What is ANSI/ADA Standard No. 108 about?
This standard gives performance requirements and test methods for amalgam separators used in connection with dental equipment in the dental treatment center. It applies to separators that operate by centrifugal, sedimentation, filtering or any combination of these separation methods to retain amalgam particles carried by the wastewater from the dental treatment center so as to reduce the mass of amalgam entering the sewage system. It also includes requirements for the safe functioning of the amalgam separator, for marking, and for instructions for use, operation and maintenance.
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Standard No. 108
What are the requirements I should know about for amalgam separators?
ANSI/ADA Standard No.108 specifies the required efficiency of the amalgam separators in terms of the level of retention of amalgam particles within the vacuum waste system. Alarm and warning requirements assure that users can properly monitor the devices to assure efficient operation and appropriate servicing when the separator reaches maximum capacity. Requirements for the collecting container size and removal assure safe and convenient servicing of the separator.
- Efficiency
At least 95% (mass fraction) - Warning system for collecting container
The warning system shall indicate the degree of filing at which the collecting container should be emptied or replaced. - Alarm system for collecting container
The alarm system shall indicate that the collecting container has reached maximum filling level as specified by the manufacturer.
What’s the bottom line?
Local wastewater regulatory requirements may require compliance with this standard as well as reporting of installation and periodic maintenance. Dentist/consumers should be aware of these local requirements and the documentation required to be in compliance. Consumers should be sure that the separator manufacturer supplies the required documentation of separator compliance with this standard. ANSI/ADA Standard No. 108, Addendum:2011, which provides clarifications and corrections regarding the test methods described in ANSI/ADA Standard No. 108, also should be consulted.