How to safely dispose of sharps
“If you don’t think it is safe, it probably isn’t.”
Always consider these aspects
Sharps containers should be stored above knee level and below shoulder level. Do not place them on the floor, windowsills or above shoulder level.[1]
Take a sharps box whenever possible to the point of use so that any sharps can be disposed of immediately.[2]
Place contaminated sharps in disposal containers approved to EN ISO 23907, immediately after use.[1]
Do not try to retrieve items from a sharps container.[1]
Do not try to press sharps down to make more room.[1]
Do not use makeshift containers, e.g. drinks cans, bottles, cardboard boxes, for sharps disposal. They may find their way into domestic waste, presenting a hazard to refuse workers and members of the public.[1]
Ensure sharps boxes are correctly assembled and the identification label on the box is signed by the person assembling it.[2]
Ensure that the lid is closed in the correct manner for that container and the identification record on the box is completed.[2]
Lock the container when it is threequarters full using the irreversible closure mechanism.[1]
Place damaged sharps containers inside a larger sharps container. Lock and label the container with premises/departmental address prior to disposal.[1]
Close the aperture to the sharps container when carrying or if left temporary opening of, to prevent spillage or tampering.[1]
Keep all sharps waste in a designated, secure area until it is collected.[1]
Carry sharps containers by the handle, away from the body.[1]
[1] Avoiding sharps injuries - Blood borne viruses (BBV). https://www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/blood-borne-viruses/avoiding-sharps-injuries.htm
[2] Sharps Management, Needle-Stick Injuries and Exposure to Blood Borne Viruses Procedure ICPr005. https://www.nhft.nhs.uk/download.cfm?doc=docm93jijm4n12848.pdf&ver=30645
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