Final answer:
Option b, 'removing needles from syringes before discarding,' is not a part of safe sharps handling. Needles should never be manipulated and should be disposed of in designated sharps containers without alteration to prevent needlestick injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the handling of sharp objects in a healthcare setting, and which practice is not safe. Option b) Removing needles from syringes before discarding is NOT part of safe sharps handling. It is important to never attempt to recap, bend, break, or otherwise manipulate needles before disposal, as this increases the risk of needlestick injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that sharp objects like needles and syringes should be immediately placed in FDA-cleared sharps disposal containers that are puncture-resistant, leak-proof on the sides and bottom, and labeled or color-coded to warn of hazardous waste. These containers should be accessible to the area where sharps will be used, and they should not be allowed to be more than two-thirds full to avoid overfilling and potential injury. Instead of removing the needle, the entire needle and syringe should be placed, unaltered, into the sharps container.