However, strict federal regulations govern what can and cannot be placed inside these containers.
Below is a guide to approved contents, prohibited items, and regulatory references to ensure safe, legal use of your mail-back system.
✅ Acceptable Items for Sharps Mail-Back Containers
Under DOT (49 CFR) and USPS (Publication 52, Section 346.240) guidelines for materials classified as UN3291 – Regulated Medical Waste, the following items are allowed:
1. Sharps Waste
Used hypodermic needles
Syringes (with or without attached needles)
Lancets
Scalpels and razor blades
Infusion sets and IV needles
Broken glass vials containing or formerly containing biohazardous material
All sharps must be non-radioactive, non-hazardous, and not chemically contaminated beyond trace levels.
2. Other Small Biohazardous Waste (Limited)
Small gauze pads, swabs, or bandages only if visibly contaminated with blood
Small volumes of items saturated with OPIM (other potentially infectious materials)
These items are acceptable only if they accompany sharps and do not compromise container integrity, weight limits, or liquid content thresholds.
🚫 Prohibited Items
Do NOT place the following inside sharps mail-back containers. Doing so may violate USPS, DOT, or OSHA regulations and result in fines or rejected shipments.
Medications (prescription or over-the-counter)
Hazardous waste pharmaceuticals (RCRA-listed or characteristic)
Controlled substances (DEA Schedule I-V)
Liquid blood or OPIM exceeding 50 mL
Radioactive materials (e.g., from cancer treatments)
Chemotherapy waste
Compressed gas cylinders or pressurized containers
Batteries or electronic devices
Household trash, food, or general garbage
📦 Mail-Back Container Requirements
To comply with USPS and DOT regulations, the sharps mail-back system you use must:
Be pre-approved by USPS under Publication 52
Meet 49 CFR 173.197 for packaging of regulated medical waste
Include rigid, puncture-resistant primary containers
Use absorbent material in case of leakage
Be clearly marked with:
UN3291 marking
Proper shipping name: "Regulated Medical Waste, n.o.s."
Biohazard symbol
Include prepaid return shipping and manifesting/tracking documents
PureWay’s mail-back systems are pre-approved and come with all required compliance features, making them safe, simple, and lawful.
🧾 Need Help?
PureWay offers a complete line of sharps mail-back systems for:
Individuals (home injectors, diabetics)
Small medical offices and clinics
Veterinary and dental practices
Pharmacies and retail health centers
We also provide:
OSHA-compliant training
Manifest tracking
State-specific disposal guidance
➡ Check your state’s regulations here
📌 Summary
Item | Allowed in Sharps Mail-Back? |
Used needles, lancets | ✅ Yes |
Syringes (with/without needles) | ✅ Yes |
Medication vials | ❌ No |
Blood-soaked gauze | ✅ If limited |
Controlled substances | ❌ No |
Chemotherapy waste | ❌ No |
Batteries, trash | ❌ No |
Questions? Contact PureWay
Our compliance experts are available to help you choose the right system and ensure your facility remains fully compliant.
🔗 www.pureway.com
📞 877-765-3030
✉️support@pureway.com