Watch our for Needles: Staying Safe at Work

Watch Out for Needles: Staying Safe at Work

Janitorial workers face a hidden danger: needles.

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) warns that needles can be found anywhere, especially in bathrooms near toilets, sinks, and under dispensers.

Here’s how to stay safe:

  • Be aware: Look before reaching into hidden areas, use tools for limited visibility, and wear puncture-resistant gloves when handling trash bags or bins. Never touch needles with bare hands.
  • If stuck by a needle:
    • Seek immediate medical attention and inform them it happened at work.
    • File a workers’ compensation claim with your healthcare provider.
    • Report the incident to your employer.

By following these simple steps, janitorial workers can protect themselves from the risks of needlesticks and ensure a safe work environment.

Manual Needle Destruction

Manual Needle Destroyers: Safe Sharps Disposal for Healthcare

In some parts of the world where safety needles and syringes will be used it is important to make traditional needles as safe as possible.

Used needles and syringes pose a risk of infection and must be disposed of safely. Manual needle destroyers are essential tools for healthcare workers, offering several benefits:

  • Reduced needlestick injuries: Destroyers safely deactivate needles at the point of use, minimizing accidental pricks.
  • Safer waste disposal: Destroyed needles are contained within the device, preventing environmental contamination.
  • Regulation compliance: Facilitates proper disposal according to healthcare waste regulations.
  • Cost-effective: Helps reduce healthcare costs associated with needlestick injuries.

By promoting safety, minimizing environmental risks, and ensuring compliance, manual needle destroyers are crucial for responsible medical waste management in healthcare settings.

.