How to Choose a Sharps Container
Quick Answer
Choose a sharps container based on the type and volume of sharps generated, point-of-use placement, closure system requirements and applicable certification (SANS 452). Fill only to ¾ capacity.
What Belongs in a Sharps Container?
- Used needles and syringes
- Lancets and blood sampling devices
- Scalpel blades and sharp instruments
- Contaminated broken glass
Do not recap, manipulate or manually compact sharps. Do not use improvised containers such as drink cans or household bottles.
Size Selection Guide
| Container Size | Best For | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 L (small) | Point-of-use, limited quantities, portability | GP rooms, vaccination sites, home injection |
| 5–7 L (medium) | Routine healthcare areas, moderate volume | Dental clinics, outpatient departments |
| 10–25 L (large) | High-volume areas, central collection | Hospital wards, operating theatres |
SANS 452 Requirements
SANS 452 specifies performance requirements for sharps containers including:
- Puncture resistance
- Closure integrity (temporary and permanent)
- Leakage control
- Strength and handling
- Transport compatibility
Colour Coding
Sharps containers are typically yellow with the biohazard symbol and "DANGER CONTAMINATED SHARPS" marking. Always follow your facility's waste management plan.
Safety Rules
- Place within arm's reach of procedure site
- Fill only to ¾ capacity
- Close temporarily between uses
- Seal permanently when full or at end of session
- Store upright in designated area
- Never reopen once permanently sealed