Tips for safe sharps storage & disposal

During the holiday season, more people travel than most times of the year. And for those who require sharps for medical purposes, this can pose some challenges. If you’re traveling and need to bring sharps with you, it’s important that you store them safely and dispose of them properly.

Be aware of state and federal regulations

As a regular sharps user, it’s likely that you are well aware of the rules in your state when it comes to proper storage and disposal, but when you’re traveling, it’s crucial that you familiarize yourself with regulations of where you’re visiting. And, if you’re traveling via airplane, it’s best to find out about TSA regulations and those of the airline you are flying on before travel. Improper storage and disposal of your sharps and other medical supplies could not only pose a risk to those around you but could cause you to be detained at the airport. Although many airports and airplanes have sharps containers for disposal in restrooms, be sure that you research what’s available and the requirements ahead of time and that you always carry your sharps in an FDA approved container.

Plan ahead for disposal

Whether you’re staying at someone’s home or a hotel, you must plan ahead for disposal of your sharps. There are travel-sized sharps containers available for purchase, but if you cannot get one of these, make sure you have a container that is puncture proof and has a tight-fitting lid. Never throw your sharps into the garbage can, even in your host’s home—because doing so endangers everyone in the home and the garbage pick up workers. If you’re staying in a hotel, make sure sharps are disposed of in an approved container and if possible, bring your sharps back home with you to avoid unnecessarily exposing others to the risk of injury. 

Keep medication with you

If you’re carrying vials of medication, like insulin, along with your sharps, be sure to pack it in a carry-on bag so you have it with you at all times—that way if your luggage is lost you will always have what you need. If possible, have your doctor provide a letter explaining your medical needs and that your medication must be brought onto the plane with you. You will likely have to take all medication and sharps out of your baggage as you go through TSA, so be prepared.

The holidays are often the busiest time of the year, but with proper planning, you can ensure that you are able to relax and enjoy traveling. Follow these tips for the safe storage and disposal of sharps and all your medical supplies and to learn more visit our blog.

All Points Medical Waste is a family-owned and operated business serving South Florida, from Okeechobee and Indian River Counties to St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, and Broward Counties. Give us a call today at 772.600.4885 to find out more about what we do and how we can serve you.