Punjab bans conventional syringes from Jan 1

The Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) has imposed a ban on the purchase and use of conventional syringes of up to 10cc at hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities across the province, with the restriction set to take effect from January 1, 2027.

Under the new directive, healthcare facilities will no longer be allowed to purchase or use conventional syringes of up to 10cc after the deadline and will be required to switch to single-use syringes.

The commission has directed all public and private healthcare establishments to ensure strict compliance with the decision as part of measures aimed at preventing the transmission of infectious diseases through unsafe injection practices.

The PHC has also ordered healthcare facilities to establish effective systems for the safe collection and disposal of medical waste.

According to the directive, recycling of single-use disposable medical items, including syringes, infusion and drip sets, and cannulas, must be completely stopped.

The commission has prohibited the reuse of syringes and drip sets, warning that unsafe practices involving disposable medical equipment can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.

The directive also specifically prohibits using a single injection or syringe for more than one patient.

Hospital and clinic administrations have been instructed to ensure that doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare staff follow the new requirements and that disposable equipment is discarded safely after use.

Healthcare facilities will also be responsible for ensuring that used syringes, cannulas, infusion sets and other potentially contaminated medical waste do not re-enter the supply chain through recycling or illegal resale.

The Punjab Healthcare Commission said it would carry out inspections of hospitals, clinics and other healthcare establishments across the province to check compliance with the directives.

The inspections will include monitoring the type of syringes being purchased and used, disposal arrangements for medical waste and compliance with restrictions on the reuse and recycling of disposable medical equipment.

Healthcare establishments found violating the directives will face action under the Punjab Healthcare Commission Act, 2010.

The commission has directed hospital and clinic administrations to make the necessary procurement and waste-management arrangements ahead of the January 1 deadline to ensure a complete transition away from conventional syringes covered by the ban.

The measure places responsibility on healthcare providers to prevent the reuse of disposable medical equipment and strengthen infection-control practices across Punjab's healthcare system.

Reporter: Zahid Chaudhary