Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Responsible Sharps Disposal in the Home 

"Sharps" are objects that can cut or penetrate the skin. They include, but are not limited to, needles, syringes, lancets, razor blades, and broken glass. The proper disposal of sharps that are generated in your home in puncture resistant (heavy plastic or metal) containers can prevent injury and infection among the public and sanitation workers and prevent pollution of the environment.

Home users can place needles, syringes, lancets, razors, and other sharp objects in the following types of containers:

• sharps containers bought from a pharmacy or medical supply store;
• an empty coffee can;
• an empty laundry detergent or bleach bottle made of heavy plastic;

When the container is full, tape the lid down with heavy duct or packing tape. Make sure the container is clearly labeled with the words "medical waste" or "sharps container". Let your waste collector know that sharps are being placed in with other trash. Do not simply throw your sharps into the trash can as they can puncture the garbage bag and cause injury to you or the sanitation worker handling the trash.