FAQs

I live regionally, where can I dispose of my sharps?

Depending on your location, you can go to a needle and syringe exchange program (NSEP), currently operated in:

• Mandurah by the South Metro Community Drug Service – Palmerston Mandurah
• Albany by the Great Southern Population Health Unit NSEP
• Geraldton by the Midwest Community Drug Service
• Kalgoorlie by the Goldfields Population Health NSEP
• South Hedland by the Pilbara Population Health Unit NSEP

Find out more about where to access these services

You can also dispose of them in the special needle and syringe disposal unit provided by some local governments or businesses.

I have diabetes, am I able to dispose of my syringes at WAAC?

Unfortunately, we are unable to dispose of syringes for people with diabetes. We suggest calling the National Diabetes Services Scheme on 1300 136 588

How many syringes can I exchange at one time?

There is no limit to how many syringes/needles you may exchange. We work on a one for one exchange basis, so we will give you as many syringes (or fewer) as you bring back. If you do not have any syringes to exchange, you are able to buy them at low cost price. See our price list for all costings.

I found a syringe on the ground in public, what do I do?

1. Do not be alarmed.
2. Get a rigid-walled, puncture resistant, plastic container with a well-secured lid, preferably screw top. Avoid using glass which can shatter, aluminium that can be squashed or frosted plastic that may not be puncture-proof.
3. Bring the container to the needle and syringe, and place on the ground next to the needle and syringe. Do not hold the container as you are putting the syringe in it.
4. Pick up the used needle and syringe by the blunt end, away from the point. Do not touch the sharp point.
5. Do not try to put the plastic protective cap back on a needle if it has been removed.
6. Put the needle and syringe, point first into the container. More than one needle and syringe can be placed in the container, but do not overfill. Do not carry the needle and syringe unless it is in a suitable container.
7. Make sure the container is tightly sealed.
8. Put the sealed container in a domestic rubbish bin. Do not put needles and syringes down toilets, in recycling bins or post boxes.

I have pricked myself with a discarded syringe, what do I do?

1. Wash the area gently with soap and running tap water as soon as possible.
2. Apply an antiseptic and a clean dressing.
3. Obtain prompt medical advice from your local doctor or hospital emergency department, preferably within 24 hours.
4. Dispose of the needle safely.