Sharps Disposal Procedure

Stevens Institute of Technology Procedure for Sharps Disposal for Residential and Non-Residential Students 

Purpose:  

• Improper disposal of sharps carries health and safety risks. Sharps can carry  harmful pathogens, which may cause serious health conditions. Improper disposal can lead to accidental needle sticks, which can cause injury or transmission of bloodborne diseases. Students using sharps (this includes needles and all pump supplies containing needles) for diabetic or other legitimate medical reasons are responsible for disposing of these sharps properly.   

Procedure:  

• Used sharps must be stored in a rigid puncture resistant container such as a red  medical waste container (this is preferred and can be purchased for $5.00 at Student Health Services with Duck Bills) or an empty detergent bottle with the lid taped securely and clearly labeled as a “sharps disposal container.” The storage or disposal of needles in any other type of container is unacceptable. 

• The preferred method for disposal of sharps is to bring used sharps to Student Health Services (SHS) in an appropriate sharps container. Sharps brought to SHS that are not in the appropriate container will be refused. Sharps will be disposed of properly in accordance with FDA Guidelines . 

• An alternative and acceptable method of sharps disposal is to dispose of sharps in the trash in a sealed rigid container. Note that red medical waste containers cannot go into regular trash and must be taken to Student Health Services.  

• Non-residential students who use sharps while on campus may dispose of their  sharps at Student Health Services Monday-Friday between 9-4pm.