Last Revised: January 15, 2025
Standard Operating Procedure for the Disposal of Sharp Objects in Laboratories (pdf)
This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) applies to the disposal of all sharps at the University of Pennsylvania. Sharps disposal is regulated by the state of Pennsylvania. Sharps are items that have the potential to puncture a plastic bag and include both infectious waste used sharps and sharps that pose a safety hazard to custodians and other personnel. All sharps must be segregated according to hazard class and disposed in infectious waste sharps containers or glasswaste box, if appropriate.
Click on poster below to enlarge.
Refer questions about the disposal of sharps to EHRS at 215-898-4453 or email the Biosafety Team.
For information on the proper disposal of noninfectious glassware see the Laboratory Glassware/ Plasticware Disposal Policy.
Reusable Sharps Container Program
Labs can sign up for the Reusable Sharps Container Program by contacting ADVANT-EDGE SOLUTIONS OF MIDDLE ATLANTIC, INC (ASI). Labs in the Vet and Engineering Schools, and Chemistry Departments should contact their building administrator to opt into the program. Details about the program and how to sign up can found at Penn Reusable Sharps Container and Regulated Medical Waste Account Representatives | Penn Procurement Services