THE University of Glasgow is being forced to address staff safety concerns after a number of exposed needles were found on campus. 

Sharps boxes have been introduced within the university’s sport building in the west end after a statement from bosses claims that staff have “encountered numerous occasions” recently where needles have been discarded in changing rooms. 

The statement also claims the situation is creating an “unnecessary health risk” for staff and members.

The building, which is operated by Glasgow University, is also open to community members who can join without affiliation to the institution.

Use of the substances by gym users has been criticised by Paddy Everingham, president of Glasgow University Sports Association. 

He said: “From our point of view we are happy to see the boxes as they improve staff safety. It is plain and simple – don’t do drugs. 

“I think that the sharps boxes have been in place for a while and probably always will be. 

“Clubs at the university do a lot to tackle the issue of drugs on campus but it is also down to community residents not to take steroids as part of being a respectful person and not breaking the law. 

“People need to think about the safety of staff and other members when they use the premises and I am glad there are steps being taken. 

“This is an issue and we need to deal with it.”

Issues surrounding the increase in discarded needles emerged after a photograph taken within the University’s Stevenson building emerged online. 

A statement posted beside one of these sharps boxes read: “Anabolic injections are prohibited within this facility and any member found in breach of this will have their membership revoked. Please ensure the safety and wellbeing of all others.

“University of Glasgow Sport staff have encountered numerous occasions over the past couple of weeks whereby exposed needles have been left discarded in this area. 

“This is creating an unnecessary health risk for both out staff and fellow members.”

As a drug which is categorised as Class C, it is illegal to sell or deal anabolic steroids without a prescription from a doctor for medical purposes. 

It is not against the law to use and buy the drugs for personal use. 

The University of Glasgow have said that the changes are as a result of a “very small” number of incidents and that measures are being put in place primarily to protect staff. 

A spokesperson for the University of Glasgow added: “People take injections for a number of different reasons so we have always had sharps bins in our facilities. 

“Sharps bins are also used for the disposal of shaving razors. Recently we have installed a notice and sharps bins in toilet cubicles to protect our colleagues and customers from the danger of coming into contact with needles which have not been disposed of properly. 

“We have found only a very small number of needles and have taken the opportunity to reiterate our strong opposition to any form of illegal or performance enhancing substances.”