Last week, The Muse interviewed the MUN Diabetes Society about their recent post regarding a lack of sharps disposal containers on campus; the society checked 160 washrooms and found that only about 20% had sharps containers.
The Muse reached out to MUN Media Relations and received these responses from Facilities Management.
Does MUN have a comment on the recent campaigns by the MUN Diabetes Society about the lack of sharps disposal containers on campus?
“Memorial values the voice of students and this advocacy work the society is undertaking.”
Does MUN feel that the current quantity of sharps containers is adequate?
“Memorial is listening to the campus community and evaluating where and how additional containers can be added throughout campuses.
When sharps containers were first added on campus, they were strategically placed around areas with cafeterias and food vendors.
Additional containers have since been installed in response to identified needs and at the request of building occupants.”
Are there plans to increase the accessibility (quantity or visibility) of these containers?
“There is a layer on the campus maps indicating the location of sharps containers. Our campus community may not be aware of this information and we will ensure we share how and where to find this information as well as how to request additional containers in a specific area(s).
If an area currently needs a sharps container added, please contact facman@mun.ca
Additionally, Memorial is listening to the campus community and evaluating where and how additional containers can be added throughout campuses.”
Was MUN aware of this issue before the campaign?
“We have always worked with building occupants to ensure access to containers and we adjust to changing requirements.
We provide as supportive and inclusive of an environment as possible for our community and are willing and open to hear suggestions and ways we can improve campus services.
Memorial supports and values access to sharps disposal containers and has locations available throughout campus.
There is a layer on the campus maps indicating these locations. Memorial appreciates the awareness campaign students are leading to further highlight access.”