How do I handle medical waste (sharps) disposal?

Improper disposal of sharps poses serious risks. For instance, drivers and waste collection workers may be stuck by needles during collection, potentially exposing them to health risks.

WM provides a convenient service called MedWaste Tracker®, which offers efficient and affordable prepaid mailing systems for managing sharps and medical waste. Here is how to safely dispose of your sharps:

• For residential disposal solutions, visit Think Green from Home.

• For commercial disposal solutions, visit WM MedWaste Tracker.

WM MedWaste Tracker® offers containers specifically designed for safe storage. Alternatively, use a rigid, leak-proof container with a secure lid, label it appropriately, and store it safely until disposal.

For more information on proper sharps disposal, visit SafeNeedleDisposal.org, which provides detailed guidance on this topic. You can also explore the Environmental Protection Agency's website by searching for “safe needle disposal,” or visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website and search for “sharps.”