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Sharpsafe containers: how to safely dispose of medical sharpsNews
Claudia Bogaers
In any healthcare facility – be it a hospital, general practice or pharmacy – safety and hygiene are absolute priorities. One of the greatest risks in the medical sector are needlestick injuries, often caused by carelessly discarded needles. So a good needle container is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Why proper sharps disposal matters
Risks of needlestick injuries
Needlestick injuries can lead to serious infections with viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV. Hundreds of needlestick accidents happen each year, often avoidable with proper collection methods. A safe needle container prevents used needles from coming into contact with healthcare providers, cleaning staff or patients.
Legal obligations
In Belgium, healthcare facilities are required by law to properly collect and dispose of medical waste, including sharps. This is described in the recommendations of the High Health Council (HGR 8429).
Applications in hospital, pharmacy and home care
Needle containers are not only mandatory in hospitals. Pharmacies, home nurses and general practitioners must also ensure safe disposal of sharps. Even patients who inject insulin at home are encouraged to use an approved needle container.
Types of needle containers and their applications
Needle containers come in different shapes and sizes, depending on use.
Different volumes
Sharpsafe offers containers in volumes from 0.2L to as much as 30L. Small models are ideal for mobile home nursing, while larger containers are suitable for hospital wards or laboratories.
Inlets and check valves
A safe needle container is equipped with a check valve so that used needles cannot come back up. This significantly increases safety.
Single-use versus refillable
Needle containers are designed for single use: once full, they are closed and disposed of as medical waste. Please note that reuse is not permitted!
What is a Sharpsafe needle container?
Sharpsafe is a leading brand in medical waste disposal, with a focus on safety and ease of use. At Hospidex, you’ll find a complete range of Sharpsafe containers in various sizes.
European standards & certifications
Sharpsafe meets the strictest European standards such as ISO 23907 and contributes to a safe working environment in healthcare.
Benefits of Sharpsafe
- Safe: Check valve and permanent closure prevent accidental contact.
- Sustainable: Made from recyclable materials.
- Transport-ready: Containers are leak-proof, odor-free and equipped with handles or mounting brackets.
What to look out for when buying a needle container?
Volume & frequency of use
Choose the appropriate volume according to use. A home care nurse usually suffices with a 1L container, while an emergency department is better off choosing 7L or more.
Placement in space
Safe use starts with proper placement: on the wall, on a trolley or in a special holder. Hospidex offers accessories for every situation.
Compatibility with waste disposal
Choose a brand such as Sharpsafe that is widely recognized by waste handlers in Belgium.
Buy needle containers at Hospidex
Hospidex is the exclusive distributor of Sharpsafe needle containers in Belgium, offering a complete range of products and support for healthcare professionals.
Curious about the products?
- Needle container 1L – compact and convenient
- Needle container 30L – ideal for larger volumes
- … and many other models tailored to your practice.
Advice and support
Not sure which model is right for you? Our experts are ready to help. Whether you manage a hospital department or are self-employed, we think with you.
Have a question about this article? Contact.
Kimberlie Hanna
MARKETING MANAGER
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