Once used, medical products such as needles, syringes or any sharp objects need to be disposed of immediately. If not, it not only brings poison to the environment but also to humans and animals. Do you know syringes contain contaminants that can make people fall sick?
Yes, this is why every individual must comply with proper medical waste disposal. Wondering how it can be done most safely? To help you and protect society, here is the best way to get rid of used syringes.
Use Any of These Ways to Get Rid of Used Syringes
- Use Sharp Disposal Container
After you've used a syringe, the first thing you must do is place all the syringes, be it any type, in a sharp disposal container. Remember not to overfill the container and never to reuse the sharp disposal container. You can easily purchase a sharps box from clinics or hospitals nearby.
- Dispose of the Used Containers
Once you've filled the container, the next thing you must do is dispose of it following the community's guidelines. In general, the guidelines and programs vary from location to location. So a wise decision would be to check with your area's concerned authorities.
- Non-clear Container
Apart from regular sharps boxes, you can also use non-clear containers to dispose of used syringes. Purchase a puncture-proof and hard container for both clipped or unclipped syringes.
- Be Careful
When disposing of syringes and sharps disposal containers, always remember to seal them. In addition to checking and following the community guidelines, also label the containers properly. For more information, you can also contact your medical or prescription insurer.
What are the Different Types of Disposal Methods?
Be it syringes or medical consumable products, the different types of disposal methods are as follows:
- Opt for Mail-Back Programs
For proper disposal, you can mail FDA-cleared sharps disposal containers to a collection site. Usually, they charge a fee depending on the container's size. Before disposing of your syringes make sure to go through the container manufacturer’s instructions for certain requirements or guidelines.
- Drop Box/Collection Sites
Another method of disposal is to drop your syringes at supervised collection sites. The locations include health departments, pharmacies, offices, hospitals, etc. However, it may be free or may require a nominal fee.
- Collection Sites for Household Hazardous Waste
Another best method of dropping your sharp medical products or syringes is at local public household hazardous waste collection sites. In addition to medical waste, these sites are also used for disposal of materials such as painters, motor oil and others.
- Opt for Special Pick-up Services
In addition to others, special pick-up services are also a great choice. It is generally provided by the community as they send trained special waste handlers. They collect sharps disposal containers from your home as they come with the required equipment such as masks, gloves, etc. Usually, these services are based on fee, however, you can also schedule by calling and requesting pick-ups. They can offer you both time-to-time or regular pick-up scheduled services.
Safety Measures to Follow While Disposing Syringes
Here are some safety measures to follow while disposing of syringes:
- Before disposing, never re-cap your syringes.
- When travelling properly dispose of your syringes or bring them home back safely for disposal. Besides, when traveling you can also carry a portable sharps disposal container.
- Never dispose of your syringes in the regular trash.
- Never break or cut off syringe needles with scissors.
- Never dispose of syringes in clear plastic bottles.
- Never flush syringes down the toilet.
- Always use an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container. If not available, you can opt for a heavy-duty plastic household container.
- Always purchase a disposal container with good and basic features.
- Keep syringes and disposal containers away from children and pets.
- If you find an issue related to syringes, sharps, medical consumable products or disposal containers, instantly report a problem.
Follow Guidelines and Lessen the Risks
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