According to OSHA, where may a contaminated needle be safely discarded?

A contaminated needle should be safely discarded in a sharps container, which is specifically designed for the disposal of sharp objects that can puncture or cut. These containers are made of puncture-resistant material, ensuring that even if the needles are still contaminated, they are securely contained and cannot pose a risk of injury or infection to individuals handling waste.

The design of sharps containers often includes features such as a tight-fitting lid, a visible fill line to indicate when the container is full, and some may even have safety mechanisms that reduce the chance of needlestick injuries. This follows OSHA guidelines that dictate safe handling and disposal of medical waste, especially sharps, to protect healthcare workers, waste management personnel, and the general public.

In contrast, other disposal methods listed, such as regular trash bins or glass containers, do not provide the necessary safeguards against injuries or contamination and are not compliant with OSHA regulations. Biohazard bags may be used for certain types of medical waste but are not intended for sharps, which require the more secure disposal method offered by sharps containers.