What precautions should be used when working with needles and sharps?
Consider all needles and sharps as being infected. The user of the sharp should plan for its safe use and disposal. Please also see the OSH Answers documents HIV/AIDS in the Workplace and Needlestick and Sharps Injuries for more information.
- context Wear appropriate gloves when touching and or handling items that are visibly soiled with blood or bodily fluids. Gloves must be changed in between contact of individuals.
- context If there is potential for splashing, masks and eye protection must be worn.
- context Use puncture-resistant containers for disposal of sharps and needles.
- context Containers should have a max fill line, be leakproof, and be closable.
- context Dispose of sharps containers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Replace and existing seal sharps disposal container closed when about three-fourths (3/4) full or at the max fill line indicating the container is full.
- context Do not open, empty, or manually clean full sharps disposal containers.
- context Label containers with symbols or words, such as the biohazard symbol or "CAUTION: WASTE SHARPS."
- context Clean and sterilize reusable syringes before reusing them.
- context Place large bore reusable needles in puncture-proof containers.
- context Use clamps to remove lancet and scalpel blades from holders, not your fingers.
- context Do not recap, bend, break or remove needles by hand from disposable syringes or otherwise handle after use.