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Safe Disposal of Sharps

sharps flyer

How to Safely Dispose of Needles and Syringes at Home

Sharps is a medical term for devices with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut skin. Used needles, syringes, and lancets, collectively known as sharps, require safe disposal to protect sanitation workers, residents, and animals from accidental injury and disease transmission.  Never place sharps loosely in the trash, recycling bin, or toilet. 

Used sharps should be immediately placed in a sharps disposal container. FDA - cleared sharps containers are generally available through pharmacies, medical supply companies, health care providers and online.
New Jersey allows residents to dispose of used sharps in the regular trash if they are first placed in a strong, puncture-resisitant plastic container with a secure lid. 

STEPS:

  1. Place sharps in a sturdy, puncture-resistant plastic container with a screw on lid, such as a laundry detergent or bleach bottle. Do not use coffee cans or glass containers
  2. When the container is full, seal the lid securely and tape it closed
  3. Label the container : "Do Not Recycle - Containers Sharps"
  4. Place the sealed, labeled container with your regular household trash. 

Another option is going to one of the following Bergen County drop-off locations:

  • Several hospitals accept sealed sharps containers at no charge. We recommend calling ahead of time.  The 2 nearest Bergen County locations are: 
  1. Englewood Hospital, 350 Engle St, Englewood
  2. Holy Name Medical Center, 718 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck
  • Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) Hazardous Waste Events

    BCUA Main Office: 98 Empire Blvd., Moonachie, NJ 07074
    Phone: (201) 641-2552
    Hazardous Waste Hotline: 201-807-5825
    Website: www.bcua.org

Additional resources:
NJ Safe Syringe Disposal Guide (NJDEP) 
FDA safe Sharps disposal 
Find drop-off sites statewide