The Incinerator Guidebook: A Practical Guide for Selecting ... - SSWM

Whether fuel-assisted or auto-combustion, the choice of incinerator technology should be in
accordance with technical requirements of each country. Key specifications for any small-scale
incinerator model should be based upon the following:
1. Product information
Architecture
Basic architectural requirements should include:
� A minimum of two burning chambers: one to combust solids and one to combust gases.
� A temperature or visual indicator to display heat status of equipment.
� A durable refractory wall or liner capable of withstanding heat generated by waste loads
of 100% plastic.
� A stack with a minimum height of 4 meters.
The architecture of the site should also include a secure enclosure for the incinerator, an ash and
needle pit, arrangement for destruction of vials and glass syringes, a washing facility for reusable
items, and a secure storage facility for waste. If a maternity ward is located onsite, a placenta pit
may also need to be provided, if appropriate.
Performance
Any incinerator selected should:
� Operate in the range of 600°–900°C when destroying medical waste.
� Emit clear or near-to-clear (non-visible) emissions from the stack when destroying
medical waste that has been properly segregated and loaded.
� Reduce the weight of waste by 95% or more once destroyed.
Durability
Any selected incinerator should:
� Be capable of destroying medical waste where the plastic waste content is greater than
50% by weight of the total load.
� Be constructed of corrosion-resistant materials (all components stainless steel or cast
iron).
� Be simple in design and operation, with minimal electronic components.
� Have a lifespan of at least 5 years if auto-combustion type or 10 years if fuel-assisted
(when used under normal conditions).
Health centers must have access to the required technical capacity to install, maintain, repair, and
operate the system. Systems installed in remote areas should be robust and reliable. Operating costs
of systems should be considered when budgeting for procurement. If budget is not available,
systems will not be operated and waste will not be destroyed properly. Systems should be easy to
start, operate, and clean, and ash should be readily disposed of (including glass vials if mistakenly
loaded).
Manufacturer
The profile and reputation of the manufacturer or supplier is critical. The manufacturer must
support their product so that reliable and good-quality service or support can be assured in the event
of system defect or failure. Specifications should ensure that:
� Warranties and guarantees are provided for the expected life of the system.
� The terms and conditions for technical support are clearly defined.
� Training in installation, operation, and routine service is provided as an integral part of
the supply agreement.
� Maintenance and repair support is provided for a predetermined amount of time.
11