Discarded Syringes and Needles
Needles, syringes and other drug related items are being
increasingly discarded in the environment. There are a number of
hazards associated with handling these items and if discovered you
should contact us to have them safely removed and disposed
of.
If you find a discarded needle or syringe that you feel needs to be
removed immediately you should follow these guidelines:
- If possible pick it up wearing heavy duty gloves or use
tweezers or tongs, otherwise pick it up by the barrel end only and
never touch the sharp end;
- Place it carefully in a hard plastic bottle (not a glass
bottle) and screw the lid on tight. Do not wrap a syringe or needle
in a plastic or paper bag;
- Contact us to arrange for the collection of the container;
- Never throw the syringe or container down the toilet or place
them in a waste bin or recycling box.
If a needle or syringe is found discarded in a park or open space
and it cannot be removed safely, ring the Council as soon as
possible and we will come out and remove it as a matter of
priority.
When you phone, describe exactly where the needle or syringe can be
located and provide your contact details so that if our cleansing
team member cannot find the item, we can call you to confirm the
location.
To report a discarded needle or syringe please call 01562 732928 or
use our
online form
