A sharps container is a specialized container designed to safely dispose of medical and laboratory sharp instruments, such as needles, lancets, and scalpels. These containers are made of durable materials that can resist punctures and leaks, and they are essential in preventing the spread of diseases and injuries caused by accidental exposure to sharps waste.

Proper disposal of sharps waste is crucial to protect public health and the environment. Improper disposal can lead to serious health risks, such as the spread of infectious diseases and exposure to harmful chemicals. In addition, sharps waste can cause injuries to waste handlers and anyone who comes in contact with it.

Our goal with this article is to provide a comprehensive guide on sharps waste disposal, including best practices for handling, storing, and disposing of sharps waste. This guide will cover the regulations and standards for sharps waste management, proper selection and use of sharps containers, safe handling and disposal techniques, employee training and workplace safety, cost-effective disposal options, and environmentally-friendly practices. 

By following the guidelines in this article, individuals and organizations can ensure the safe and efficient management of sharps waste and minimize the risk of harm to themselves and others.

What is Sharps Waste?

Sharps waste refers to any item that can pierce, puncture, or lacerate the skin and has the potential to cause injury or transmit disease. These items include needles, syringes, lancets, scalpels, glass slides, broken glass, and other medical or laboratory equipment. 

Sharps waste can be generated in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, laboratories, pharmacies, veterinary clinics, and households. Medical sharps waste is the most common type of sharps waste and includes items such as insulin syringes, blood collection needles, and infusion sets. 

Types of Sharps Waste

There are three main types of sharps waste, each with its unique characteristics and disposal requirements. 

The first type is medical sharps waste, which includes sharp instruments used in clinical or medical settings. The second type is laboratory sharps waste, which includes sharp objects used in laboratory settings for the collection, testing, and analysis of blood, tissues, and other specimens. The third type is home-use sharps waste, which is generated by individuals who self-administer medications or perform medical procedures at home.

Proper disposal of sharps waste is essential to protect public health and the environment. It helps prevent accidental injuries and the spread of infectious diseases. By understanding how to properly dispose of sharps waste, individuals and organizations can help keep themselves and their communities safe.

Medical Sharps Waste

This type of sharps waste includes needles, syringes, lancets, infusion sets, scalpels, and other medical instruments that are used in clinical or medical settings. Medical sharps waste is often contaminated with blood or other bodily fluids, which can potentially transmit infectious diseases.

Laboratory Sharps Waste

Laboratory sharps waste includes needles, syringes, and other sharp objects used in laboratory settings for the collection, testing, and analysis of blood, tissues, and other specimens. Laboratory sharps waste may contain hazardous chemicals or radioactive materials, making proper disposal critical for safety.

Home-Use Sharps Waste

This type of sharps waste is generated by individuals who self-administer medications or perform medical procedures at home, such as those with diabetes who use insulin injections, people who require regular injections for allergies or other medical conditions, and individuals who administer injections to pets. Home-use sharps waste can also include personal care items, such as razor blades and lancets used for blood glucose monitoring.

Sharps Waste Regulations and Standards

Proper disposal of sharps waste is critical to protect public health and the environment. To ensure safe and efficient management of sharps waste, various regulations and standards have been established at the federal, state, and local levels. 

These regulations provide guidance on the proper handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of sharps waste, as well as the design and use of sharps containers. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory and failure to follow them can result in fines, penalties, and legal action. 

There are rules about medical waste from various government agencies: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In the United States, the FDA is in charge of making rules about sharps containers. It is suggested that hospitals and people who use needles at home follow the FDA’s rules for sharps containers.

Sharps containers that have been approved by the FDA should be made of hard plastic and have a line on them that shows when they are full. Most of the time, they are yellow and have a bright red sticker that says “biohazard.” You can get these from pharmacies, health care workers, and companies that sell medical supplies. Sharps bins come in a lot of different shapes and sizes, including small ones that can be taken on trips or used outside the home.

Even though hospitals should always have sharps containers that have been approved by the FDA, these containers aren’t always easy to find for use at home. In this case, you can use a heavy-duty plastic bottle you may already have around the house. Each sharps container should have a lid that fits tightly, can’t be punctured, doesn’t leak, and stays straight while being used. One example is a bottle of cleaning detergent made of plastic.

OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has established guidelines for sharps waste disposal to protect workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other hazardous materials. These guidelines cover the proper handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of sharps waste.

Some of the key OSHA guidelines for sharps waste disposal include:

• Using appropriate sharps containers: Sharps waste should be disposed of in puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and labeled sharps containers that are designed specifically for sharps waste. Containers should be closable and maintained upright throughout use.
• Properly storing and transporting sharps containers: Sharps containers should be stored in designated areas that are easily accessible to workers but inaccessible to the public. Containers should be transported to the disposal site in a manner that prevents punctures or spills.
• Avoiding overfilling of sharps containers: Sharps containers should not be overfilled or filled beyond the designated fill line. Overfilled containers can cause punctures or spills and increase the risk of injury.
• Immediately disposing of sharps containers: Sharps containers should be disposed of promptly once they are full or have reached their designated disposal date. Disposal should be done in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Providing training and education to employees: Employers should provide training to employees on proper sharps waste disposal procedures and ensure that employees have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling sharps waste.

Local and State Laws Governing Sharps Disposal

State environmental and health offices are predominantly in charge of regulating medical waste. Before getting rid of medical trash, you should get in touch with your state’s environmental program. Contact the state agency for environmental protection and the state agency for health to find out more about your state’s rules on medical waste.

Proper Sharps Container Selection

Proper selection of sharps containers is essential to ensure the safe and efficient management of sharps waste. The right container will minimize the risk of injury and exposure to infectious materials and promote safe and efficient sharps waste management practices.

The following are some important characteristics to consider when selecting a sharps container:

Characteristics of an Appropriate Sharps Container

• Puncture resistance: Sharps containers should be puncture-resistant and durable to prevent punctures or tears that could lead to spills or exposure to infectious materials.
• Leak-proof: Sharps containers should be leak-proof to prevent leakage of infectious materials that could cause harm.
• Size and capacity: The size and capacity of the sharps container should be appropriate for the amount and type of sharps waste generated. Overfilled containers can increase the risk of injury and spills.
• Accessibility: Sharps containers should be easily accessible to workers but not accessible to the public. This helps prevent accidental injury or exposure to infectious materials.
• Closure mechanism: Sharps containers should have a secure closure mechanism to prevent accidental opening and exposure to infectious materials.
• Color-coded: Sharps containers should be color-coded and labeled with the universal biohazard symbol to distinguish them from other waste containers.
• Compatibility: Sharps containers should be compatible with the waste disposal process in use. For example, some containers are designed for disposal through incineration while others are intended for autoclaving.

Types of Sharps Containers

There are two main types of sharps containers: reusable containers and disposable containers. Both types of sharps containers should be puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and labeled with the universal biohazard symbol. 

The choice of sharps container type will depend on the amount and type of sharps waste generated and the disposal process in use. Both reusable and disposable sharps containers are available in different sizes and capacities to accommodate various amounts of sharps waste.

It is important to select the appropriate sharps container and follow proper disposal procedures to minimize the risk of injury or exposure to infectious materials.

Reusable Containers

Reusable sharps containers are made of durable materials such as metal or hard plastic and can be emptied, cleaned, and reused. These containers are often used in healthcare facilities or other settings that generate large amounts of sharps waste. 

Disposable Containers

Disposable sharps containers are made of plastic and are intended for one-time use. These containers are often used in home healthcare settings or other settings where smaller amounts of sharps waste are generated. After being filled, disposable sharps containers should be securely closed and disposed of according to local, state, and federal regulations.

Size and Capacity Considerations

When selecting sharps containers, size and capacity are important considerations. The size and capacity of the sharps container should be appropriate for the amount of sharps waste generated. If too small of a container is used, it may become overfilled and increase the risk of injuries or spills. On the other hand, if the container is too large, it may take up unnecessary space and be more expensive.

Sharps containers should be emptied and disposed of once they are full or have reached their designated disposal date. The frequency of disposal should be considered when selecting the appropriate size and capacity of the sharps container.

The size and capacity of the sharps container should be appropriate for the type of sharps waste generated and for the disposal process. For example, needles and syringes may require smaller sharps containers, while larger containers may be needed for larger medical instruments.

