FAQs

Have some questions? We got you.

General
TE-5000
Costs
Containers
Waste
Misc
What are the dimensions and weight of the TE-5000?
The dimensions are 28”(D) x 12” (W) x 14” (H) and weighs 50 lbs. This is about the size of a business laser printer and should fit on any normal countertop.
What power source is required?

The TE-5000 comes equipped to plug into a normal 110v outlet. The unit uses about 600W of power while heating, less than a microwave oven.

Does it need to be stored behind a locked and/or labeled door?

No. Although we suggest keeping it in your current medical waste storage room, the TE-5000 can be stored anywhere in your practice.

Who is authorized to operate the TE-5000 system?

The TE-5000 is designed with simplicity in mind, so anyone is authorized to operate the unit.

What servicing requirements exist and who is responsible?

OnSite is responsible for all repairs, maintenance, and updates to the system. The smart technology was designed to communicate service levels to OnSite’s Quality Team in real-time. If for any reason the device is not operating optimally, we are alerted and can proactively address the problem. If it isn’t something we can fix remotely, we’ll ship you a new TE-5000 right away.

How does installation of the TE-5000 work?

The TE-5000 has been engineered for simplicity. Just plug it in, flip on the switch in the back, and it’s ready to begin sterilizing waste! Our team will also conduct training prior to installation and ensure your team is ready to begin processing the waste immediately.

What happens to the waste during the sterilization process?

To meet the regulatory requirements for sterilizing medical waste, the TE-5000 raises the temperature of your RMW to 350-400 degrees for about 3 hours. This ensures that all bacteria, viruses, and spores are completely destroyed.

Can tin containers be reused after sterilization in the TE-5000?

No, all of our tin containers are single use just as your current containers are today. Once the sealing lids are locked onto the containers, the waste is secured and never exposed or accessed again. Following sterilization, tin containers should be disposed of in the regular trash.

Can I continue to use my old containers in the TE-5000?

Only OnSite’s tin collection containers can be used in the TE-5000. They are uniquely designed for the TE-5000 and it’s thermal heat sterilization process. No other containers on the market can withstand the thermal heat process without melting down and ruining the TE-5000.

Is the sterilized container recyclable?

As of now, OnSite’s tin collection containers are not recyclable and should be thrown away in the regular trash.

How will my medical waste collection process change?

Our system is designed to fit seamlessly into your current collection workflow. With that said, there will be some minor adjustments.

For Sharps waste, our containers will replace your current disposable containers (that you have mounted on the walls, in the shower rooms and on the med-carts). Once full, a sealing lid is locked onto the container and the container is placed into the TE-5000 for processing, and finally disposed of in the regular trash can once the process is complete.

For Red Bag waste, you have a few options. To process your red bag waste in the TE-5000, you can collect directly into our tin containers, or collect in small red bags and seal the bags inside of the container once you are ready to process your waste. Once collection is complete, you will lock a sealing lid on top of the container and process the waste. If your facility generates larger volumes of bio-hazardous waste, OnSite can provide hauling services with low-cost transactional pricing, optimizing your spend and your environmental footprint.

Do you have a trial period in which I can see if the machine fits with my practice?

As a medical waste generator, you know that we operate in a highly regulated industry, and we take your compliance very seriously. To ensure you stay as compliant as possible, we can only send a fully functioning unit to your office, with your regulatory portal set up and the auto-replenishment program configured.

While utilizing our services, every cycle you run in the TE-5000 will be tracked and available in your portal. This makes a demo period very difficult to manage (for you and for us). However, we understand that you need to make sure the TE-5000 makes sense for you and your team. To accommodate this, we’ve developed a 90-day Return Policy that you can take advantage of while determining how the TE-5000 fits into your workflow.

How big is the TE- 5000?
The TE- 5000 is 28”L x 12”W x 14”H
How heavy is it?
The TE- 5000 weighs approximately 50 lbs
Does the TE-5000 get loud when a cycle is running?
The TE-5000 is very quiet while running a cycle. It sounds similar to the noise a laptop fan makes. You will notice the sound changing during different parts of the cycle as the fans shift from heating to cooling modes.
Does the TE- 5000 make the room hot while running a cycle?
No, the TE- 5000 is not hot to touch during the heating process.
Do you need to purchase a special plug to use the TE- 5000?
No, the TE- 5000 works with your standard wall outlet.
How much will my electricity bill increase from using the TE- 5000?
The TE-5000 draws about 600 Watts for about 90 minutes of its 2 hour cycle. This is similar to leaving a 60-Watt lightbulb on during work.
How long is a cycle?
Each cycle will run for 120 mins and then cool down to 100°. Depending on where you put the TE-5000, the cooldown can take between 30 and 60 minutes.
What is the clear plastic container located in the front of the TE- 5000?
This container collects condensation from the steam produced while heating up the waste. It is a byproduct of the heating cycle, it is sterile and safe to empty into a sink.
What happens if I select the wrong waste type?
Both Red Bag and Sharp waste are processed the same. However, the TE-5000 keeps track of how many of each container you have left. This may affect your auto-refill order. Please send an email to service@onsitewaste.com or call us at (949) 409-4031 if this happens.

Also, please note that you can change the cycle type anytime before the cycle starts by simply pressing the correct button (Sharps or Red Bag). The lid will pop open. Just shut it and the unit will be ready to run.

