The Laws on Needle Disposal

People use needles and syringes every day to aid in overcoming health problems such as diabetes, or to participate in illegal drug use. These problems lead to thousands of needles getting used every single day. Since needles used or unused can become dangerous if not disposed of properly, each state in the US has developed its own laws on how you should dispose of your used needles. While each state outlines its own laws, many commonalities exist on how you should go about getting rid of unwanted needles to ensure that our environment gets protected against disease and unsafe objects or waste. If you use needles then you must familiarize yourself with your state's laws that govern needle disposal.

Commonalities Among States

• Despite the fact that each state creates its own needle disposal laws, many commonalities exist. Overlap becomes evident when you consider that every state requires proper labeling, containment and warning options. You must look at your state's laws by going on to the Environmental Protection Agency's website. There you can obtain the relevant information that is particular to your state.

Labeling

• A common practice among needle users is to label the container that they dispose their needles in as "non-recyclable." Safe Needle Disposal.org states that, as a syringe user, you must never label your containers as medical waste, or infectious waste, as this information only pertains to health care professionals. Some states such as Arizona require you to use a permanent black marker to write on your syringe container, while others, like Alabama, do not specify this. In Connecticut, you must write'do not recycle-sharps' on the container while Hawaii prefers the word "bio-hazard." As you can see, every state has it's own preferences for safe needle disposal labeling practices.

Suitable Containers

• Almost every state wants your needles to be placed in a sealed, puncture proof container that has a tight fitting lid. Most states like Alabama and Colorado also want you to reinforce the lid with strong tape. Hawaii does not mind if you place the needles into old soap bottles, while Alabama does not want you to use anything that could be mistaken for recyclables.

Other Warnings

• The majority of states want you to remember that handling needles can be very dangerous. Safe Needle Disposal.org stresses that any containers you use to dispose of needles should never go anywhere near children. You must also remember to wash your hands after handling needles and syringes. You must also dispose of your needles as frequently as you do your regular garbage.

Needle Disposal Options

• Once you have finished labeling and containing your needles, you must dispose of them properly. In Colorado, you can put your needle container in with your regular trash; however, many other and more environmentally friendly options exist. The Environmental Protection Agency states that you must investigate your options to see if your town or city has a drop box or supervised collection site. Here you can ensure that your needles are disposed of properly. Mail back programs also exist although a fee is required for this method. Some cities even have exchange programs where professionals can educate you about safe injection practices. There are also destruction devices you can buy from the pharmacy so that you can put your needles into the trash without worry.