Beginning September 1, 2008, California law will prohibit the disposal of sharps waste, including needles, syringes and lancets, in the regular trash. Sharps waste poses a risk to trash collectors who may accidentally get stuck by a needle, syringe or lancet and be exposed to a disease. Your children, pets, housekeepers, and janitors may also be at risk of a needle stick if needles are improperly stored or disposed.
Used sharps may:
- injure people
- spread germs
- spread serious disease like HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and tetanus
Sharps should not be:
- thrown in the trash
- flushed down the toilet
- placed in recycling containers
Put Sharps Waste in its Place!
- Ask your health care provider or pharmacist if they take back used needles, lancets, and syringes.
- Take your used needles, lancets, and syringes to drop-off collection sites or household hazardous waste facilities.
- Consider using a "Mail-Back" service for proper disposal. For a list of mail-back service companies, visit California Department of Public Health (fees apply)
Sharps Waste flyers are available in English and Spanish.
For more information, contact the County of San Diego Household Hazardous Hotline at 1-877-R-1-EARTH (877-713-2784)
|