Can you run the TE- 5000 when no one is in the office?
Yes, In fact, unless you process more than 1 container a day, we recommend running the TE-5000 after hours.

The most recent versions of the firmware default to a "Delayed Start" mode where the unit runs automatically at 7 or 8pm at night. If your unit doesn't do this, please let us know so we can get your unit on the most recent firmware!

Do we have to purchase any other parts?
No, all parts to use your new TE-5000 will be shipped together. Remember that you will have to buy additional containers to collect Sharps and Red Bag waste.
Is shipping included in the monthly lease price?
Each of our customers use their containers at a different rate. Some use 1 or 2 containers a month, while others use 1 or 2 a day. Because of these differences, we chose to lower our monthly rate and charge each customer for the containers and shipping costs based on their use. This is just part of our commitment to transparency and openness in our pricing.
Are containers included with my TE-5000?
Containers are separate, but can be ordered at any time. The TE-5000 comes with technology that allows us to keep track of your usage and automatically replenishment your supply of containers when needed. It’s our goal to make sure that you will never run out of containers.

You can also call us anytime at (949) 409-4031 to order additional containers.

Will costs vary based on the number of cycles we run?
No! OnSite is committed to fair and transparent pricing. Your monthly cost for the TE-5000 will be the same for the life of your agreement regardless of how many times you use it. We won’t adjust your prices due to usage, we won’t increase your price annually, and we won’t try to stick you with other gotcha charges.
Why is my invoice more than the monthly negotiated cost?
There are a couple simple reasons why your invoice might be different than your monthly rate.

If you live in a state where we charge Sales Tax, some of the line items on your invoice will have Sales Tax added.

As you discussed with your Sales Rep and saw on your order form, your initial invoice will include a one time setup fee along with an order of containers. When you order more containers, or when your TE-5000 lets us know that you’re running low, we will send you more. The charges for any containers we ship will show up on your next monthly invoice.

How long can I keep my TE-5000?
Our standard terms are 3 and 5 years. However, we want to make sure your agreement fits your needs perfectly. Let us know what works best for you and we'll do our best to make that happen! Almost all of our customers have opted for 5 years to make sure that they are locked into our low pricing for as long as possible.
Are the containers reusable?
Our containers are one-time use. They should be thrown directly into the trash once the cycle has been completed.

How many containers do I get at a time?
Our containers ship in boxes of 20. We can ship as many boxes as you need. If you're not sure, please call (949) 409-4031 or email us at service@onsitewaste.com so we can help you figure out your volumes.
How do I reorder containers?
Everytime a cycle is run on your device, your TE-5000 lets us know that you've used a container. Once you're down to your reorder point, we will automatically send you more containers. The reorder point will be determined by your location's needs and volume of waste produced and will be set at the time of your first shipment. We may adjust your reorder point from time to time to reduce the number of container shipments.

You can also call (949) 409-4031 or email us at service@onsitewaste.com any time to order additional containers.

What do I do with my current unused plastic containers? Can these be put in the TE-5000?
Only the metal containers provided by OnSite Waste Technologies can be used in the TE-5000. Plastic containers will melt if put in the device. Please don't do that!
Can I open the containers when they're done being processed?
Once the lid has been secured on the container, it cannot be removed. Please don't try. Once your cycle is done running, the entire container, including the lid, will be thrown in the trash.
What happens to the biohazard sticker on the containers?
Once a cycle is complete, the biohazard sticker will turn black. You will no longer see the words “biohazardous waste” and the container can be thrown into the trash.
Do I put the red bags directly into the container or does the container replace the need to have a red bag?
Red bag waste can be disposed of directly into our containers. There is no need for a separate red bag.
What kinds of waste can the TE-5000 process?
The TE-5000 is designed to treat standard Red Bag and Sharp waste
Can the TE-5000 handle fat or other biological waste?
No, the TE- 5000 can only treat sharps and red bag waste. However, we have many cost effective solutions for all of your medical waste needs. Contact us at service@onsitewaste.com to receive a quote.
Can the TE-5000 process pathological waste?
No, the TE- 5000 can only treat Sharp and Red Bag waste. However, we have many cost effective solutions for all of your medical waste needs. Contact us at service@onsitewaste.com to receive a quote.
When will I receive my device?
Once the agreement is signed, you will receive an email with the tracking information of your TE- 5000 and container shipment.
Does this follow OSHA guidelines?
Yes, the TE-5000 meets all OSHA guidelines and meets the waste processing guidelines in all 50 states as a solution to your Sharp and Red Bag medical waste. Please note that we are still working through the approval process in NY and NJ, so you can't use the TE-5000 there yet.
Can I keep the device at the end of my term?
There is an option to renew your lease at the end of your agreement. We do not sell the TE-5000; they are only available to lease.
Can I purchase the device?
Because the TE-5000 only works as a connected device, it is only available for lease, not for purchase.
What happens if there’s a power outage or emergency event (fire, etc)?"
The TE-5000 has a number of safety mechanisms built in. Once the TE-5000 is locked and processing, the unit will remain locked until the cycle is complete. If power goes out or the cord is unplugged, the unit will restart immediately upon resumption of power. It will reheat and resume the cycle.
What happens if the device breaks?
Maintenance is included in your lease. OnSite Waste Technologies will replace and repair devices as needed.