Do not put used needles or other sharps in any type of household bin or a container that's no longer needed, such as a drinks can or bottle. Needles can cause injuries and can carry blood-borne viruses that may be passed on to other people.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) splits clinical waste into two categories:

  • Waste which poses a risk of infection
  • Medicinal waste

Clinical waste is mainly created by hospitals, health clinics, doctors' surgeries and veterinary practices. It can also be created by residential homes, nursing homes and private households.

We are licensed to collect low grade clinical waste which includes:

  • Incontinence pads
  • Nappies

Absorbent Hygiene Product collection service

We appreciate that some households will need additional help to dispose of disposable nappies and incontinence products now the green bin is collected every four weeks. To help householders we have introduced an additional collection service for Absorbent Hygiene Products (AHP).

To qualify for this service householders are required to complete an application form and, following approval, the collection day will be confirmed and bags to collect the AHP will be provided.

You can also use your green bin for disposable nappies and incontinence products. We recommend this material is double bagged and your green bin should be put out for collection as normal.

For more information about clinical waste, please visit SEPAs website.

Syringe and sharps box disposal

Sharps boxes should not be put in any of your kerbside bins. Sharps boxes will have instructions on disposal, but if you are unsure, check with your pharmacy or GP.

The NHS website has more information.