Trash Talk: Sharps

Here’s how to safely dispose of “sharps,” a medical term for devices with points or edges that can puncture or cut skin, such as needles or syringes.     ▶ Click here to go back to Trash Talk: Overview.
  1. If you are comfortable picking them up, please secure them in a strong plastic “biohazards” container or an alternative strong plastic bottle (like Gatorade bottles or detergent bottles) with a secured cap. Typical water and soda bottles have thinner, weaker plastic and can be penetrated by needles. Do not hold the container when putting a needle into it, as you could risk piercing your hand. Rather, set the container on the ground, away from your feet.
  2. In Santa Fe, sharps can be dropped off at these locations, according to the New Mexico Department of Health.
  3. Alternatively, you can drop the container into your household trash can, NOT recycling. Just make sure that the container is clearly labeled “Sharps” or “Needles” and ensure the cap is securely closed.
  4. If you are not comfortable picking sharps up, you can contact Southwest Care at 505-490-1147 to report the location and they will collect them.
For more information on proper sharps disposal, visit: https://www.sfswma.org/hazardous-waste/medical-waste/

In May 2024, we teamed up with Southwest Care’s Max Avery for a workshop on the proper collection and disposal of needles and other biohazards. Check out this video of Max on how we can reduce the risk of cuts or punctures from throwing away loose sharps.