Global Sharps Containers Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In June 2018, Toter, LLC introduced a 35-gallon medical waste cart, designed for use in a variety of medical facilities to dispose of both infectious and non-infectious waste.

• In July 2016, MAUSER Group announced its acquisition of Daniels Healthcare Group, a company that manufactures and markets medical waste containers for hospitals, surgical centers, and the clinical waste sector.

The global sharps containers market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, primarily driven by the increasing emphasis on healthcare safety and regulations pertaining to the disposal of medical waste. Sharps containers play a crucial role in healthcare settings by providing a safe and secure method for the disposal of needles, syringes, and other sharp medical instruments, thereby reducing the risk of needlestick injuries and the transmission of infectious diseases. With the rise in healthcare-associated infections and stringent regulations governing medical waste management, the demand for sharps containers is expected to continue growing.

One of the key factors contributing to the growth of the sharps containers market is the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, which require frequent administration of injectable medications. This has led to an increase in the usage of sharps containers in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities worldwide. Moreover, the expansion of the healthcare sector in emerging economies and the growing awareness about infection control measures are further driving market growth.

In addition to traditional healthcare settings, the demand for sharps containers is also increasing in non-medical environments such as households, pharmacies, and laboratories. This can be attributed to the rising adoption of self-administered therapies and the need for safe disposal solutions outside of healthcare facilities. Manufacturers are focusing on developing innovative sharps containers with features such as leak-proof seals, tamper-evident closures, and puncture-resistant materials to enhance safety and convenience for end users.

Despite the favorable market outlook, certain factors such as concerns regarding environmental sustainability and the high cost associated with specialized sharps disposal systems could hinder market growth to some extent. Nevertheless, ongoing efforts by regulatory authorities and industry players to promote safe medical waste management practices, along with advancements in product design and technology, are expected to create lucrative opportunities for the growth of the global sharps containers market in the coming years.

Global Sharps Containers Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Product, Waste Type, usage Type, Waste Generator, Container Size, Distribution Channel and Geography.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by Product

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Product into Patient Room Containers, Phlebotomy Containers and Multipurpose Containers.

Patient room containers represent one of the significant segments in the sharps containers market. These containers are specifically designed for use within healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, to safely dispose of needles, syringes, and other sharp medical instruments used in patient care. With stringent regulations in place to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, the demand for patient room containers continues to grow steadily.

Phlebotomy containers constitute another important segment within the market. Phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood for medical testing or donation, generates a substantial amount of sharps waste. Dedicated containers for phlebotomy waste are essential to prevent accidental needlestick injuries among healthcare workers and ensure safe disposal practices. As the demand for blood tests and donations remains constant, the market for phlebotomy containers is expected to witness steady growth.

Multipurpose containers round out the product segmentation of the global sharps containers market. These versatile containers are designed to accommodate various types of sharps waste, including needles, lancets, and scalpels, making them suitable for a wide range of healthcare settings. Multipurpose containers offer flexibility and convenience, catering to the diverse needs of healthcare facilities and medical professionals.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by Waste Type

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Waste Type into Infectious & Pathological Waste, Pharmaceutical Waste, Sharps Waste and Non-infectious & Other Waste.

Among these segments, Infectious & Pathological Waste holds a significant portion of the market share. This category includes materials contaminated with pathogens or infectious agents, such as cultures, tissues, and blood products. Due to the potential health risks associated with improper disposal, stringent regulations mandate the safe containment and disposal of these materials, driving the demand for specialized sharps containers.

Pharmaceutical Waste represents another critical segment within the market. This category comprises expired, unused, or contaminated pharmaceutical products, including medications, vaccines, and chemotherapy drugs. Proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste is essential to prevent environmental contamination and safeguard public health. Sharps containers designed specifically for pharmaceutical waste disposal offer secure containment and facilitate safe disposal practices, contributing to the growth of this market segment.

