Columbus Public Health operates the SHARP syringe access and disposal program under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3719, providing sharps containers and drop-off sites so used needles do not enter household trash, recycling, or public spaces.
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3719 governs drug abuse and harm-reduction programs, and Ohio Revised Code §3707.57 authorizes local health districts to operate syringe services. CPH's SHARP program distributes sterile syringes, naloxone, and rigid sharps containers, and accepts used sharps for safe disposal at clinic sites. Residents with diabetes or other home-injection needs can drop off sealed sharps containers at participating CPH and pharmacy sites; loose syringes must never go in curbside trash, recycling, or compost. Improperly discarded needles in public parks should be reported to 311 for collection by trained crews. Hospitals and clinics must follow Ohio EPA infectious-waste rules for medical-waste disposal.
Discarding loose syringes in regular trash, recycling, or public places can result in fines under city sanitation rules, and improper medical-waste disposal can trigger Ohio EPA enforcement against generators.
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