Douglas City Council urges responsible disposal of needles

Hypodermic needles were discovered among recycling materials

Douglas City Council has issued a warning after used hypodermic needles were discovered among plastic recycling materials.

The authority is appealing to anyone using needles to dispose of them responsibly through designated sharps containers which are available at GP surgeries, hospitals, and local retailers.

Improperly disposed needles pose significant health and safety risks, including potential exposure to blood-borne pathogens, which can affect waste collection employees physically and psychologically.

“All waste collectors and processors on the Island face significant risks from used hypodermic needles,” the council said adding that, while proper training and personal protective equipment help mitigate these dangers, 'they can be entirely avoided through correct disposal practices'.