Massachusetts residents must take sealed containers of used sharps to a drop-off site or arrange a mail-back service. Please check this page for disposal options in your area. If there is no disposal program near you, contact your local health department or solid waste department.
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Put used sharps in a heavy-duty, plastic container. |
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When the container is about three-quarters (3/4) full, put the lid on, seal it with duct tape, and label: DO NOT RECYCLE. Do not throw the container in the trash or recycling |
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Use our locator to find container disposal options near you. |
Most cities and towns in Massachusetts have disposal locations. Call the program to confirm if there are any container requirements, disposal fees or residency restrictions. Click here for information on pharmaceutical company takeback programs.
A statewide ban on the disposal of needles, syringes and lancets went into effect on July 1, 2012, amending Regulation 105 CMR 480.00 Minimum Requirements for the Management of Medical or Biological Waste (State Sanitary Code Chapter VII). Most Massachusetts communities have a disposal drop-off location or accept sharps at household hazardous waste day events. If there is no program in your community, contact your city or county health department.
Medical sharps must be stored and disposed of in a sealable, puncture-resistant container. Home sharps containers can be purchased at most pharmacies. Disposal sites will not accept loose needles or sharps in bags or glass containers.
Sharps users may be able to take their filled sharp container to local collections sites, however, sites may be limited in some areas. If available, sharps disposal options in your area can be found using our Locator tool.
