How should sanitation workers deal with sharp objects found in trash?

Sanitation workers should always prioritize safety when dealing with sharp objects found in trash. The correct approach to handle sharp items, such as needles, broken glass, or metal fragments, is to use a tool or tongs to pick them up safely. This method minimizes the risk of injury that could result from direct contact with sharp edges.

Once picked up, these items should be placed in designated sharps containers, which are specifically designed to safely store and dispose of hazardous materials. These containers are usually puncture-resistant and well-marked, helping to ensure that they are handled appropriately during the disposal process. This practice aligns with safety regulations and best practices for waste management, protecting both the sanitation workers and the community from potential injuries and health hazards.

Other options, such as discarding sharp objects in regular bins, are unsafe because they do not provide adequate protection against injury or properly contain hazardous materials. Throwing sharp items into a secure area does not address the issue of safe disposal and could still pose risks to others who come into contact with them. Simply notifying local government authorities without taking appropriate action does not resolve the immediate safety concern. Therefore, using tongs and placing sharp objects in designated containers is the most effective and safe method for sanitation workers to handle sharp