How should sharps such as needles be disposed of?

Sharps, including needles, must be disposed of in red biohazard containers because these containers are specifically designed to safely contain and protect against the risks posed by sharps. The red color indicates that the contents are biohazardous waste, which requires careful handling and disposal to prevent injury and infection.

These containers are puncture-resistant and leak-proof, ensuring that sharp objects do not pose a risk to sanitation workers or others who might come into contact with waste materials. Proper disposal in a designated container is essential for infection control and public safety in healthcare settings and other locations where sharps are used.

Other disposal methods, such as using regular trash bins, closed plastic containers, or paper bags, do not provide the necessary safety measures for handling biohazardous waste and could lead to dangerous situations, such as accidental needlesticks or exposure to contaminated materials.