Because we are seeing an increased number of improper sharps disposal resulting in colleague injuries across our ministry, please remain mindful of, and practice the following:
- Always dispose of sharps via approved sharps containers only. If a bin is full, please contact Environmental Services immediately at extension 85226, or Stericycle from Monday – Friday from 5:00am ─ 1pm at 1.518.269.9573.
- Never dispose of sharps in trash cans, recycle bins or shred bins.
- Ensure trash cans are not directly under sharps bins. Please take immediate corrective action if you see this happening.
- Do not use bare hands to compact trash.
- After a code or cart call, clinical staff should inspect the area for sharps / needles / syringes and dispose of prior to allowing the Environmental Services team in to clean the room.
Sharps safety is everyone’s responsibility and strict adherence to the above protocols is essential to keeping everyone safe. Contact Colleague Safety Specialist / Workers Compensation Coordination, Beth Perry at elizabeth.perry@sjhsyr.org or 315.448.5611 with questions.