Sharps Safety and Disposal

What is a Sharp?

"Sharps" are medical devices with a pointed tip or cutting edge that can pierce or cut the skin.

Common types of sharps include needles, syringes, lancets, auto-injectors, and infusion sets. These tools are often used outside of medical settings—such as at home, work, or while traveling—for routine care like injections, blood testing, or medication delivery. Proper use and disposal of sharps is essential to prevent injury and protect public health.

What DOES go in Sharps Containers

What DOES NOT go in Sharps Containers

Why Does Safe Disposal Matter?

Proper sharps disposal protects people and the environment.

It prevents injuries, reduces the spread of disease, and keeps harmful materials out of landfills and waterways.

Container Options for Used Sharps

Used sharps should be placed in a strong, puncture-resistant container to ensure safe disposal.
Whenever possible, use an FDA-cleared sharps container. These are specifically designed for safety and may come with your sharps, be provided by a healthcare professional, or purchased at a pharmacy or online.

If a sharps container is not available, you may use a strong plastic household container—such as an empty laundry detergent or bleach bottle with a tight-fitting, screw-on lid—as a temporary solution.

Sharps Disposal Locations

Ellenville Regional Hospital Location: Reception desk, ask for Rural Health Network Dept,10 Healthy Way, Ellenville Phone: 647-6400 ext. 215
HealthAlliance – Mary’s Ave Campus Location: Containers can be dropped off at the Information desk 105 Mary’s Ave., Kingston Phone: 845-338-2500 ask for Front Desk
Hudson Valley Rehabilitation & Care Center Location: Reception desk in lobby 260 Vineyard Ave, Highland Phone: 845-691-7201
Wingate at Ulster Location: Reception desk in lobby 1 Wingate Way off Route 9W, Highland Phone: 845-691-6800
Garnet Health Medical Center Location: 68 Harris-Bushville Road Harris, NY 12742 Enter main lobby and report to security. Accepting 8am-8pm 7 days a week Phone: 845-333-8870

What to do if injured by a sharp?

PEP or post-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication taken very soon after a possible exposure to HIV to prevent the virus from infecting the body.

PEP may be right for you if you are HIV-negative, or don’t know your HIV status, and have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours.

If you have been injured by a sharp, contact your health care provider immediately or go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic.

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