Virginia Sharps Disposal Laws

Hospitals, nursing homes and laboratories all use and dispose of needles and other "sharps" such as scalpels and knives that may be contaminated with bodily fluids or pathogens. Proper disposal is critical to keeping potential dangers contained and preventing injury. Various federal agencies have regulations concerning sharps disposal. Additionally, many states, including Virginia, impose their own regulations.

Defines 'Sharps'

• Virginia law defines "sharps" to help individuals understand what items are included in its sharps disposal law as regulated medical wastes. Items covered under law include needles, scalpels, knives, syringes with attached needles, eye droppers and other items used for medical or laboratory purposes that have a sharp point or edge. To determine if an item is included, individuals should consider whether the item could break during transportation and result in a sharp point that may cause injury, or whether the item may be contaminated with pathogenic organisms. Additionally, Virginia law makes it clear that sharps generated through veterinary practices should be treated as sharps from any other medical facility.

Explains Appropriate Containers

• Virginia law explains that all sharps must be placed directly in containers that meet industry standards. The state's Department of Labor and Industry further explains that such containers must conform with the requirements of the federal Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act. The federal law requires that employers consider safer needle devices as part of their annual evaluations of their exposure control plans and, if available, use safer devices than are being currently employed. Employers must take into account innovations that reduce the risk of exposure.

Addresses Appropriate Labeling

• According to Virginia laws, sharps containers must be labeled so that it's clear that there is medical waste inside. It should state "Regulated Medical Waste" in large print and have the biological hazard symbol. Additionally, the state law states that the label must be securely attached to the container or be printed directly on it. Indelible ink must be used to fill any information required on the label, and the information must be clearly legible. Labels must include the name, address and business phone of the entity that generated the wastes.

Ensures Safe Transportation

• When bags or containers become full, they must be sealed in such a way that no materials can leak out, according to Virginia statute during transport. Additionally, state law requires that sharps be in puncture resistant containers that meet industry standard prior to transport.