Fact Sheet - Sharp Smarts: Care and Be Aware
1. What is Sharp Smarts: Care and Be Aware?
Sharp Smarts: Care and Be Aware is the campaign slogan for the Region’s safe sharps disposal program.
2. What is a sharp?
When used in a medical context, a sharp is identified as a needle, syringe or lancet. These are all objects that lacerate the skin and come in contact with bodily fluids.
3. Who is implementing this initiative?
The Waste Management division of the Public Works department at the Region of Peel is implementing this initiative through its household hazardous waste drop off locations located at the Regional Community Recycling Centres.
4. Why are sharps dangerous?
Once used, sharps are dangerous. They become bio-medical waste with the potential to harm anyone who comes in contact with them.
5. How can a sharps user limit the danger associated with sharps?
One way sharps users can limit the danger associated with their sharps is by disposing of them in approved biohazard containers. These containers are clearly marked with a biohazard symbol and are designed to safely contain bio-medical waste.
6. Where can residents in the Region of Peel pick up an approved biohazard container?
Residents in the Region of Peel can pick up an approved biohazard container at any Regional Community Recycling Centre, free of charge.
7. Why is this initiative being implemented?
This initiative is being implemented to protect anyone that may come in contact with sharps, including: residents, waste operators and pets. The Region is committed to providing environmentally responsible waste management services.
8. When is this initiative being implemented?
Household Hazardous Waste Operators are already distributing biohazard containers to people who are dropping off their sharps at Community Recycling Centres. Starting January 2005, Community Recycling Centres will not accept sharps unless they are stored in a biohazard container.