What method is used for the treatment of infectious waste?

The treatment of infectious waste is primarily conducted through methods that ensure safe and effective disposal, minimizing the risk of spreading pathogens. Incineration or the application of heat, chemicals, or radiation plays a crucial role in this process.

Incineration is one of the most commonly used methods for the disposal of infectious waste, as it effectively reduces waste volume and destroys harmful organisms at high temperatures, converting the waste into ash, gas, and heat. This method is favored because it significantly lowers the risk of contamination and eliminates the threat posed by infectious agents.

Additionally, activating heat methods such as autoclaving use steam under pressure to kill bacteria and viruses. Chemical treatments involve disinfectants which break down pathogens, while radiation can sterilize materials by damaging their DNA. All these methods ensure that any waste containing infectious material is treated safely before disposal, protecting public health and the environment.

The other options, while relevant in waste management, do not provide the necessary safeguards for treating infectious waste. For example, recycling is inappropriate as it may expose recyclable materials to pathogens. Landfilling also poses risks, as it does not fully eliminate the potential for disease transmission. Similarly, composting is unsuitable for infectious waste due to the inability to achieve the necessary temperatures and conditions to