Safe Disposal of Used Syringes and Lancets
Park Forest, IL–(ENEWSPF)– Each year in the United States, more than one billion syringes, needles, and lancets, i.e., medical sharps, are used for the care of people with diabetes and other health problems. Proper disposal of medical sharps is necessary to protect families and waste handlers from injury and to help keep the environment clean and safe.
The Park Forest Health Department and Park Forest Environment Commission remind you to follow these guidelines for the safe disposal of medical sharps.
Disposal Guidelines
- Locate a strong plastic or metal container with a tight cap or lid to use for storage of used syringes or lancets. Plastic containers should be made of strong plastic so needles can’t poke through. Examples include plastic bleach jugs, plastic liquid detergent bottles or plastic milk jugs. Do not use glass containers as they can break.
NOTE: Residents of Park Forest can participate in Park Forest’s Community Safe Disposal Pilot Program by purchasing a sharp container for $10 at the Park Forest Health Department, 350 Victory Drive (lower level of Village Hall). Contact the Park Forest Health Department at 708-748-1118 for more information about this program.
- After use of syringes or lancets, place the used item directly into the container. Do not try to bend, break, or put the cap back on the needle as you may injure yourself. Do not place alcohol swabs or other material in the container. Replace the lid on the container.
- Only fill the container to approximately ¾ full. Forcing more syringes or lancets into the container may cause injuries.
- Store the container out of the reach of small children and pets.
- Once the container is full, apply the cap tightly and seal the container with heavy duty tape such as duct tape.
- Throw the sealed container in the trash. Do not place the sealed container in a recycling bin as this poses safety hazards for the waste handlers.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency