Sharps are devices or objects with corners, edges, or projections capable of cutting or piercing skin or regular waste bags. State and local laws regulate disposal of sharps to protect waste handlers from both physical and contamination hazards. Examples of sharps include:

• Hypodermic needles, syringes, tubing
• Blades (scalpels, razors)
• Broken lab glassware
• Microscope slides
• Glass capillary tubes

The disposal method for sharps depends on whether they are contaminated with a hazardous material and the type of contaminate(s). Separating sharps by type of contamination is required by law.

For disposal purposes, there are 4 kinds of sharps:

• Non-contaminated
• Chemically contaminated
• Radioactive
• Biohazardous

Read How to Dispose of Sharps for specific disposal procedures.

Need an expert? Contact the EH&S Environmental Management Facility, (858) 534-2753.