Clinical waste

If you find a needle or syringe DO PHONE DON'T TOUCH!

• If it's in a public place phone 03000 610610 during normal office hours (Mon to Fri 7am to 5pm) and 01491 824033 out of hours or e-mail admin.southoxford@biffa.co.uk to arrange to have it picked up.
• Remember the exact location - if possible stay at the site until the collection team arrives.
• Tell the owner if it's on private land or in a building.
• If you want to do something at your own risk, cover with a strong box or drinks can.
• Don't put the needle / syringe in a litter bin.

If you receive a needle stick injury:

Encourage the injury to bleed by gently squeezing.

DO NOT SUCK THE WOUND!

• Wash the area with soap and running water for at least five minutes.
• Cover with a waterproof plaster.
• Immediately visit your GP or accident and emergency department where you should enquire about the relevant immunisation.

You can report needles and sharp objects using the online form below:

• Needles and sharp object form

Information postcards

Information post cards about what you should do if you find a needle or syringe are available from the drugs and alcohol projects officer - call the community safety team on 01491 823607.

What are the hazards?

If a skin puncture is caused by a hypodermic needle the injured person is potentially infected with viruses including Hepatitis B and C, and HIV.

Needle Exchange

Regular users of syringes e.g. diabetics should contact their GP to arrange for needle disposal (this includes illegal drug takers). The needle disposal/exchange may be done either via the GP or through needle exchange charities. 

Needles found in the street, or other public place, will be collected by the council's contractor.  If you find a needle in such a place please report the incident.

Clinical Waste

The council's refuse contractor Biffa will collect type B clinical waste (which basically means dressings and incontinence pads) from domestic households on a weekly basis. Such collections have to be arranged via the district nurse who provide the first 'yellow' clinical waste bag. Collections are made at no charge and a new bag is left when the used bag is collected.