Sharps waste is classified by the DHEC as biohazardous waste and care must be handled appropriately.  Some of the most common medical devices considered sharps waste are hypodermic needles, disposable scalpels and blades, contaminated glass, certain plastics, and dental wire.

Extreme caution must be used in the management, transport, and disposal of sharps waste. The goal of sharps waste management is to safely handle all materials until they can be properly treated and landfilled. That is why companies like Eastern MedWaste train their personnel in DOT regulations and OSHA Best Practices.  

Treatment methods vary due to State regulations, however, the two most common methods are either sterilization or incineration after being transported using an approved container to an appropriate facility.