A:
The AZ Department of Environmental Quality has developed guidelines for the proper disposal of household needles/lancets.
The AZ DEQ guidance includes the following recommendations: - Medical sharps should be placed in either a medical sharps container purchased from a pharmacy or health care provider, or in a heavy-plastic or metal container.
- The container should be puncture-proof with a tight-fitting lid.
- Household containers, such as plastic detergent bottles, can be used if heavy duty tape is used to secure the lid to the container and the words “Not Recyclable” are written on the container with a black indelible marker.
The AZ DEQ guidance includes these warnings:
- Do not use a clear or glass container.
- Do not over-fill the containers.
Keep container out of reach of children and pets.
- Always wash your hands after handling or touching medical sharps. Visit the AZDEQ web site to review guidelines.