Sharps Waste, which includes needles, syringes, and other sharp medical instruments, is a fundamental category in the sharps containers market. Healthcare facilities, laboratories, and other medical settings generate substantial quantities of sharps waste daily. Safe disposal of sharps waste is paramount to prevent needlestick injuries, transmission of bloodborne pathogens, and environmental contamination. Sharps containers designed to securely hold and transport sharps waste play a crucial role in ensuring worker and community safety.

Non-infectious & Other Waste round out the segmentation of the sharps containers market. This category encompasses various types of medical waste that do not fall into the infectious, pharmaceutical, or sharps waste categories. Examples include gauze, bandages, gloves, and other non-contaminated medical supplies. While the risk of infection may be lower with non-infectious waste, proper containment and disposal remain essential to prevent environmental harm and maintain hygiene standards in healthcare facilities. Sharps containers tailored for non-infectious waste disposal offer a convenient and safe solution for healthcare providers to manage this waste stream effectively.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by usage Type

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by usage Type into Reusable Containers and Disposable Containers.

Reusable containers have gained prominence due to their eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness in the long run. These containers are typically made from durable materials such as plastic or metal, allowing them to be sterilized and used multiple times. Healthcare facilities, especially those generating a large volume of sharps waste, prefer reusable containers as they offer a sustainable solution while reducing operational expenses associated with frequent disposal.

Disposable containers offer convenience and hassle-free disposal options. They are often made from puncture-resistant materials such as polypropylene and are designed for single-use purposes. Disposable containers eliminate the need for cleaning and sterilization processes, making them ideal for smaller healthcare settings or temporary facilities where the volume of sharps waste may not justify the investment in reusable options. Additionally, disposable containers mitigate the risk of cross-contamination and infection transmission associated with handling and reusing sharps containers.

Both reusable and disposable containers play integral roles in ensuring the safe disposal of medical sharps and protecting healthcare workers, patients, and the environment from potential hazards. However, the choice between the two largely depends on factors such as the volume of sharps waste generated, budget constraints, and sustainability goals of healthcare facilities. As regulatory standards continue to evolve and emphasize the importance of proper sharps waste management, the demand for both types of containers is expected to grow, albeit at varying rates depending on regional healthcare practices and environmental consciousness.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by Waste Generator

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Waste Generator into Hospitals, Clinics & Physicians Offices, Pharmaceutical Companies, Long-term Care & Urgent Care Centers, Pharmacies and Others.

Hospitals constitute a significant segment within the Waste Generator segmentation. Given their large-scale operations and the diverse range of medical procedures performed, hospitals generate a substantial volume of sharps waste daily. As a result, they are one of the primary contributors to the demand for sharps containers. Ensuring safe disposal of medical waste is crucial in hospitals to prevent the risk of needlestick injuries and the transmission of infectious diseases among healthcare workers and patients.

Clinics & Physicians Offices represent another vital segment in the Waste Generator categorization. While they may not produce waste volumes as significant as hospitals, the sheer number of clinics and physicians' offices globally ensures steady demand for sharps containers. These facilities encompass a wide spectrum of medical practices, from general practitioners to specialized clinics, all of which require proper disposal solutions for sharps waste generated during medical procedures and treatments.

Pharmaceutical Companies also play a significant role in the demand for sharps containers. These companies engage in various activities, including research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of pharmaceutical products, many of which involve the use of needles and other sharp medical devices. Proper disposal of these sharps is essential to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain a safe working environment within pharmaceutical facilities.

Long-term Care & Urgent Care Centers, Pharmacies, and Other healthcare facilities comprise additional segments within the Waste Generator categorization. Long-term care facilities cater to individuals requiring extended medical assistance, while urgent care centers offer immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. Both generate sharps waste that necessitates proper disposal. Pharmacies, too, produce sharps waste through activities such as medication administration and vaccine administration. Other healthcare facilities, including diagnostic centers and blood banks, also contribute to the demand for sharps containers.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by Container Size

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Container Size into 12 Gallons, 24 Gallons, 48 Gallons and Other Sizes.

