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What is a Sharps Container?

A sharps container is a specialized medical organizer designed for the safe collection of syringes, small glassware, razor blades, suture needles, and other sharp objects. These containers are single-use and mandated by regulations to be processed by medical waste disposal units within 24 hours and incinerated completely within 48 hours to ensure safety.

Types of Sharps Waste

According to the Classification Catalog of Medical Waste (2021 Edition) issued by the National Healthcare Commission, sharps waste refers to discarded medical sharps capable of causing injuries. Common examples include

Metal Sharps

Needles, suture needles, acupuncture needles, surgical saws, dermatomes, scalpels, and guide wires.

Glass Sharps

Coverslips, slides, glass ampoules, etc.


Sharps of Other Materials

Disposed based on similar safety concerns.


Evolution of Sharps Containers

Invented in 1979 by Frontier Medical in the UK, sharps containers have since been adopted worldwide. Over 40 years, they have become indispensable in hospitals, clinics, and public areas in over 200 countries. Governments in developed regions like Europe and the US have even provided free sharps containers in public spaces such as airports and shopping malls, enhancing public health safety. In developing countries, the use of disposable sharps containers is mandatory for healthcare facilities, underscoring their critical role in medical safety.

Types of Sharps Containers

Sharps containers are generally categorized by material

Paper Sharps Containers

Material:Corrugated paper; eco-friendly, durable, and bacteria-resistant.
Features:Built-in liquid-resistant designs.
Appearance:No
Common Sizes:

LitersSize
4L15*15*20cm
6L20*18*22cm
13L30.5*19.5*21cm
23L36*20*42cm

Main Manufacturers: Dailymag, Ming Yang Technology, Nippon Environmental Technology, Bole Plastic.

Plastic Sharps Containers

Material:Polypropylene; puncture-resistant and sealed to prevent leaks.
Features:Non-reopenable closures; avoids PVC for incineration safety.
Appearance: Yellow with clear warning labels.
Common Sizes:

LitersSize
1L11.5cm(d)*12.5cm
3L15cm(d)*17cm
6.5L20cm(d)*21cm
20L26.5cm(d)*33cm

Main Manufacturers: Lothee, Sijidou, Alcedo, Omszte.

Key Features of Quality Sharps Containers

Stability

Containers must remain upright during use.

Handle Strength

Handles should resist breaking during transport.

Fill Line Marking

Clearly indicate a safe fill level (up to 85% of total volume)

Closure

Once permanently sealed, the container must not reopen manually.

Secure Openings

Prevent accidental injuries during insertion.
Feature permanent and temporary closures to secure contents.
Public-area containers should prevent tampering.

Proper Usage Guidelines

  • Assemble the container by firmly attaching the lid.
  • For syringes:Insert the needle into the teardrop-shaped hole, snap, and let it fall into the container.
  • For infusion sets: Insert sharp parts into the large opening and cut with scissors to safely dispose of the sharp.
  • For other sharps:Drop directly into the large opening.
  • Disposal Process:
    - Seal the container when 70% full. Rotate the red disk clockwise until it clicks and press firmly to lock.
  • Inspect the container for defects before use.
  • Follow facility and local guidelines for medical waste disposal.
  • Do not reopen or overfill containers.
  • Never bend, recap, or handle needles by hand.
  • Use handles to carry the container, keeping it away from your body.
  • Clean the container’s exterior if contaminated.
  • Avoid dropping or throwing containers during transfer.

The Importance of Sharps Containers

Sharps injuries

Are among the most common occupational hazards for healthcare workers and a significant source of bloodborne pathogen transmission. Studies show that 10% to 36% of such injuries occur during disposal. Performance-safe sharps containers have been proven to minimize risks, making their use a cornerstone of medical waste safety.

Expanding Awareness

Tailored for specific environments, like dental sharps containers designed to hold small dental instruments, or operating room containers that have a larger capacity and opening design suited to surgical waste.

FAQ

Biosafe offers a comprehensive range of high-quality products, backed by 16 years of industry expertise. We excel in understanding global regulations, providing tailored solutions, and delivering reliable after-sales support through our network of local engineers.

All our products undergo rigorous quality checks and are CE-certified, ensuring they meet and exceed global regulatory standards. Our in-depth knowledge of international laws allows us to guide clients through compliance, no matter where they operate.

Yes, Biosafe maintains a robust inventory and offers fast delivery, including door-to-door services. We understand the urgency of medical waste management and are equipped to provide prompt support when you need it most.

Our commitment to customer satisfaction doesn’t end with the sale. We provide ongoing support through our local engineers, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly. We also offer guidance to help clients get the most out of our products and solutions.

Biosafe has extensive experience in assisting clients with medical product tenders. We provide expert guidance in product selection, compliance documentation, and tailored solutions to meet the specific requirements of each tender, helping our clients achieve success in competitive bidding processes.

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