Sharps Disposal Day in Andover This Saturday

This was submitted by the Town of Andover. 

The State of Massachusetts now prohibits the disposal of needles, syringes, and lancets in regular trash. These, along with other medical devices that can puncture the skin, are collectively referred to as “sharps” and pose a serious threat to the health and safety of Massachusetts residents if improperly disposed of. Sharps that are inappropriately disposed of may cause injury or transmit blood-borne diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or even HIV, especially among custodial staff, sanitation workers, children, and pets.

For this reason, the Andover Health Division, in conjunction with the Andover Police Department/ DEA Medication take-back day, will be holding a Sharps disposal day on Saturday April 27^th at the West Elementary School from 10 p.m. to 2 p.m. Residents can bring both unwanted medication and sharps for proper disposal.

Used sharps must be brought in rigid, puncture-proof containers. Please use an appropriately sized container for the number of used sharps to be disposed.  Plastic bags or loose needles will not be accepted.  Sharps containers will be available for sale at the collection day.

Any questions please contact the Health Division at 978-623-8295.  Additional information is available on the Health Division page of the town website www.andoverma.gov/health. For more information, please visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website at http://www.mass.gov/dep/recycle/hazardous/medical.htm