Syringe disposal boxes unlikely

It is looking increasingly unlikely that safe disposal boxes for used syringes will be installed in public areas around Narrogin.

The Shire of Narrogin said it was continuing to monitor the problem of incorrectly disposed syringes being left around town.

During the previous school holidays, residents expressed their frustration on social media after parents found used syringes near the Lions Park playground.

Shire of Narrogin chief executive Dale Stewart said chemists in town, as well as at the hospital, offered sharp disposal facilities.

“At this stage, we are not inclined to put in place, public facilities in our toilets or the main street because the warrant doesn’t seem to suggest the need for it,” he said.

Installation and maintenance costs are also a factor deterring the Shire from installing syringe disposal boxes in town.

“When you put sharp disposal containers in public areas, you then have an obligation to supervise, monitor and empty those facilities,” Mr Stewart said.

“That comes at a cost as well.

“Unless the number of incidents increases, there doesn’t appear to be a need for the council to authorise placement in the main street or public spaces.

“Hopefully people are doing the right thing and using the existing facilities, such as the chemists and hospital.”