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Household Hazardous Waste
Home Medical Waste Disposal
Here are some general rules regarding the disposal of home medical waste:
Individuals with certain medical conditions are frequently required to use devices such as hypodermic needles, syringes, lancets and scalpel blades. Many of these individuals, however, are not informed of the proper ways to dispose of household medical waste. Improper disposal of these items may result in the injury of trash haulers and recyclers, and contaminate and potentially jeopardize recycling programs.
Ask your pharmacist if he/she offers proper disposal or knows of a safe disposal program in your area.
To properly dispose of medical waste at home:
>Place all items with sharp edges in a strong plastic container with a lid (such as a laundry detergent bottle) or a coffee can with a lid. Write "NOT RECYCLABLE" on the container to make sure it does not accidentally get put into your recycling bin. When the container is about 3/4 full, put the lid on and seal it tightly with strong tape. This container can then be placed in your garbage bin for pick up - DO NOT place in your recycling bin.
>Residents may contact the Coalition for Safe Community Needle Disposal by calling 1-800-643-1643 or by visiting their website at www.safeneedledisposal.org to learn about safe disposal programs in their area.
>Residents who are unsure about how to properly dispose of their medical wastes may contact Stericycle by calling 1-800-MEDWASTE or by visiting their website at www.stericycle.com.