A buyer’s guide to selecting autoclaves manufactured in India (PATH/USAID)

There is a growing interest, globally, in more sustainable non-incineration approaches to treatment of medical waste. However, currently there is very little information on practical alternatives for treating medical waste in low resource settings. In this guide PATH has gathered information from manufacturers of small-scale Indian autoclaves as one option for treatment of medical waste. India was chosen as the focus country for the guide because of its large number of manufacturers of lower-cost, small-scale autoclaves.
Autoclaves can offer a safe, affordable means for sterilizing some medical waste, including highly infectious sharps waste. This booklet is intended to provide a starting point for managers interested in learning more about autoclaves and to aid in decision- making for purchase of medical waste autoclaves.
It includes issues to consider when purchasing an autoclave, technical specifications of some devices, and a list of Indian manufacturers of autoclaves with current contact information. The information is based on desk research and has not been verified through bench testing or field evaluation. For further guidance on deciding whether an autoclave is appropriate for waste treatment in your setting, refer to the references listed at the end of this guide.