Background image

Sharps Disposal

Needles, sharps, and syringes

Diseases such as Hepatitis A and C, and HIV can be transmitted from needle sticks. Needles, syringes, and lancets (sharps) should be safely managed to prevent injury and disease transmission. Follow these simple steps for safe disposal of sharps:

Follow these simple steps for safe disposal of sharps:

  • Purchase commercially available sharps container. If purchase is not an option, container at the very least must be constructed of hard plastic (eg. laundry detergent) or metal (eg coffee can).
  • With permanent marker label container, “USED HOUSEHOLD SHARPS” “DO NOT RECYCLE”
  • Add sharps point-first into container.
  • Keep lid on at all times to prevent spills and decrease needle stick hazards.
  • Fill container as much as possible with sharps and fill with sand or kitty litter.You must be able to close container lid.
  • When full, cap container with lid and duct tape shut.
  • Place in trash

See Instructions

 

DON’T!

  • Put loose sharps in the trash 
  • Flush used needles down the toilet 
  • Place sharps in recycling cart