Treating your own medical waste is as easy as pushing a button.
The “ON” switch is located on the back of the machine. Flip the switch and give the machine about 30 seconds to power on and connect to our network. 30-60 seconds later, you will hear a beep and the screen will indicate that you are ready to start processing waste.
Grab the full container that is ready for sterilization and one of the locking lids. Press the lid firmly on top of the container, ensuring all 6 tabs are snapped in. Once the lid is locked in, it should not be opened again for safety and compliance purposes.
Next, select Sharps or Red Bag on the TE-5000, depending on the type of waste you are processing. You will hear the machine pop open. Insert your full container of Sharps or Red Bag waste into the machine.
Once you close the machine, it will not open again until the sterilization cycle is complete and the container is cooled down. The “Delayed Start” feature is activated automatically and the machine will run at 8pm. You can also customize your Delayed Start time by contacting OnSite. This is recommended for most practices.
If you’d like to run it immediately, simply push the “START” button and the cycle will begin.
Sterilization cycles typically last 3 hours. This is recommended for high volume practices.
Once the cycle is complete, the TE-5000 will automatically pop open. Pull the container out and ensure that the label has darkened. This means the waste has been successfully sterilized. This is also a great indicator to ensure that you are only throwing away containers that have been sterilized.
Now you can toss the full container, with the lid attached, in any regular trash can!*
*Some states may have additional requirements. Always familiarize yourself with all state and local regulations.