Biohazard & Sharps Disposal

About biohazard and sharps disposal

Sharps disposal containers take contaminated sharps, which OSHA defines as any contaminated object able to penetrate the skin, such as needles or scalpels. The definition also covers broken glass and the exposed ends of dental wires. Under OSHA, contaminated sharps are discarded as soon as feasible into containers that are closable, puncture resistant, leakproof on the sides and bottom, and labelled or colour-coded. During use those containers are kept easily accessible and as close as is feasible to the area where sharps are used, upright, and replaced routinely rather than allowed to overfill. The FDA describes sharps disposal containers as rigid puncture-resistant plastic or metal with leak-resistant sides and bottom and a tight-fitting lid whose opening takes a sharp but is not large enough for a hand, and generally regulates them as class II devices. They are marked with a line showing when the container is about three-fourths full, at which point it is closed and sealed; a full container is never opened, emptied or manually cleaned.

Takes the objects that can penetrate the skin, at the point where they are used. Warning labels on containers of regulated waste are fluorescent orange or orange-red with lettering and symbols in a contrasting colour, and red bags or red containers may be substituted for labels.

Sources: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030, Bloodborne pathogens · FDA: Sharps Disposal Containers in Health Care Facilities