Needle and Syringe Programs (NSP) are an effective strategy in reducing the transmission of blood-borne viruses (such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV) amongst people who inject drugs.

In WA, used needles and syringes may be safely disposed on in one of the following ways:

• placing the item(s) in a rigid walled, plastic container with a screw-on top (such as a plastic juice bottle, milk bottle, soft drink bottle or Fitpack®) and disposing of the container in a domestic rubbish bin
• returning the item(s) to a needle and syringe exchange program (NSEP)
• using a specific needle and syringe disposal bin provided by some local governments or businesses

What to do if you find a discarded needle and syringe:

1. Do not be alarmed

2. Get a container with a well-secured lid, preferably screw top. Avoid using glass, which can shatter, or aluminium that can be squashed

3. Bring the container to the needle and syringe

4. Pick up the used needle and syringe by the blunt end, away from the point. Do not touch the sharp point

5. Do not try to put the plastic protective cover back on a needle if it has fallen off

6. Put the needle and syringe, point first into the container. More than one can be placed in the container, but do not overfill. Do not carry the needle and syringe unless it is a suitable container

7. Make sure the container is tightly sealed

8. Put the sealed container in a domestic rubbish bin (mobile green bin). Do not put needles and syringes down toilets, in recycling bins or post boxes

What to do if you injure yourself with a discarded needle:

• wash the area gently with soap and running tap water as soon as possible
• apply an antiseptic and a clean dressing
• obtain prompt medical advice from your local doctor or hospital emergency department, preferably within 24 hours
• place the needle in a rigid plastic container and take it with you to your doctor

Remember

Do not panic, take reasonable care and follow the above steps. Tell children never to pick up a needle, but to tell an adult.

Problem areas

If you are regularly finding needles and syringes in a particular area, please contact your local government environmental health officer.