Health Department
SafeSharps
Residential Needle Disposal
Kent County residents now have an option for safe disposal of used needles. The Kent County Department of Public Works (KCDPW) and the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) are teaming up to ensure safe, confidential and environmentally sound disposal of certain medical materials through the SafeSharps Program (see SafeMeds drop off locations).
"Sharps" is the term for medical devices with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut skin. These items frequently end up in the waste stream and can injure waste handlers and other unsuspecting members of the public. Used sharps can transmit serious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis. Michigan has no law preventing residents from placing sharps in their household waste.
This item is NOT accepted in curbside recycling and should NOT be placed in the trash.
Kent County residents may request a free container from any KCHD facility. After completing a brief registration form, KCHD will issue a sterile approved container that users may take home. Once full, the container can be returned to any KCHD facility where it will be exchanged for a new one. KCHD also accepts any other sealed container such as a laundry container, bleach bottle, etc.
KCHD facilities will issue and accept containers during normal business hours (see below) at the following locations:
Kent County Health Department – 700 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
Sheldon Clinic – 121 Franklin SE, Grand Rapids
South Clinic – 4700 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood
North Clinic – 4191 17 Mile Rd. NE, Cedar Springs
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday
8:00am – 11:30am, 12:45pm – 4:45pm
1st/3rd/5th Thursdays of the Month
12:45pm – 4:45pm
2nd/4th Thursdays
10:00am – 12:30pm, 1:45pm – 6:45pm