Handling and Disposing of Sharps Waste

Proper handling and disposal of sharps waste is crucial to protect public health and the environment. The best practices for handling and disposing of sharps waste, including proper storage, transportation, and disposal methods. 

Proper Handling Techniques

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers who handle sharps waste should wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves, eye protection, and gowns or aprons, to prevent exposure to infectious materials.
• Avoid recapping needles: Recapping needles increases the risk of needlestick injuries and should be avoided whenever possible.
• Do not bend, break or manipulate sharps waste: Sharps waste should not be bent, broken, or manipulated in any way as this increases the risk of injury and exposure to infectious materials.
• Place sharps waste immediately in sharps containers: Sharps waste should be placed immediately in a sharps container after use to prevent injury and reduce the risk of exposure to infectious materials.
• Close sharps containers securely: Sharps containers should be closed securely after use to prevent accidental opening and exposure to infectious materials.
• Avoid overfilling sharps containers: Sharps containers should not be overfilled or filled beyond the designated fill line. Overfilled containers can cause punctures or spills and increase the risk of injury.
• Transport sharps containers safely: Sharps containers should be transported in a manner that prevents punctures or spills.

Disposing of Sharps Waste in Healthcare Facilities

• Use appropriate sharps containers: Sharps waste should be disposed of in puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and labeled sharps containers that are designed specifically for sharps waste. Containers should be closable and maintained upright throughout use.
• Do not overfill sharps containers: Sharps containers should not be overfilled or filled beyond the designated fill line. Overfilled containers can cause punctures or spills and increase the risk of injury.
• Close sharps containers securely: Sharps containers should be closed securely after use to prevent accidental opening and exposure to infectious materials.
• Do not dispose of sharps waste in regular trash: Sharps waste should not be disposed of in regular trash or recycling bins. Instead, sharps waste should be disposed of at facilities that are authorized to handle infectious waste, such as medical waste incinerators, transfer stations, or landfills.
• Train and educate employees on proper disposal procedures: Employers should provide training to employees on proper sharps waste disposal procedures and ensure that employees have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling sharps waste.
• Maintain records of sharps waste disposal: Healthcare facilities should maintain records of the quantity, type, and method of sharps waste disposal.

Disposing of Sharps Waste at Home

• Use appropriate sharps containers: Sharps waste should be disposed of in puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and labeled sharps containers that are designed specifically for sharps waste. Containers should be closable and maintained upright throughout use.
• Do not overfill sharps containers: Sharps containers should not be overfilled or filled beyond the designated fill line. Overfilled containers can cause punctures or spills and increase the risk of injury.
• Close sharps containers securely: Sharps containers should be closed securely after use to prevent accidental opening and exposure to infectious materials.
• Do not dispose of sharps waste in regular trash: Sharps waste should not be disposed of in regular trash or recycling bins. Instead, sharps waste should be disposed of at designated collection sites or facilities.
• Check local regulations: It is important to check local regulations regarding sharps waste disposal as they may vary depending on the location.
• Store sharps containers safely: Sharps containers should be stored in a secure location that is out of reach of children and pets.

Community Sharps Disposal Programs

Community sharps disposal programs provide safe and convenient methods for the disposal of sharps waste generated by individuals in the community. These programs are typically sponsored by local governments, healthcare facilities, or waste management companies.

Community sharps disposal programs may offer the following disposal options:

• Drop-off locations: Drop-off locations may be located at pharmacies, healthcare facilities, or waste management facilities. These locations may provide sharps containers for individuals to dispose of their sharps waste.

• Mail-back programs: Mail-back programs provide individuals with pre-addressed and prepaid sharps containers that can be mailed back for safe disposal.

• Household hazardous waste collections: Some communities may have designated household hazardous waste collections that include sharps waste disposal.

Community sharps disposal programs may have specific guidelines for the types of sharps waste accepted, the types of containers used, and the disposal process. 

Employee Training and Workplace Safety

Employee training and overall workplace safety when handing sharps waste is critical. If sharps waste is not handled and disposed of properly, it can be hazardous and expose workers to serious health risks.

Sharps waste can cause needlestick injuries that can transmit infectious diseases. Proper training on safe handling and disposal of sharps waste can minimize the risk of needlestick injuries and protect workers from infection.

