Public Health Madison & Dane County

Needle & Syringe Disposal

Used needles and other sharps are dangerous if they are not disposed of safely. They can hurt people and spread infections that cause serious health conditions.

It is important to package and dispose of sharps safely to avoid hurting yourself or others.

Proper Disposal

Place all needles and other sharps in a sharps disposal container immediately after use. This reduces the risk of needle-sticks, cuts, or punctures.

For more information go to the DNR household waste website.

1. Put the syringe, needle first, in a sharps container or a rigid, puncture-resistant container like a plastic laundry detergent bottle with a secure lid or cap.
2. Clearly label the container with the words “biohazard,” “infectious waste,” or “sharps.” Do not put in the trash.
3. When the container is full, seal it and dispose of it safely. Options for disposal include:
   • Pharmacies in Dane County that offer sharps collection.
     • Madison participating pharmacies
     • Dane County participating pharmacies and other collection sites 
   • Ask your doctor, clinic or local hospital if you can bring sharps to their location for disposal.
   • Use a sharps mail-back program.

Syringe Services Program

Our Syringe Services Program provides a place to dispose of used syringes and get new syringes to reduce the spread of infection.

Locations and Hours

• 2705 E. Washington Ave., 8:30 - 4:30pm. No need to call ahead - our doors are open, and you can just walk in.
• 2300 St. Park St., Suite 2010 second floor, 8:30 AM - 4:30pm. Call (608) 773-0638 for service.
• 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 8am - 4:30pm. Call (608) 716-9900 for service and be sure to say which entrance you are calling from.

Resources

Be Smart With Sharps, US Food and Drug Administration