Sharps program received 15,570 needles in 2018

By Haldimand Press Staff

HALDIMAND—In response to reports of needles and other sharps, the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit (HNHU) Harm Reduction team installed nine sharps disposal kiosks throughout Haldimand and Norfolk counties in 2018, which saw a total of 15,570 needles deposited.

“Over a four-month period, 7,600 needles/syringes were disposed in the sharps kiosks. This is an important step in helping our communities to be safer by reducing the risk of needle-stick injuries and ensuring that people can access sharps disposal without barriers,” said Tamara Robb, public health nurse.

The program is part of a harm reduction strategy to reduce the number of needles and syringes found discarded in the community. It is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

“People in our community use needles/sharps for many reasons and there is a need for 24-hour public access to safe places to dispose of them,” said Stephanie Tooke, public health inspector.

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