Medical Sharps and Needle Disposal

When it comes to disposing of “sharps” we’ll get right to the point.  Medical needles, syringes, lancets and auto injectors are all considered to be “sharps” and must be disposed of properly.  When sharps are just loosely thrown into the garbage, they pose a potential risk of injury and could be a major health hazard to garbage collectors. Sharps should never be disposed of in household recycling carts.

There are options available for proper sharps disposal including exchange programs, mail-in services and community services.

Exchange Programs

Many local health care providers, medical supply companies and pharmacies offer programs that allow you to trade used needles for new ones.  In turn, they will carefully dispose of the used needles.

Mail-in Programs

Mail-in programs will provide a safe container for all sharps.  Once full, these containers can be mailed back in the provided packaging.  There may be a cost associated with this service.

Community Services

Some communities offer services such as drop-off sites or household hazardous waste events.  Check with your village to find out if these services are available.

If none of these services fit your needs, sharps may be placed in your regular household garbage container as long as they are properly prepared. (Never place sharps/needles in your recycling container.)

  • Sharps should be placed in heavy-duty plastic containers (like a laundry detergent bottle)

  • Containers should be leak proof and puncture resistant

  • Lids should be taped on with strong utility tape

  • Containers must be labeled to indicate sharps are inside

  • These instructions are for placing sharps in garbage containers. Again, sharps and needles can never be placed within a recycling container.

Together, we can reduce the risk for injury to sanitation workers by properly disposing of these and other potentially dangerous material. Click below for a helpful guide on proper disposal of other hard to handle items.

Learn More About Other Hard to Handle Waste

Hard to Handle Waste
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