What Are Sharps?
Sharps are any medical devices or objects that can puncture or cut the skin. These
include:
Needles
Syringes
Lancets
Scalpels
Auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPens)
Safe Handling Practices
1. Use Proper Techniques
Never recap, bend, or break needles after use.
Handle all sharps carefully to avoid accidental punctures or cuts.
2. Immediate Disposal
Dispose of sharps immediately after use to prevent injuries.
3. Avoid Overfilling Sharps Containers
Do not fill containers beyond the designated fill line. Overfilled containers increase the risk of needle sticks.
4. Maintain Clean Work Areas
Ensure the area where sharps are used and disposed of is free of clutter.
Safe Disposal Practices
1. Use Approved Sharps Containers
Always use FDA-cleared sharps containers for disposal
Containers should be:
Puncture-resistant
Leak-proof
Closable
2. Secure Placement
Place sharps containers in areas that are easily accessible but out of reach of children or unauthorized personnel.
3. Proper Disposal
When a container is 3/4 full, seal it tightly and follow local regulations for disposal.
4. Never Dispose of Sharps in...
Regular trash bins
Recycling bins