Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyMedium
A barber is disposing of a used razor blade. Which of the following is the CORRECT procedure for safely handling and disposing of this item?
- AWrap it in paper and place it in a regular trash can.
- BPlace it in a puncture-resistant sharps container.
- CRinse it thoroughly and then discard it in a biohazard bag.
- DDull the blade and then dispose of it in a general waste receptacle.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Place it in a puncture-resistant sharps container.
Used razor blades are considered sharps and can transmit bloodborne pathogens. They must be placed immediately into a clearly labeled, puncture-resistant sharps container to prevent accidental injuries and exposure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Wrapping in paper does not prevent punctures and is unsafe.
- C. Rinsing is unnecessary and dangerous, and a biohazard bag alone is not puncture-resistant.
- D. Dulling a blade is impractical and still leaves a sharp edge; sharps containers are designed for safe disposal as-is.
Sharps Disposal
Sharps, such as used razor blades, must be immediately placed into a designated, puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps container to prevent accidental needlesticks or cuts and the spread of bloodborne pathogens.
- Used for needles, razors, broken glass.
- Container must be puncture-resistant.
- Must be labeled as 'biohazard' or 'sharps'.
- Do not overfill.
Memory trick: Sharp things go in a sharp bin, keeping everyone safe from within.