Abstract: A process and an apparatus for the individual destruction of syringe needles by melting under the effect of a high-intensity electric current. The apparatus includes a lower electrode adapted to accommodate the free end of a needle and to form therewith an electrical contact, connected electrically to a first terminal of an electric power source, a first upper electrode connected electrically to a second terminal of the electric power source. The apparatus also includes a second upper electrode adapted to be placed in electrical contact with the surface of the needle at least substantially radially opposite the first upper electrode. The second upper electrode is connected electrically to the first terminal.