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Proper disposal of used needles and sharps is crucial for safeguarding both human health and the environment. At our pharmacy, we are committed to providing the necessary tools and information to ensure that our customers can manage their medical waste responsibly and effectively.
This guide will introduce you to the importance of using sharps bins and other related items, known as ancillaries, to safely handle and dispose of sharps waste.
Why Proper Disposal is Essential
The waste generated from medical treatments, particularly used needles and other sharps, poses significant risks if not disposed of correctly.
Needles, lancets, and other sharp objects can cause injuries and infections to individuals handling waste, such as sanitation workers or anyone who might accidentally come into contact with improperly discarded sharps.
Furthermore, incorrect disposal can harm the environment, contaminating water sources and soil.
Frequently asked questions
What are Sharps Bins?
Sharps bins are specially designed containers that are puncture-resistant and leak-proof, ensuring that used needles and other sharp objects can be disposed of safely. These bins are essential for anyone who uses needles for medical purposes, such as insulin injections, fertility treatments, or other medications administered through injections. Sharps bins come in various sizes to accommodate different levels of usage and are made from durable materials to withstand the storage and transport of medical waste.
Can I get a Sharps Bin?
You do not need a prescription to obtain a sharps bin. These bins are readily available at healthcare establishments, including pharmacies. If sharps bins are included in your treatment, this can also be added when you arrange for your next delivery online.
Our staff is also trained to assist you in selecting the right size and type of bin for your needs and to provide guidance on proper disposal practices.
How do I dispose of my Sharps Bin?
Once your sharps bin is full, it is important to follow the correct procedures for disposal. Securely close the lid of the bin to prevent any leaks or accidental injuries. You can pass the full sharps bin to our driver when they deliver your next lot of medication. Most of our drivers are licensed to remove medical waste; however, if your driver is among the few who do not carry a waste carrier licence, please contact us to arrange for a collection. Alternatively, you can reach out to your local council for disposal services, as many councils offer convenient collection options to ensure safe and compliant disposal of medical waste.
Do not put used needles or other sharps in:
Any type of household bin (for example, a general rubbish bin or a recycling bin)
A container that's no longer needed, such as a drinks can or bottle
Needles can cause injuries. Used needles can carry blood-borne viruses that may be passed on to other people. Viruses that can be passed on through contact with needles include:
HIV
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
How do I add a sharps bin to my delivery?
You can add (or remove) a sharps bin (and other non-medicine items/ancillaries) to your delivery through the "One-Time Delivery date link", PHP App (coming soon) or Patient Portal (coming soon):
Using the Delivery date link: To access the Delivery date link sent to you via SMS and email, after clicking on the link, verify your account using your date of birth. Once verified, confirm your delivery details and date. At this point you can choose to add or remove a sharps bin by clicking the add or remove sharps bin option. Please note that this link is a "One-Time link" and cannot be used again.
PHP App (coming soon): Simply select your active order, then using the drop-down menu, select the item you wish to add to your order. Input the quantity you require, then click continue. This handy guide will talk you through the process: Get Started with the PHP App.
Patient Portal (coming soon): Log in to the portal here and then select the 'My Deliveries' tab on the left-hand side menu. Select 'edit' on the delivery you would like to add items to. Then, using the drop-down box, select the items you would like to add. Select 'continue'. This handy guide will talk you through the process: How to Add a Sharps Bin to Your Delivery.
What are Ancillaries?
The term ancillaries refers to the additional equipment you may require to administer your medication. For example, this could be sharps bins for the disposal of syringes, dressings, wipes, or needles. If you have any questions regarding the ancillaries you may need for your medication, please contact us here.
Ancillaries: Supporting Your Safe Disposal Practices
In addition to sharps bins, various ancillary products can support your safe disposal practices.
These include items such as disposal bags for other medical waste, gloves for safe handling of sharps, and antiseptic wipes to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Our pharmacy offers a range of these ancillary products to complement your sharps disposal routine, making the process as seamless and safe as possible.
Our Commitment to Your Safety and the Environment
At our pharmacy, we are dedicated to promoting safe disposal practices for used needles and sharps. We understand the importance of protecting both individual health and the environment, and we strive to provide the resources and support our customers need to manage their medical waste responsibly. If you have any questions or require assistance with sharps disposal, our knowledgeable staff is here to help. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are committed to making the disposal process as easy and effective as possible.
By following these guidelines and utilising the resources available, you can play a vital role in ensuring that used needles and sharps are disposed of safely, protecting yourself, others, and the environment. Thank you for choosing our pharmacy as your partner in health and safety.
