Alltrace, in collaboration with waste processor Renewi, has developed an advanced IoT weighing solution for the Santeon group, specifically aimed at optimizing the management of Medical Hazardous Waste (MHW). This innovative solution combines smart weighing scales with photo monitoring to improve the handling of this costly and environmentally burdensome waste stream.
Smart Management of Medical Hazardous Waste (MHW) Streams
MHW requires a specialized and costly processing method, as it must be disposed of in dedicated incineration facilities. It is therefore crucial that only the correct waste is included in this stream. The solution developed by Alltrace consists of an advanced system that both weighs and photographs each waste deposit. Initially, these photos serve as a basis for raising awareness and providing feedback on waste separation; users can review the photos to assess whether waste separation can be improved.
At a later stage, these images may be used in combination with artificial intelligence to recognize whether only MHW materials are being deposited.
User Feedback and Cost Control
The system provides feedback to users from within a closed container, helping to prevent improper waste separation. This preventive approach not only contributes to cost savings but also has a positive environmental impact by ensuring more efficient processing.
Beyond awareness in phase one, the system also analyzes weight distribution—determining the proportion of various waste streams by weight. This is particularly important for waste types that sometimes belong to MHW and sometimes do not, making it impossible to determine the ratio based on procurement alone. Additionally, for waste such as suction canisters, the contents are more decisive for weight than the container itself.
A Broader Smart Platform for Waste Management
In addition to the MHW-specific solution, Alltrace offers a comprehensive platform for waste management in the healthcare sector, featuring:
Automatic monitoring of fill levels in various waste containers
Specific detection of unauthorized items, such as wireless scan heads
Immediate alerts for unauthorized disposals
Automatic task generation for container replacement or emptying
IoT Benefits for the Healthcare Sector
This integrated approach offers several advantages:
Cost reduction through proper waste separation
Increased efficiency in waste processing
Improved compliance with environmental regulations
Prevention of loss of valuable medical materials
Real-time insight into waste streams and costs
Future Prospects
The combination of smart IoT technology, AI monitoring, and automated waste management sets a new standard in the healthcare sector. The system is currently undergoing extensive testing in the Santeon hospitals Maasstad and St. Antonius, contributing to increased awareness, cost control, and sustainability. This innovative approach demonstrates how smart technology can optimize critical processes in healthcare.
About Santeon
Santeon is a collaboration of seven top clinical hospitals in the Netherlands, established in 2007. The goal of this partnership is to continuously improve healthcare by promoting transparency and sharing knowledge and experiences. The member hospitals are:
Catharina Hospital
Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital
Maasstad Hospital
Martini Hospital
Medisch Spectrum Twente
OLVG
St. Antonius Hospital
Within Santeon, the "Samen Beter" (Better Together) program is central, where professionals systematically compare treatments and outcomes to reduce variation and enhance the quality of care.