Managing laboratory biomedical waste using a large on-site autoclave–shredder

In 2002 Yale University purchased, installed, and began operating an on-site biomedical waste treatment system at its School of Medicine campus consisting of a large autoclave and shredder. The system is currently operating, and has served the University well. In this paper we describe how biomedical waste is identified, separated at the source, collected, and managed at Yale. We explain the rationale for using this system, as well as its operation, costs, and benefits to the University.