apparatus and method for processing regulated medical waste using a processing oven having multiple temperature ranges and compacting means and an oven with means for sensing and generating heat near the base of the medical waste container . temperature - calibrated thermoplastic engineered to liquefy at temperatures assuring sterilization of biological contaminants within the time frame of liquefaction and re - solidification is formed into a waste - receiving hopper capable of withstanding waste compaction pressures prior to liquefaction and compaction states are performed both before and after liquefaction . self - lidding thermoplastic containers utilize the mass of thermoplastic covers , or other forces , to consolidate the mass . a laminate is applied to the container to control plastic flow during liquefaction .