The key segments is the 12-gallon category, which addresses the demand for compact yet efficient sharps disposal solutions. These containers are ideal for smaller healthcare facilities, clinics, and laboratories where space might be limited but the need for safe disposal remains paramount. Additionally, their size makes them suitable for use in ambulatory care settings and home healthcare environments.

Moving up in capacity, the 24-gallon segment offers a balance between size and storage capacity. These containers are often preferred in mid-sized healthcare facilities, including hospitals and outpatient centers, where a moderate volume of sharps waste is generated. Their larger capacity compared to 12-gallon containers reduces the frequency of emptying and disposal, enhancing operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards.

For facilities generating a higher volume of sharps waste, the 48-gallon segment provides ample storage space, reducing the need for frequent emptying and minimizing the risk of overfilling. Hospitals, large medical centers, and facilities with high patient throughput benefit from these larger containers, which can accommodate substantial quantities of sharps waste while maintaining safety and hygiene standards. Moreover, their robust construction and secure locking mechanisms offer enhanced protection against accidental spills or needlestick injuries, further safeguarding healthcare workers and personnel.

Global Sharps Containers Market , Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Direct Sale, Retail Sale and Online Sale.

Direct sale remains a prominent distribution channel for sharps containers. This channel involves manufacturers selling their products directly to healthcare facilities, laboratories, and other end-users. Direct sales offer benefits such as customized solutions, bulk discounts, and direct communication between the manufacturer and the buyer. Moreover, it ensures efficient delivery and support services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Retail sale is another important distribution channel in the global sharps containers market. Retail outlets such as pharmacies, medical supply stores, and supermarkets stock a variety of sharps containers to cater to the needs of individuals and smaller healthcare facilities. Retail sales channels provide convenience and accessibility to customers who may require sharps containers for personal use or for smaller-scale medical practices.

With the increasing penetration of e-commerce platforms, online sales have emerged as a rapidly growing distribution channel for sharps containers. Online sale offers the advantage of convenience, allowing customers to browse through a wide range of products and make purchases from the comfort of their homes or workplaces. Additionally, online platforms often provide competitive pricing, discounts, and doorstep delivery, further driving their popularity among consumers.

Global Sharps Containers Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Sharps Containers Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Sharps Containers Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The North American region holds a significant share in the global sharps containers market. This dominance can be attributed to stringent regulations regarding medical waste disposal, coupled with a high prevalence of needlestick injuries in healthcare settings. Moreover, the presence of well-established healthcare infrastructure and increased awareness about the importance of safe disposal practices among healthcare professionals further fuel the demand for sharps containers in this region.

Europe follows closely behind North America in terms of market share for sharps containers. The region is characterized by a robust healthcare system and stringent regulations pertaining to medical waste management. Increasing concerns regarding needlestick injuries and infections among healthcare workers are driving the adoption of sharps containers across various healthcare facilities in Europe. Additionally, initiatives by government bodies and healthcare organizations to promote safe disposal practices are contributing to market growth in this region.

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness significant growth in the sharps containers market during the forecast period. Factors such as the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and increasing healthcare expenditure are driving market growth in this region. Furthermore, growing awareness about infection control practices and the implementation of regulations related to medical waste management are expected to boost the adoption of sharps containers in Asia Pacific countries.

The Middle East and Africa region is also expected to contribute to the growth of the global sharps containers market. Factors such as the increasing number of healthcare facilities, rising awareness about the importance of safe medical waste disposal, and government initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure are driving market growth in this region. However, market growth may be hindered to some extent by challenges related to economic instability and limited access to healthcare services in certain parts of the region.

