Basic Biological Safety – Principles and Practices


Managing Sharps Waste

Sharps Disposal

Sharps containers are designed to protect you and the environment at large by isolating puncture hazards. However, this can only happen if the containers are used properly.

Please adhere to the following practices when using sharps containers:

  • Containers must be leak-proof, puncture resistant, closeable and labeled with the biohazard symbol.
  • Proper sharps containers must be used for clinical work, fieldwork and laboratory work. Coffee cans, reagent bottles and other makeshift containers are not acceptable.
  • Before putting a container into use, be sure that the top is properly installed and locked into place.

Labeling and Disposal of Sharps Containers

  • Sharps containers should be labeled with a "SHARPS" label that has been filled out when they are put into service.
  • Containers must be permanently closed and disposed of through University Safety and Assurances when they are 3/4 full. Do NOT overfill sharps containers!

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Updated November 27, 2007 by SAK