What is in your recycling bin? Most of us have become accustomed to tossing paper and plastic into our recycling bins. In fact it has become such a habit that we assume plastic bottles go into the recycling bin no matter what material is inside the bottle. This practice has become dangerous for the workers who process and sort the recyclables. Workers are getting stabbed by syringes – mostly insulin needles – hiding in the recycling.
Despite the precautions of sleeves and double gloves, workers are being poked by the wayward needles, heightening workers’ concerns about exposure to diseases, including hepatitis and HIV.
These needles do not belong in recyclables or any trash. The proper way dispose of syringes is by using a sharps container, and taking the contents to medical office, pharmacy or landfill where it can be disposed of properly. However most people are taught to use a secure plastic container that is labeled and tape the lid shut. Too often these plastic containers end up in the recycling where they break open spilling their contents which mix with other recyclables. There is no penalty for throwing away a used needle in the recycling bin. Education is the only way to get the needles out of the recycling bin and disposed of properly. Simply go to Safe Needle Disposal and click on your state for more information. Want to help. You can spread the word by contacting your local media and help keep workers safe.
