Do’s and Don’ts To Ensure Safe Disposal

Did you know that there are close to one million needlestick injuries each year in the USA? These injuries are dangerous because they can expose the victim to various illnesses and diseases including Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV and more. As a healthcare professional, it’s crucial that you know the safest way to dispose of sharps and how to protect yourself from the risks of accidental sticks and pricks. Here are the top four things you need to know about safe disposal:

1) Sharps Must Be Disposed of in Approved Containers

Any medical or healthcare facility that is utilizing sharps must have approved disposal containers. These containers are leak-proof and puncture-proof and have a locking lid to protect against accidents. Never throw sharps into the regular trash bin or flush them down the toilet, doing so poses dangerous risks to people, animals and the environment.

2) Sharps Containers Should Never Be Overfilled

In addition to proper placement throughout the facility, it’s vital that sharps containers are emptied on a regular basis to prevent overfilling. Containers that are overfilled can lead to risk of injuries to staff and patients.

3) Sharps Disposal Procedures Should Be Regularly Evaluated

Proper training of staff is a key way to prevent injuries- but all facilities that use sharps should evaluate their sharps disposal procedures on a regular basis. Hands-on training is a top way to ensure everyone on staff understands the hows and whys of sharps disposal.

4) A Sharps Injury Log Can Assist in Reducing Accidents

Accidents happen, but they can be reduced by maintaining a log and reviewing it on a regular basis. A log can point out which departments have the highest number of incidents and when accidents are occuring–allowing you to provide additional education and training.

When it comes to preventing sharps injuries, All Points Medical Waste can help. We provide OSHA training and disposal of sharps and other medical waste. Our family-owned and operated company is located in Stuart, Florida and we serve medical and healthcare-related facilities throughout South Florida, from Okeechobee County all the way to Broward County. Give us a call today or fill out this form to learn how we can serve you.