AutoSaving: Increasing safety and efficiency of autoclaves and water distillation units at Dalhousie

Abstract

This report explores efficiency and usage patterns of autoclaves and water distillation units on campus. Preliminary research into water distillation is provided, offering insight into users’ perspectives on efficiency strategies and creating a solid base for future study. A multi-faceted analysis of autoclave use on campus was used to create a robust cost-benefit analysis to evaluated a proposal put forward by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety to increase efficiency and improve biowaste safety by centralizing waste neutralization. In addition, usage patterns and user suggestions were incorporated to create several additional recommendations. The benefits of the proposal presented by Raymond Ilson of the Office of Environmental Health and Safety are numerous; increased safety, reduced water consumption, reduced energy consumption, strengthening Dalhousie’s reputation as a sustainability leader and providing significant financial return within a payback period of about 7 years.