It is common in industry for work to generate waste blades and knives when they become dull. Because these sharps are uncontaminated, they are not considered “contaminated sharps” nor “regulated waste” under the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard at 29 CFR 1910.1030. OSHA does not have any specific disposal requirements for uncontaminated sharps. The agency also does not require them to be dispensed in a special container or to be labeled or color-coded.
However, Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, also known as the General Duty Clause, requires employers to furnish employees with a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees.
Because uncontaminated sharps pose a cut or puncture hazard, employers often provide makeshift containers composed of a rigid, plastic laundry detergent bottle with cover or a coffee can with lid taped to the can and a small opening at the top. Employers will then label the container “uncontaminated sharps” or use similar wording. These makeshift containers, once filled, sealed, and tossed into the regular garbage, also prevent waste haulers from being cut or punctured.
It should be noted that OSHA has a general waste disposal regulation at 29 CFR 1910.141(a)(4), and a portion of that regulation says, “All sweepings, solid or liquid wastes, refuse, and garbage shall be removed in such a manner as to avoid creating a menace to health and as often as necessary or appropriate to maintain the place of employment in a sanitary condition.”
Disposal of any waste must meet the state environmental agency’s waste disposal requirements. Employers may wish to contact their state for further guidance. Also, they may wish to check with their waste hauler to see what’s allowed in the way of uncontaminated sharps.