Syringe services programs

The Utah legislature legalized syringe exchange in 2016. There are 14 syringe services programs operating across the state. They are community-based prevention programs that provide harm reduction services at no cost. Some services include:

Linkage to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment

Rapid HIV and hepatitis C testing

Sterile syringes and injection equipment

Drug-checking materials (such as fentanyl test strips)

Sharps containers for safe syringe disposal

People who use syringe services programs are 5 times more likely to enter treatment for substance use disorder than those who don’t. They are also 3 times more likely to report a reduction in injection frequency. There is also a 60% reduction in HIV and hepatitis C incidence associated with syringe services programs.

About syringe services programs

Nearly 30 years of research show that comprehensive syringe services programs are safe, effective, and cost-saving. Research also shows these programs do not increase illegal drug use or crime and play an essential role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis C, HIV, and other infections. ¹

These programs create safe, non-judgmental spaces where people who use drugs can receive support and tools to live healthier lives. Program participation is 100% confidential and free for everyone.

To learn more about Utah’s syringe services programs, including up-to-date service schedules, contact the Utah Syringe Exchange Network at [email protected] or visit sites.google.com/utah.gov/usen.

The Utah Syringe Exchange Network

The Utah Syringe Exchange Network (USEN) is a coalition of more than 30 community-based organizations, local governments, and other stakeholders who work together to provide evidence-based harm reduction services for people who use drugs in Utah. Visit the USEN website for comprehensive resources on syringe services programs, overdose prevention, and more.

Learn more

Syringe disposal

Syringes that come into contact with bodily fluids may be considered infectious waste. Accidental needlestick injuries can lead to severe infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV. You can keep yourself and your community safe by following these guidelines:

Isolate syringes in leak-proof, rigid, puncture-resistant containers such as a laundry detergent bottle, plastic coffee container, or a commercially available sharps container.

If you use an alternative to a commercially available sharps container, label your sharps container as containing medical waste.

Put syringes in a container as soon as you use them. Keep the container out of the reach of children and pets.

Dispose of your syringes at your local syringe services program. If you do not have access to a syringe services program, throw it out in the trash once it has been securely packaged and labeled. Do not recycle the full container.

Remember to bring an appropriate container with you when you travel, including when you plan to exchange used syringes for new ones. Utah law requires that syringe services programs provide individuals with a medical-grade sharps container for the disposal of used syringes.

If you spot syringe litter in a public place or near a private residence, you can report it through the Utah Syringe Exchange Network’s syringe litter report form. Local syringe services programs will work together to make sure the litter is cleaned up within two business days. You may receive a follow-up email regarding your report. If you wish to clean up the litter yourself, follow these guidelines to minimize risk.

Are you interested in starting a syringe services program

A syringe services program may be operated by a government entity, nonprofit entity, or other entity that complies with the state’s syringe exchange and education laws, including administrative rule R386-900 in Utah. These laws outline requirements related to syringe distribution, education, referrals, and reporting, such as:

An operating entity shall facilitate the exchange of an individual’s used syringe with one or more new syringes in sealed sterile packages.

A recipient of a new syringe must be given verbal and written instructions on:

- Methods for preventing HIV and hepatitis C.
- Options for obtaining substance use disorder treatment.
- Options for obtaining HIV and hepatitis C testing.
- Options for obtaining an opiate antagonist.

An operating entity shall report annually to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services:

- The number of individuals who have exchanged syringes.
- The number of used syringes exchanged for new syringes.
- The number of new syringes provided in exchange for used syringes.
- Information the program provided to individuals about recovery and treatment resources.
- The number of individuals who received services for the treatment of a substance use disorder within 12 months of exchanging syringes.

How to enroll

Administrative rule R386-900 dictates that an operating entity shall use the department’s enrollment form to provide written notice of intent to conduct syringe exchange activities 15 days prior to conducting syringe exchange activities. The enrollment form requires the following documents:

A safety protocol for preventing needlestick and sharps injuries.

A sharps disposal plan.

Evidence of community readiness assessment.

A signed code of conduct.

Email [email protected] for detailed instructions, document examples, and technical assistance before you complete the enrollment form.