International Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month
Reading highlights safe disposal options as sharps injuries rise nationwide.
December is recognized as International Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month, an opportunity to educate communities about the safe handling and disposal of needles and other sharps. Improper disposal poses serious hazards to public health workers, custodial staff, sanitation teams, and community members.
In 2025, Reading generated 1,716 pounds of sharps, underscoring the importance of proper disposal practices.
To support residents, the Town of Reading provides a secure sharps disposal drop-off location in the basement of Town Hall at 16 Lowell Street. This service is available year-round to ensure that residents have a safe option for disposing of used needles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a place to drop off used sharps in Reading?
Yes. Residents can bring them to the designated drop-off at Town Hall.
Can needles be disposed of loosely in the collection bin?
No. All needles must be placed inside a closed plastic container, such as a laundry detergent bottle or milk jug, to prevent accidental injury to public health personnel.
Can medication be placed in the sharps bin?
No. Only empty sharps are accepted. This includes needles that are attached to devices, such as EPI-Pens or diabetic injectors, which cannot be placed in the bin.
Improper disposal, such as throwing needles in household trash or flushing them, poses a risk to workers and the environment. By using the town’s sharps disposal program, residents play an essential role in public safety.
For questions or further guidance, residents are encouraged to contact the Reading Health Division.
Flyer by the Town of Reading.
