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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Evaluation of the Feasibility, Safety, and Accuracy of an Intraoperative High-intensity Focused Ultrasound Device for Treating Liver Metastases

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UK safety-engineered device use: changes since the 2013 sharps regulations.

¹Grimmond and Associates, Microbiology Consultants, Hamilton, New Zealand.

Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England)

|August 4, 2019

Summary

Safety-engineered devices (SEDs) use increased significantly in UK hospitals, but a concerning percentage remained non-activated or were discarded improperly. Enhanced training and adherence to safe sharps practices are crucial for preventing occupational exposures.

Keywords:

Activation healthcare needlestick occupational regulations safety-engineered devices sharps injury

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Area of Science:

Healthcare safety
Occupational health
Medical device regulation

Background:

UK regulations mandate safety-engineered devices (SEDs) to protect healthcare staff from sharps injuries.
A rise in reported occupational exposures suggests potential issues with SED use or reporting.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the utilization and effectiveness of safety-engineered devices (SEDs) in UK hospitals.
To analyze sharps container contents to assess compliance with safety regulations.

Main Methods:

Reusable sharps containers (RSCs) were analyzed from UK hospitals in 2013 and 2016.
Hollow-bore needles (HBNs) were categorized based on device type, activation status, and disposal method.

Main Results:

SED utilization increased from 70% in 2013 to 93% in 2016.
Despite increased use, 22% of SEDs were not activated, and 20% of sharps were discarded improperly in 2016.
Significant reductions were observed in uncapped needles and sharps discarded 'sharp' over the study period.

Conclusions:

While SED use has improved, suboptimal practices like non-activation and improper disposal persist.
Enhanced training and consistent adherence to safe sharps handling protocols are recommended.
Promoting individual accountability in safety practices is essential for reducing occupational exposures.