Table of Contents

1. How does it work?
2. How does it sterilize?
3. How many needles can be destroyed before the battery is low?
4. Is the Q103 safe?
5. What is the recommended disposal method for the battery?
6. What size needles will the Q 103 accept?
7. Is the Q103 portable?
8. Will waste handlers accept syringes without needles?

By using low voltage, direct current (DC) from nicad batteries, the Q103 melts a small portion of the 308 stainless steel needle at the hub of the syringe, then severs the needle from the syringe.

The heat generated (2,450° F) during the melting of the stainless steel travels the length of the ½" needle and to the remaining portion at the hub of the syringe.  This temperature is more than sufficient to sterilize the remains.

The storage batteries can hold sufficient current to dispose of at least 40 needles between charging.

Yes, the Q103's direct current (DC) requirements cannot be felt by the operator's bare hands even when submerged under water.  However, this is not recommended at any time.

The battery should be removed from the unit and disposed of according to local battery disposal regulations.

The Q103 is designed to dispose of 28 gauge needles or smaller.  Larger needles can be accommodated by the Q104.

Portability was a design prerequisite, because many diabetics administer themselves throughout the day from a variety of locales.

In most communities, homes, self-administrated patients are asked to place their used syringes in a milk bottle or container that has a cap and is puncture resistant.

In some communities the patients are required to bring a container provided by the doctor, clinic or hospital back to their facility for disposal.

Our investigation has indicated diabetics' syringes without needles can be disposed of in ordinary household waste.

We believe that, with the threat of accidental needle sticks removed, most communities will allow the syringes without needles to be disposed of in regular waste collection.

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