Employers are required to comply with local, state, and federal regulations regarding sharps waste disposal. Employee training on the regulations and proper disposal procedures can ensure compliance and avoid any potential health or legal consequences.

Improper disposal of sharps waste can also harm the environment by polluting water, soil, and air. Proper employee training on safe handling and disposal of sharps waste can minimize the risk of environmental contamination.

Workplace injuries and illnesses can result in lost productivity and increased costs. Proper employee training on sharps waste disposal can reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses, which can lead to cost savings for the employer.

Employers should provide regular training on proper sharps waste disposal procedures and ensure that employees have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling sharps waste. By promoting a culture of safety and compliance, employers can protect the health of workers and the public and minimize the risk of environmental contamination.

Elements of an Effective Sharps Waste Disposal Training Program

An effective sharps waste disposal training program should cover the following elements:

• Regulations and guidelines: The training program should cover local, state, and federal regulations and guidelines for the safe handling and disposal of sharps waste. This should include information on appropriate containers, labeling requirements, and transportation regulations.
• Risks and hazards: The training program should cover the risks and hazards associated with sharps waste, including the risk of needlestick injuries and exposure to infectious materials.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): The training program should cover the appropriate use of PPE, including gloves, eye protection, and gowns or aprons, when handling sharps waste.
• Handling and disposal procedures: The training program should cover proper handling and disposal procedures for sharps waste, including the use of appropriate sharps containers, the frequency of disposal, and the proper method of transport.
• Emergency procedures: The training program should cover emergency procedures in the event of a sharps-related injury or exposure to infectious materials.
• Record keeping: The training program should cover the importance of record keeping, including maintaining records of the quantity, type, and method of sharps waste disposal.
• Evaluation and feedback: The training program should include an evaluation component to assess the effectiveness of the training program and provide feedback for improvement.

By covering these elements, an effective sharps waste disposal training program can help ensure the safe and efficient management of sharps waste, protect workers and the public from injury and exposure to infectious materials, and comply with local, state, and federal regulations. The program should be tailored to the specific needs of the organization and regularly reviewed and updated to reflect any changes in regulations or best practices.

Sharps Waste Disposal Costs and Services

The costs and services of sharps waste disposal can vary depending on the quantity, type, and frequency of waste generated, as well as the location and type of disposal facility. It is important to start with a waste audit to gain a complete understanding of where you business currently stands and where you could improve. 

Cost Factors 

• The quantity and type of sharps waste generated can affect the cost and type of disposal service required. For example, a healthcare facility that generates large volumes of sharps waste may require a larger sharps container and more frequent disposal, resulting in higher costs.
• The frequency of sharps waste disposal can affect the cost of disposal services. More frequent disposal may result in higher costs.
• Transportation costs can affect sharps waste disposal costs, particularly for facilities located in remote areas or for mail-back programs.
• The type of disposal facility used, such as a medical waste incinerator or landfill, can affect the cost of sharps waste disposal.
• Compliance with local, state, and federal regulations can affect the cost of sharps waste disposal, particularly for facilities that require specialized permits or licenses.

Conclusion

Sharps waste management is critical for businesses that generate sharps waste, such as healthcare facilities, research laboratories, and other industries. Improper management of sharps waste can result in serious injury or exposure to infectious materials, harm to the environment, and legal and financial consequences.

To effectively manage sharps waste, businesses should understand the regulations and guidelines that govern its disposal, select appropriate containers, follow proper handling and disposal procedures, and provide employee training and workplace safety measures. Businesses can also consider cost-saving measures, such as reducing waste generation, evaluating container usage, and comparing prices for disposal services.

To take action towards reducing their sharps waste removal costs, businesses can start by evaluating their sharps waste management procedures and implementing cost-saving measures. This includes reducing waste generation, evaluating container usage, and comparing prices for disposal services. By taking proactive steps towards reducing sharps waste and managing it safely and efficiently, businesses can protect the health of their workers and the public, avoid legal and financial consequences, and promote a culture of safety and compliance.

Therefore, it is essential for businesses to take action towards managing their sharps waste effectively and efficiently. By doing so, they can ensure compliance with regulations, minimize the risk of injury and exposure to infectious materials, protect the environment, and reduce their sharps waste removal costs.