If your business generates sharps waste — defined as used needles, lancets, and other devices that can puncture or cut skin — you must follow strict guidelines for disposing of this waste. Improperly disposing of sharps waste can pose a severe health hazard to you, your employees, and the general public.
Learn more about these guidelines when you continue reading.
What Are Sharps?
Sharps are a type of medical waste that can pose a serious threat to public health. They are often used in medical procedures and can be contaminated with blood or other body fluids. If not properly disposed of, they can end up in the wrong hands and be used to harm others.
There are a few different types of sharps, but the most common are needles. Needles can be used for purposes, including injections, drawing blood, and even acupuncture. They can be made of different materials, including metal, plastic, and glass.
While needles are the most common type of sharp, there are other types as well. Scalpel blades, for example, are often used in surgery and can be just as dangerous as needles if not appropriately handled.
Which Businesses Need Sharp Waste Disposal?
Many businesses need sharp waste disposal, but some businesses are at a higher risk for sharps injuries than others.
Healthcare facilities are one type of business that needs sharp waste disposal. This is because healthcare workers are constantly dealing with sharp objects, such as needles and scalpels. If these objects are not properly disposed of, there is a risk of the workers being injured by
them.
Another business that needs sharp waste disposal is any business that deals with food. This is because sharp objects, such as knives and saws, are often used to prepare food. If these objects are not correctly disposed of, there is a risk of the food becoming contaminated with bacteria.
Finally, any business that deals with hazardous materials need sharp waste disposal. This is because sharp objects, such as needles and saws, can puncture containers of hazardous materials. If these objects are not properly disposed of, there is a risk of the hazardous materials leaking out and causing harm to people or the environment.
What Types of Bins Are Needed for Disposing of Sharps?
There are many different types of storage containers for sharps, but not all are created equal. Some are made specifically for certain types of sharps, while others are more general purpose.
Here is a rundown of the most common types of sharps bins and their intended use:
- Needle Clipping Devices
These devices are used to clip the sharp tip off of needles. The clipped needles can then be safely disposed of in a regular trash can.
- Needle Disposal Containers
These containers are specifically designed to store used needles. They are usually made of hard plastic with a screw-on lid.
- Puncture-Proof Sharps Containers
These containers are made of heavier-duty plastic and are designed to be puncture-resistant. They are often used in healthcare settings but can also be used at home.
- Specialised Sharps Containers
There are many different types of specialised sharps containers available. Some are designed for specific types of sharps, such as insulin needles. Others are designed for use in specific settings, such as the kitchen.
No matter what type of sharp you are using, it is crucial to have a proper storage container for it. Used sharps should never be thrown in the trash or flushed down the toilet. Doing so can pose a serious health hazard to you and others.
Final Thoughts
Properly disposing of sharps is vital for businesses to protect their employees and customers from potential injuries. There are a few different ways to dispose of sharps, but the most important thing is to ensure that they are disposed of safely and properly.
If you need a way for disposing of needles and syringes in the UK, check out UKMEDI today. We offer various types of sharps bins — from 0.3 litre to 24 litre capacity. Explore our selection and buy now!