How can you safely dispose of sharps in a lab?

1 What are sharps?

Sharps are any items that can cut, puncture, or pierce the skin or other materials. They can be made of metal, glass, plastic, or ceramic. Sharps can include needles, syringes, lancets, scalpels, blades, knives, scissors, pipettes, broken glassware, slides, coverslips, and wire. Sharps can be contaminated with biological agents, chemicals, or radioactive materials, depending on the type of lab and experiment. Sharps can cause injuries such as cuts, lacerations, punctures, or splashes, which can lead to bleeding, infections, or exposure to hazardous substances.

2 Why is sharps disposal important?

Sharps disposal is important for several reasons. First, it protects you and your colleagues from potential injuries and infections that can result from improper handling or storage of sharps. Second, it prevents the spread of pathogens or contaminants to other people, animals, or the environment. Third, it complies with the legal and ethical standards for lab safety and biosafety, which may vary depending on the country, institution, or protocol. Failing to dispose of sharps properly can result in fines, penalties, or legal actions.

3 How to prepare sharps for disposal?

Before disposing of sharps, you need to prepare them according to the guidelines and procedures of your lab. It's important not to recap, bend, break, or reuse sharps as this can increase the risk of injury or contamination. For collection, use a puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and sealable container that is labeled with a biohazard symbol and the word "sharps". The container should be located close to where you use sharps and within your reach. Place sharps in the container immediately after use without overfilling it or forcing them in. Close the container securely when it is three-quarters full or when you are done with your experiment, and do not reopen it once it is closed. Lastly, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water after handling sharps or the container.

4 How to dispose of sharps containers?

Once you have prepared sharps for disposal, you must dispose of them in accordance with the regulations and policies of your lab. Firstly, check the label of the container to determine the type and level of hazard of the sharps, as different types may require different disposal methods such as autoclaving, incineration, or landfilling. Next, follow the instructions from your lab supervisor or biosafety officer on how to transport and store the container safely. Protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be used as needed. Additionally, do not carry the container by hand or place it in a public area. Finally, dispose of the container in the designated area or facility for sharps disposal. It is important not to mix it with other waste or recyclables nor throw it in the regular trash or flush it down the toilet. Additionally, record the date, time, and location of disposal and keep a log of all sharps disposal activities for documentation and auditing purposes.

5 How to prevent and handle sharps injuries?

It is important to take precautions when working with sharps in the lab, even if you follow the best practices for sharps disposal. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, goggles, and masks. Be mindful of your surroundings and the location of sharps and containers. If a sharps injury occurs, report it to your lab supervisor or biosafety officer immediately, and seek medical attention if needed. Follow the post-exposure protocol of your lab, which may include testing, treatment, or vaccination. Also, dispose of the sharps that caused the injury in a separate container and label it with details of the incident. Do not reuse or share the sharps with others.