Disposal of syringes, needles and lancets is regulated. These items are called “sharps.” They can carry hepatitis, HIV and other germs that cause disease. Tossing them into the trash or flushing them down the toilet can pose health risks for others. Regulations governing disposal of sharps protect garbage and other utility workers and the general public from needle sticks and illness.

There are different rules and disposal options for different circumstances. The main difference is between sharps that are used in a business and those that are used in the home for personal reasons. And, for home users, it makes a difference whether you live in the city, the best way is "Always place used sharps and syringes in a safe container. This can be a manufactured sharps container". When you use medical sharps container make sure the lid fits tightly. Then tape it shut for added safety.

Sharps Containers Safety Features

In general, sharps containers used for discarding contaminated needles must be closable, puncture-resistant, leakproof on the sides and bottom, and appropriately labeled or color coded (1910.1030(d)(4) (iii)(A)(1)). Additionally, the Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (1910.1030) prohibits needle removal unless the employer can demonstrate that no alternative is feasible or that such action is required by a specific medical procedure. Needle removal must be accomplished through the use of a mechanical device or a properly performed one-handed technique (1910.1030(d)(2)(vii)(B)). Sharps disposal container which have well designed unwinders may be used.

Sharps Containers Should Consider the Following Safety Features:

1. The sharps container should be designed so that it is easily and safely determined when the container needs to be emptied; this avoids overfilling and reduces the risk of injury.

2. The sharps container (usually also called medical sharps container) with an unwinder should be stabilized (secured to a wall, table, or tray) to prevent slipping during use.

3. The design of the unwinder must allow the employee to use the unwinder with a one-handed technique; that is, the employee must not be required to secure the needle with one hand while it is being unwound by the other hand.

4. The unwinder should be designed so that the needles do not slip or slide within the unwinder during the needle removal process; the unwinder should provide a secure capture that prevents movement of the needle while it is removed.

Sharps Container Shield for PET

The Sharps Container Shield for PET is a simple, safe and convenient solution for disposal of syringes that have been contaminated with high-energy radionuclides. The shield is constructed of steel and lined with 1" thick (2.5 cm) lead.

The shield is designed to be used with 039-414 two quart sharps containers. It features a lockable sliding cover for container removal and a hinged top door for syringe disposal.

The shield can stand independently or can be recessed into a cabinet or countertop.