Starbucks Adding Needle-Disposal Boxes to Its Bathrooms

"In response to safety concerns from employees, Starbucks has outfitted bathrooms at some locations with needle-disposal boxes. Last year, the chain was investigated by and fined $3,100 by the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration after two employees in Eugene were stuck with needles. Needle-disposal boxes have been added to locations in at least 25 domestic markets, Business Insider reports, and the chain intends to have such boxes added to bathrooms anywhere considered necessary. The needle-disposal boxes are needed because trash bags are not safe for disposing sharp objects, and so employees and staff risk being pricked. If they are, they have to take medications to protect themselves against HIV and other viruses. The needle-disposal boxes have been called for by 5,000 employees who have signed an online petition asking that these boxes be installed to protect both employees and customers." - Chris Crowley