Are used box cutter or utility knife blades required to go in a labeled or color-coded sharps container?

OSHA does not require that containers of “uncontaminated” sharps be labeled or color-coded in accordance with the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard at 29 CFR 1910.1030. Uncontaminated sharps are not considered regulated waste under the standard.

However, a “contaminated” sharp is any contaminated object that can penetrate the skin. Contaminated means the presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface. Contaminated is not just “visibly” contaminated.

Contaminated sharps are considered regulated waste and must be properly disposed of according to 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii). Contaminated sharps must be discarded in containers that are closable, puncture resistant, leak proof on the sides and bottom, and labeled or color-coded according to 1910.1030(g)(1)(i). The labels must include the biological hazard symbol and the word, “BIOHAZARD.” However, red containers may be substituted for labels.

Disposal of all regulated waste shall be in accordance with applicable regulations of the United States, states and territories, and political subdivisions of states and territories.