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:
Liters | Size |
---|---|
4L | 15*15*20cm |
6L | 20*18*22cm |
13L | 30.5*19.5*21cm |
23L | 36*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:
Liters | Size |
---|---|
1L | 11.5cm(d)*12.5cm |
3L | 15cm(d)*17cm |
6.5L | 20cm(d)*21cm |
20L | 26.5cm(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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