There are a couple of circumstances where you might cite improper sharps use. One might be where you observe or learn that the lab worker is using the wrong sharp tool for the job or using improper technique. The other, more likely, circumstance is when you observe sharps that are not properly cared for or stored.
These exhibits show improper storage. Exhibit A shows an unprotected needle lying on the floor. Exhibit B shows unprotected needles on the countertops. Needles and razor blades should be stored in a sheath or protected by other means that prevent accidental injury while in use or disposed in a proper sharps container when finished using.
Some examples of protecting razor blades is to push them blade-down into Styrofoam or using a magnetic strip on a shelf to keep them off the benchtop. A few examples of situations that you might observe related to improper use or technique include:
- Recapping needles using two hands. A one-handed technique is recommended if a needle must be recapped because it is not a single use device. Single use devices should be disposed in a proper sharps container without recapping;
- Handling broken glassware with bare hands;
- Using a pocket-knife to cut tubing rather than scissors or utility knife.