Preventing Needlestick Injuries

Needlestick safety can best be addressed in the setting of a comprehensive prevention program that considers all aspects of the work environment and that has employee involvement as well as management commitment.

You can help protect yourself from needlestick injuries by:

• avoiding the use of needles where safe and effective alternatives are available;
• helping your employer select and evaluate devices with safety features that reduce the risk of needlestick injury;
• using devices with safety features provided by your employer;
• avoiding recapping needles;
• planning for safe handling and disposal of needles before using them;
• promptly disposing of used needles in appropriate sharps disposal containers;
• reporting all needlestick and sharps-related injuries promptly to ensure you receive appropriate follow-up care;
• telling your employer about any needlestick hazards you observe; and
• getting a hepatitis B vaccination.