Used diabetic testing supplies in the trash may cause problems for landfills and the people who work there. Contaminated sharps can spread germs, injure others and spread deadly diseases. Disposing of sharps while traveling is dangerous for those who empty the trash at airports, public restrooms and hotels as workers may stick themselves with stray needles. There are safe ways to dispose of diabetic testing supplies and insulin needles.
Step 1
Call the local trash collection service or household waste drop off location to find out about needle drop off locations.
Step 2
Obtain a locking needle container from your local pharmacy, state health department or mail back service. Use a plastic gallon milk jug in a pinch if the local household waste drop off location accepts them.
Step 3
Subscribe to a needle exchange program or mail back service. Be sure the service is acceptable to the U.S. Postal Service.
Step 4
Call your state health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to get a copy of the rules for disposing of medical waste in each state.
Step 5
Buy a needle destruction device. Regular disposal in a waste can is acceptable after destruction and sterilization.
Tips and Warnings
- A local pharmacist will be a good place to get information about disposing of needles and testing supplies. Doctor’s offices and clinics will sometimes allow you to dispose of small amounts of testing supplies. A church or local community group may know of a medical waste disposal program. Check first before dropping off used sharps.
- Sterilize testing supplies and needles before disposal to kill germs and viruses like HIV and hepatitis. Use 1 part bleach to 9 parts of water to make a 10-percent solution for soaking sharps before putting them in the locked container.
Things You'll Need
- Locking needle container
- Needle destruction device
- Mail back service
