Syringe Disposal: Community Safety Guidelines
"There has never been a reported case of transmission of HIV via a community found syringe accidental needle stick," according to the Journal of Public Health, 2013. This highlights the importance of adhering to community safety guidelines. Furthermore, the British Medical Journal, 2015 states that "the risk of Hepatitis B and C transmission from a CFSANS is practically negligible," emphasizing effective syringe safety practices. Lastly, the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers Compensation, 2015 notes, "Needlestick injuries in non-healthcare settings are uncommon and the risk from any needlestick resulting in chronic disease is very small," which reinforces the significance of following proper needle disposal tips.
What do I do if I find a syringe?
Do not:
force needles or sharps into a container
put fingers inside the container
bend, break, recap or remove the needle, or leave the needle unattended; if you must leave to get disposal supplies, ask another person to keep watch to avoid an accidental stick.
Instead, follow these community safety guidelines:
Stay calm.
Make sure that you can clearly see and move around the needle.
Bring your sharps container or alternative for needle disposal, rather than moving the needle. These syringe safety practices are crucial to avoid injuries and ensure proper needle disposal.
Take Action:
To adhere to community safety guidelines, begin by putting on gloves. Next, place the container on the ground beside the syringe. For proper syringe safety, pick up the syringe by the middle of the barrel using tongs or gloved hands, whichever provides the most control. Carefully place the syringe into the sharps container, sharp end first, following needle disposal tips. After securing the lid of the sharps container, remove your gloves and wash your hands.
