Needles in the Trash: NYC Raises Fines as Sanitation Workers Face Growing Injuries

Yisroel R.

A growing number of New York City sanitation workers are getting injured by used needles thrown into household garbage, prompting the city to more than double the fine for improperly disposing of the medical needles.

The Department of Sanitation reported 73 needle-related injuries among its workers so far this year, compared to just 37 during all of 2024. In response, the city has increased the fine from $100 to $250, with the new penalty taking effect this week.

The injuries can have serious consequences for workers. Even a single needle prick can require an emergency room visit, blood tests, and medication to prevent possible infections. Some workers also need to take time off while dealing with the side effects of the medication.

The problem comes as more New Yorkers use medications that require injections, including insulin for diabetes and popular weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. When the used needles are thrown directly into garbage bags, they can easily injure sanitation workers collecting the trash.

To help protect its workers, the Sanitation Department is also bringing in more garbage trucks and equipment that can lift and empty trash containers automatically, reducing the need for workers to handle garbage bags themselves.

City officials are reminding residents that throwing away used needles safely is simple. Needles and syringes should first be placed inside a strong plastic container, such as an empty laundry detergent bottle, which must be tightly closed and marked "home sharps" before being thrown into regular garbage.

Residents can also bring used needles to participating hospitals, nursing homes, or special collection locations instead of disposing of them at home.

The city hopes the higher fines, together with efforts to educate residents about proper disposal, will help reduce the growing number of injuries among sanitation workers.