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.

Dispose of sharps safely so no one gets hurt

Put all needles and other sharps in a sharps disposal container right after using them. This reduces the risk of needle-sticks, cuts, or punctures.

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 it in the trash.
3. When the container is full, seal it. 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.

For more information go to the DNR household waste website.

Syringe Services Program

You can dispose of used syringes and get new syringes at our offices.

Our Locations

• 2705 E. Washington Ave., Madison
  • 8:30am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
• 2300 St. Park St., Suite 2010 second floor, Madison
  • 8:30am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. 

Other Community Locations

• Community Pharmacy, 130 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Madison
  • 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday
  • (608) 251-4454
• Lifepoint Syringe Services/Vivent Health, 600 Williamson St., Suite H, Madison
  • 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday
  • (608) 332-6169

Resources

Be Smart With Sharps, US Food and Drug Administration