When should you stop using a sharps container?

A sharps container should be stopped from use when it is 2/3 full, as this is a widely accepted standard in various health and safety guidelines. The reasoning behind this is that filling the container only to 2/3 capacity ensures that there is enough space for the safe disposal of additional sharps without creating a risk of overflow.

If a sharps container is filled to the top or is overflowing, it could lead to accidental injury from sharps that protrude from the container, posing significant safety risks. Additionally, maintaining a 2/3 full limit allows for better handling and transport of the container, minimizing the potential for exposure or accidents during disposal procedures.

Therefore, utilizing the 2/3 full guideline helps promote compliance with safety regulations and protects both personnel and the environment from potential hazards associated with improperly managed sharps waste.