Environmental FAQ
How should i-gel be disposed of?
After use, the i-gel should be disposed of by the appropriate means that have been set out by the hospital or the relevant health authority. If the i-gel is classed as clinical waste after use, the Health Services Advisory Committee of the Health and Safety Commission (Great Britain) advises that disposal should be by means of incineration.
At what temperature should i-gel be incinerated at?
The most appropriate temperature for correct (and complete) incineration is between 900 and 1200 degrees centigrade.
Does i-gel contain or release any dioxins into the environment when incinerated?
No.
What chemical residues are there when i-gel is incinerated?
If i-gel is incinerated properly, then in general, only carbon dioxide and water vapours are released.
Can i-gel be put into landfill?
Yes, but only if it is not contaminated and is classed as municipal waste.
How long would the product take to degrade in landfill?
This would depend on the type of landfill as some landfills allow more air to enter, which speeds up the material degradation.
Does i-gel contain any PVC?
No.
How can you dispose of the i-gel protective cradle?
The protective cradle should be recycled. However, if recycling facilities are not available, then, providing it has not been contaminated, it can be disposed of as normal municipal waste.
Is it possible to be allergic to any of the materials contained in i-gel?
The i-gel is made from ABS and TPE, neither of which are considered to be allergens. These materials have been tested for biocompatibility in accordance with ISO 10993.
Does i-gel contain any known carcinogens?
No.
Are there any environmental benefits to using i-gel compared to a disposable PVC Laryngeal Mask?
Yes. i-gel does not contain PVC, so when incinerated it will produce non hazardous emissions, such as carbon dioxide and water vapour. Incineration of PVC may produce carbon dioxide, water vapour, hydrogen chloride, heavy metals and dioxins.