Latin America represents another emerging market for sharps containers. Factors such as improving healthcare infrastructure, rising healthcare expenditure, and increasing awareness about infection control measures are driving market growth in this region. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare facilities and promoting safe medical waste management practices are expected to further fuel market expansion in Latin America.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Sharps Containers Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers:

• Healthcare waste management regulations
• Rising awareness of needlestick injuries
• Growing demand for safe disposal

• Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases: The global sharps containers market is experiencing a significant upsurge, driven largely by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases worldwide. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders necessitate frequent medical interventions involving injections, infusions, and blood draws. Consequently, the demand for sharps containers, which are crucial for the safe disposal of needles, syringes, and other sharp medical instruments, has been steadily rising. With a growing emphasis on infection control and patient safety, healthcare facilities are increasingly investing in high-quality sharps containers to minimize the risk of needlestick injuries and transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers and patients.

  The expanding geriatric population, coupled with the rising incidence of infectious diseases, is further fueling the market growth. Elderly individuals often require regular medical care and are more prone to chronic conditions, thereby necessitating frequent medical procedures involving sharp instruments. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of proper medical waste management, leading to heightened awareness regarding the safe disposal of sharps. As a result, healthcare facilities are adopting stringent safety protocols and investing in advanced sharps disposal solutions, thereby driving the growth of the global sharps containers market.

Restraints:

• High cost of sharps containers
• Limited accessibility in rural areas
• Environmental concerns over disposal methods

• Potential risk of needle reuse: The global sharps containers market is experiencing significant growth, primarily driven by the rising awareness regarding safe disposal of medical sharps waste. Sharps containers play a crucial role in healthcare settings by providing a safe and secure means of disposing of needles, syringes, and other sharp medical instruments. With the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the expansion of healthcare infrastructure globally, the demand for sharps containers is expected to continue growing. Moreover, stringent regulations regarding the disposal of medical waste, coupled with initiatives aimed at preventing needlestick injuries among healthcare workers, further contribute to market growth. Additionally, technological advancements in sharps container design, such as puncture-resistant materials and tamper-evident closures, enhance safety and compliance with regulations, thereby driving market expansion.

  Despite the growing adoption of sharps containers, the potential risk of needle reuse remains a concern within healthcare settings. Improper disposal of needles can lead to needlestick injuries, exposing healthcare workers and patients to various bloodborne pathogens, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Inadequate training, lack of awareness, and complacency are some factors contributing to the improper disposal of sharps. Moreover, in resource-constrained settings or during emergencies, there may be instances where healthcare workers resort to reusing needles due to shortages or other challenges. Addressing this risk requires comprehensive education and training programs, along with strict adherence to protocols for the safe disposal of medical sharps waste. Additionally, leveraging technologies such as barcode tracking systems and point-of-use disposal containers can help mitigate the risk of needle reuse by ensuring proper disposal practices are followed at all times.

Opportunities:

• Technological advancements in container design
• Emerging markets in developing countries
• Expansion of healthcare infrastructure

• Collaborations for sustainable solutions: The global sharps containers market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing awareness about the importance of proper disposal of sharps waste in healthcare settings. As the prevalence of chronic diseases rises and healthcare infrastructure expands globally, the demand for safe and effective sharps disposal solutions continues to surge. In response, collaborations between key industry players have become increasingly prevalent, aiming to develop sustainable solutions that address not only the immediate need for safe sharps disposal but also the long-term environmental impact of medical waste. These collaborations often involve partnerships between manufacturers, waste management companies, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers, pooling resources and expertise to innovate and improve the design, manufacturing processes, and recycling capabilities of sharps containers.

  These collaborations extend beyond product development to encompass educational initiatives, regulatory compliance efforts, and advocacy for environmentally responsible practices. By working together, stakeholders in the sharps containers market can implement comprehensive solutions that promote sustainability throughout the product lifecycle, from manufacturing and distribution to usage and disposal. Through strategic partnerships and collective action, the industry can advance towards a more sustainable future, where the management of medical waste minimizes environmental impact while ensuring the safety and well-being of healthcare workers, patients, and the community at large.

Key players in Global Sharps Containers Market include:

• Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD)
• Sharps Compliance, Inc
• Henry Schein, Inc
• Daniels Health
• Stericycle, Inc
• Covidien
• MAUSER Group
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc
• EnviroTain
• Remcon Plastics, Inc

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis