Despite what you might think sharps removal and disposal is a very dangerous and specialised process. A ‘dirty’ needle could be harbouring a whole host of blood-borne viruses. These could range from HIV to hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV). Although the risk of HIV infection from a single exposure is fairly low the consequences of such an infection would be life changing, as such it is never recommended for an amateur to partake in sharps removal, no matter how good their intention.

It should also be noted that HCV, unlike HIV, is frequently contracted from a single exposure. What makes this even more alarming is the prevalence of HCV among drug users, a group who are not renowned for their responsible disposal of used sharps. In fact a recent American study revealed that the HCV infection rate was around 86% among intravenous drug users in Tacoma, Washington. (Pollack, H. Can we Protect Drug Users from Hepatitis C? 2001). It is safe to assume that the infection rate is likely to be at a similar level in British cities with a similar demographic. In light of these factors it seems irresponsible not to leave sharps removal to trained professionals armed with the correct safety equipment.

One of the consequences of increased drug use in Britain is a growth in the areas where used sharps can be found. In the past drug use was usually kept out of the public domain, it occurred behind the closed doors of squats and other such locations but this is no longer the case. Sharps removal teams are regularly called to areas such as public parks, toilets, playgrounds and a whole host of other public areas where sharps are present. With the public coming into contact with used sharps on an ever increasing basis it is important that people are aware of how to treat a used needle and arrange for sharp removal. It should never under any circumstances be handled in any way, even with protective gloves. Upon discovering a used needle members of the public should contact the owner of the land where the sharp is situated.

Sharps removal should be left to professionals with industry approved equipment and the relevant expertise. It is only if sharps removal is performed in this way that we can work to neutralise the dangers that these objects pose to the general public.