Superior Points HRP - Canadian Harm Reduction Network

If a client is returning syringes in any container other than a sharps (popcan, bottle, bag), theentire container should be carefully placed in a larger sharps container.When feeling unsafe, refuse to accept them or ask the client if they wouldplace them in the larger container. Do not try to remove syringes frombags or bottles first.Sharps must be packaged in appropriate biohazard waste containers anddisposed of according to Biomedical Waste Disposal Procedures.Preparing Full Sharps Containers for Disposal:To pack up several sharps containers for biohazardous waste disposal bythe Thunder Bay District Health Unit, take the following steps:1. Have a designated cardboard box assembled in advance, followingthe numbered instructions on the box itself. Use three parallel stripsof packing tape to reinforce the bottom of the box.2. Line the box with the appropriate biohazardous bag and leave thetop open until the box is full.3. Place square sharps containers on their sides carefully in the box.Any needles recovered in cans, bottles, plastic containers, bags, etc.should be placed in appropriate sharps containers prior to placementin the box.4. When the box is full (not bulging), fold the bag in on itself. Followby folding up the box flaps in numerical order. Seal the top of thebox using three parallel strips of packing tape.5. Without allowing the box to brush against the body, move sealedboxes to a designated location for later pick-up by SPHRP.6. At the Thunder Bay District Health Unit storage area, SPHRP staffmust also place a tracking sticker on every full box ready forbiohazardous waste disposal.SUPERIOR POINTS HARM REDUCTION PROGRAMProtocols for Staff, Volunteers and Community Agencies13