# Safe Disposal of Sharps

## What should I do if I come across a needle in the community?

If needles are found on public property, please contact London CAReS:

* 519-667-2273
* Monday - Friday (8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.)
* Weekends and stat holidays (9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
* Outside of these hours a message can be left and a call will be returned the following day when services resume.

If a needle is found close to our office building then please report it to one of the following Health & Safety committee members: Josh Dow or Mardel Davis.

## Why should you be concerned about sharps?

* Sharps can contain blood from other people and this blood can carry blood-borne infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
* HIV can live on a needle for up to several hours. Hepatitis B and C can live on a needle for up to a week.
* Accidental puncture wounds from a sharp can allow the entry of infection through the skin, resulting in blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.
* Used sharps are dangerous and must be disposed of properly.

## To dispose of found sharps or broken glass:

* Use caution at all times.
* If possible, only use tongs to pick up the sharp. If tongs are not available, use thick gloves or a thick cloth taking care not to touch the sharp or cutting edge.
* Always hold sharp or cutting edges away from you.
* Teach children to never touch sharps but to tell an adult about what they found and where.
* Never dispose of sharps (used needles, syringes and lancets) in your garbage or recycling box.

Approved by:

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_                      \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\[Signing Officer]                                         Date


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