Definitions:

1. Unregulated Sharps- In accordance with Virginia Regulated Medical Waste Regulations 9 VAC 20-120-130.C.2, any sharps that are generated by a “household” and placed in an opaque container with a high degree of puncture resistance. These sharps must be free of organisms that are likely to be pathogenic to healthy humans.
2. Regulated Sharps- Any sharp generated by professional health care providers. Any sharp likely to be contaminated with organisms likely to be pathogenic to healthy humans.
3. Professional Health Care Provider- Any persons holding a valid certificate or license, issued or recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia, qualifying the individual to provide any type of medical, health, or veterinary service.
   (For Example: E.M.T., L.P.N., R.N., M.D. )

Procedures for Collection and Disposal of Unregulated Sharps:

1. Packaging Unregulated Sharps - Unregulated sharps must be placed in an opaque plastic bottle with a high degree of puncture resistance. The container must be securely sealed with a screw on type cap. The cap must be taped with a waterproof tape around the circumference.
2. Frequency of Collection - Plastic bottles containing unregulated sharps will be collected on Wednesday of each week between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. It is the responsibility of the generator to arrange for collection by calling the Street & General Maintenance Department (375-3039) at least 24 hours before collection. The generator may also deliver the container to the Street & General Maintenance Department, 1228 Indiana Street, Monday through Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
3. No Sharps are to be placed in Collection Totes or Dumpsters- Any dumpster or collection tote found to contain sharps will not be emptied or collected by City Personnel.
4. Unregulated Sharps - Those sharps properly packaged, delivered to the Street & General Maintenance Department will be placed on a transportation vehicle for transport to a sanitary landfill for final disposal.