Sharps Disposal Containers: Selection, Evaluation, and Use

Abstract

Occupational transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been documented. The risk of infection with HIV following one needlestick exposure is approximately 0.3% and ranges from 6% to 30% for FMV and from 3.3% to 10% for hepatitis C. The diversity of health care settings makes selection of a single sharps disposal container design inappropriate in many cases. No single sharps disposal container design meets all the disposal containment needs for an entire facility. Selection of any specific container(s) should be based on a comprehensive site-specific hazard analysis. Criteria for the design, selection, and appropriate use of sharps containers were developed. The sharps disposal container safety performance criteria are divided into four areas. First, containers should remain functional during their entire usage. Second, containers must be accessible to workers who use, maintain, or dispose of sharp devices. Third, containers should be visible o the workers who must use them. Last, container designs should provide accommodation to the user, the facility, and the environment. Although engineering controls, such as needleless IV systems and “safety” needles, will reduce injuries, proper selection and use of disposal containers is still important. Prevention strategies include implementation of engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, training, and the involvement of occupational health professionals and workers.