Tamil - Australian Diabetes Council

Sharps disposal
What are “community sharps”
Community sharps are medical devices that penetrate the skin and
are used in the home.
They include:
• Needles – used to give injections, draw blood or insert insulin
pump tubing
• Syringes (even if needle removed)
• Pen needles for insulin pens
• Blood glucose or finger pricker lancets.
Your used sharps must be secured in a strong puncture resistant
container, Australian Standard Sharps containers (available from the
Australian Diabetes Council and some pharmacies) or a puncture
resistant plastic container with a screw top lid are suitable.
Sharps must NOT be placed in any rubbish or recycling bins.
How do I dispose of my community sharps
Place sharps in an appropriate container. Dispose of containers only into community sharps
disposal facilities found at:
• Public hospitals
• Participating pharmacies
• Community sharps disposal bins
• Needle and syringe program outlets.
For a list of sharps disposal facilities in your area contact your local council or phone the
Australian Diabetes Council on 1300 342 238.
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