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Automated handling of reusable sharps containers

Summary OSHA reminded regional officials that reusable sharps containers may be used if opening, emptying, and cleaning are fully automated and do not expose servicing employees to percutaneous injury. Inspectors should also check applicable bloodborne pathogens and lockout/tagout standards.
Document
Federal guidance
Agency
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Document number
1995-02-21
Date issued
February 21, 1995
Status
Active
Status last verified October 9, 2026
Topics
Workplace Safety OSHA 1910 Bloodborne Pathogens Sharps
Source
View the official document

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About this page: The full text below is the official document from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Ezel adds the plain-English summary and tracks the document's status. The official source linked on this page is authoritative for any reliance.

February 21, 1995

MEMORANDUM FOR: ALL REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS

ATTENTION: BLOODBORNE COORDINATORS

FROM: JOHN B. MILES, JR., DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS

SUBJECT: Reusable Sharps Containers

The purpose of this memorandum is to provide a reminder to the field concerning OSHA's policy on the proper handling of reusable sharps containers. Reusable sharps containers are an acceptable alternative to disposable containers and are permitted if the risk to servicing employees is eliminated.

The Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard contains a provision under the housekeeping requirements in paragraph (d)(4) that states in part that reusable containers shall not be opened, emptied, or cleaned manually. Compliance with this provision can be accomplished if the reusable containers are designed to be opened, emptied and cleaned using a fully automated system, and if such procedures are actually accomplished with that automated system in a manner which does not expose employees to the risk of percutaneous injury.

During inspections conducted in facilities where reusable sharps containers are handled, CSHOs are reminded to ensure that the facility is in compliance with the Bloodborne Pathogens standard as well as other applicable standards such as the Lockout-Tagout standard.

Should you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact [the Office of Health Enforcement at (202) 693-2190].

------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Corrected 12/6/2024]

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