Guidelines for the Storage of Essential Medicines and Other Health ...

kill microorganisms. Given these shortcomings, low-temperatureburning should be used only as a short-term solution.Burn and bury: Pit burning is a low-cost but relatively ineffectivemeans of waste disposal. A fence should surround the pitto prevent children, animals, and others from coming intocontact with the waste. The pit location should avoid walkingpaths (high-traffic areas). The fire, usually started with apetroleum-based fuel and allowed to burn, should be supervisedby designated staff and located down-wind of the facility andresidential areas. The low-temperature fire emits pollutants,and the ash and remaining material should be covered with10–15 cm of dirt.Other methods: In addition to the common methods, othermethods are used in some settings, including needle removal/needle destruction, melting syringes, steam sterilization(autoclaving and hydroclaving), and microwaving (withshredding).Managing health care waste is a comprehensive programthat requires support at all levels of the health care system.Staff involved in health care waste management must begiven training and support.88