How should sharps containers be handled?

Sharps containers must be maintained upright throughout use, replaced routinely, and not be allowed to overfill.

When removing sharps containers from the area of use, the containers shall be:

• Closed immediately before removal or replacement to prevent spillage or protrusion of contents during handling, storage, transport, or shipping.
• Placed in a secondary container if leakage is possible, which must be:
  • Closable;
  • Constructed to contain all contents and prevent leakage during handling, storage, transport, or shipping; and
  • Labeled or color-coded according to paragraph (g)(1)(i) of the standard.
• Reusable containers shall not be opened, emptied, or cleaned manually or in any other manner which would expose employees to the risk of percutaneous injury.

Upon closure, duct tape may be used to secure the lid of a sharps container as long as the tape does not serve as the lid itself.