Safer Sharps Handling and Disposal

---

On This Page

 

1. Retrieve and dispose of sharps

2. Needle drop off bin locations in Sault Ste. Marie, Blind River & Elliot Lake

3. Looking for Sharps/Needle Containers?

4. Locations of Needle Exchange Programs in Algoma

 

---

Retrieve and dispose of sharps safely

 

Algoma Public Health (APH) and the City of Sault Ste. Marie would like to remind residents to be careful if they come across discarded needles. For the most part, people who use needles take steps to dispose of them properly. However, as the snow melts, you may find needles on the ground. 

Sault Ste. Marie

In Sault Ste. Marie, if needles are found on public property, citizens may call the Public Works and Engineering Department at 705-759-5201 to arrange for pickup and proper disposal by City staff.

Elliot Lake

In Elliot Lake, if needles are found in city parks or city property please call 705-915-0357.

---

 

Sharps (needles) may pose a risk of physical harm or serious blood-borne infections if handled inappropriately. It is important to pick up and dispose of them properly

 

DO:         Use a pair of tongs, pliers or tweezers to pick up the needle. It is best to wear rubber gloves Pick the needle up by pointing the needle tip down and away from you. Put the needle in a hard plastic container several millimeters thick with a tight lid and tape the lid shut.

 

DO NOT: touch the object recap bend purposely break or remove the needle from the syringe

 

Needle Drop Bins

 

An alternative option for needle disposal is to use the Needle Drop Bins that are throughout the city that will allow for 24-hour disposal. The Needle Drop Bins provide an option for the public to safely drop off any used needles found in the community. Please use the instructions above and place only small hard plastic containers with lids in the Drop Bins.

1. John Howard Society

2. Southeast corner of Gore and Albert E, on Albert St.