Learning and Working Environmental Health

SCTCC Protocol For Proper Disposal of Sharp Materials

Sharps are broken glass, needles, scalpel blades, razor blades or metal shards. When these items are disposed care must be given to prevent harm or injury to the handlers.

If you have non-contaminated sharp objects such as metal or glass that you need to dispose of, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Sharp materials, such as broken glass or metal fragments should be placed in a rigid secondary container that will prevent penetration and is sealable. Plastic containers like empty milk bottles, buckets or jars can be used. Firm cardboard boxes can also be used. Label and seal and tape tightly. The label should read “Broken Glass”, or “Sharp Material”.

These items can be placed in the hard trash (dumpster). Broken glass may be recycled.

Disposal of sharp materials contaminated by infectious agents

According to the EPA, infectious waste sharps shall be placed in a rigid, puncture-resistant, leak resistant, sealable container specifically designed and manufactured for the disposal of sharps. They will also need to be labeled as sharps and with the international biohazard symbol. For disposal by Safety Department, these containers will need to be placed in a red plastic bag with the international biohazard symbol on it and then placed in a biohazard shipping box. Bags and boxes maybe provided by contacting the Safety Department at 308-6158.

Disposal of sharp materials contaminated by chemical agents

Chemically contaminated sharp materials should be placed in a rigid, puncture proof container, such as a plastic bottle, hard cardboard box or a bucket and then placed in a secondary container identifying the chemical agent. Finally, dispose of as chemical hazardous waste, following SCTCC’s Hazardous Waste guidelines.

Non-Contaminated

• glass, razor blades, metal
• Pack in puncture-resistant container (jars, metal, hard plastic & cardboard, etc.) label and seal and tape tightly
• Label: “Broken Glass”