What is an important consideration when transporting sharps containers?

When transporting sharps containers, placing them in a secondary container if there is a risk of leakage is critical for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Sharps containers are designed to hold items like needles and blades that can pose a risk of injury or infection. If a container were to leak during transport, it could create a hazardous situation for anyone handling the container or in close proximity.

Using a secondary container acts as an additional layer of protection, helping to contain any spills and preventing exposure to potentially harmful materials. This precaution is particularly important in veterinary and medical settings, where the risk of contamination and injury needs to be minimized.

Other choices may not effectively address the safety concerns associated with transporting sharps. For instance, transporting empty containers may not be feasible as it can risk future safety lapses, and keeping containers visible could pose safety concerns if they are not secure. Lastly, not closing containers to prevent odors fails to recognize the primary purpose of a sharps container, which is to safely contain sharp objects.