SHARPS : Cuts due to careless handling of sharps such as sectioning razors, microtome blades etc. are probably the most common cause of injury in the biology lab. The only real remedy is to reduce the likelihood of such injuries through appropriate and adequate training of the work. If, for example, you cut your finger during dissection, you must regard the injury as serious because of the risk of introducing micro-organisms into the body from a contaminated instrument. Contamination is reduced by washing and sterilizing instruments after use.

Sharps are best stored in manufacturer's packaging if appropriate, although the use of plastic trays and partitioned drawers is useful. Sharps are dangerous all the time as their working surface can make contact with people or equipment - before, during and after use. Safe disposal is as important as safe storage and we recommend that you use the "post-box" method. This consists of a stout labelled box (not too big) which has a small opening or slot in the top. After use, the scalpel blade, lancet, needle or whatever, is simply posted through the slot, and when there are sufficient old sharps in the box, plaster of Paris is poured into the box. You can then throw the box away in the dustbin. This method can also be used for broken glassware.