I have two sharp boxes full of scalpel blades (all used in conservation so are none medical) but I am really struggling to find out how I can safely dispose of or recycle them.
I am in London and my local Pharmacy or GP won't take them.
Any ideas would be great. Thanks
Hello Rachel.
It is a difficult one if you have the proper "sharp box" for scalpels and your local pharmacy won't take them. Some councils will allow disposal with your normal waste as long as its in a well sealed box and clearly labelled as craft blades, non medical. Not sure if that is the case in London. Another suggestion I found was to contact a waste disposal contractor.
This leaflet is from the Westminster area. https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/498393/Downloads/4.53-WCC_Sharp_items_disposal_flyer_003.pdf?__hssc=185345910.1.1527256000252&__hstc=185345910.aba98b5eb3a0c0bd6f07314c62351627.1527256000251.1527256000251.1527256000251.1&__hsfp=1101964541&hsCtaTracking=790a1ea1-a3b1-40c2-8e1e-0609a1abe21d%7Ceed3d211-4c4b-43e2-91e8-8e915309937b
Hope this helps. Will keep an eye out for more advise.
best Zoe
Thanks Zoe.
I have always taken scalpels and Stanley blades to our recycling centre, in a closed container, and I believe they have put them in the metals waste. The attendants on site have said craft scalpels were fine, but, admittedly, I have not asked further if this is acceptable. Years ago I visited a museum in Russia and scalpels were so precious they resharpened them again and again. Admittedly, I have not done this myself but you have made me think that perhaps this would be an alternative solution (until they wear out!).
Thanks Lynne. I will get in touch with my local recycling centre and see if they will take them. I'm not too worried about sharpening blades as I know they can be recycled. If they just went into landfill, it would have to be considered!