It is the responsibility of the Enviromental Associate, routinely assigned to each patient care area, to check every sharps disposal container on a daily basis.
	Upon observing a container which is 3/4 full, or is likely to become 3/4 full within the next observation interval, the assigned Enviromental Associate will carefully snap the trap door on the disposable container closed, open the container holder using the designated key, remove the full container, and dispose of the container.
	Any contamination or soiling observable either on the outside or inside of the container holder will be wiped clean, using an EPA-approved disinfectant.
	In the event a sharps disposal box becomes full prior to the next scheduled observation when the assigned Environmental Associate is not available, (i.e., evening, nights, weekends or holidays) the container will be changed by calling the Department of Environmental Services and notifying them that a change of the full container is necessary or by unit-based personnel using the designated key, the locally available supply of replacement containers, and the process detailed above.
	Return all non-disposable needles and sharp instruments to the Central Sterile Supply (CSS) Department for decontamination and sterilization. Place the needles and sharp instruments into a covered, leak-proof, puncture proof container for transportation back to Central Sterile Supply for decontamination and sterilization prior to reuse. Separate linen, such as towels and drapes, from the reusable needles and sharp insturments. Do not wrap sharp objects and needles in linen or obscure them from the view of CSS personnel.