The University of Iowa

SAFETYmatters - Sharps Disposal Container Supply Shortages

A shortage in the supply of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared sharps disposal containers may occur during the COVID-19 mass vaccination campaign. Additionally, there are raw material shortages impacting manufacturers. CDC has issued guidance on what to do in the event facilities experience a shortage. Fact Sheets describing strategies for container use, and proper sharps disposal have been issued by CDC. EHS recommends that sharps containers be reserved for disposal of sharps only; non-sharps biohazardous waste should be disposed of in red bag-lined biohazardous waste tubs. Please refer to the Biohazard Waste Guidelines poster for additional information on how to properly dispose of biohazardous waste.