How to Dispose of “Sharps” Safely

"Sharps" is a medical term for items with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut skin. Examples include needles, syringes, and lancets. Every year University Park sanitation workers are injured by sharps that are improperly discarded.

Do not use the MedReturn disposal box for these products. Instead, use strong plastic containers including bleach bottles or liquid detergent bottles to safely dispose of sharps. These containers have small openings with caps and lids that fit tightly and secure the sharps inside. When the container is full, tightly secure the lid and reinforce it with heavy duct tape before including it in your trash for collection.