Abstract: A disposal system for used and possibly contaminated needles, scalpels and other medical devices, commonly referred to as "sharps", comprises a device for safely transporting the devices and a disposal container. The disposal container is provided with a one-way valve for controlling access to the interior of the container. The one-way valve is preferably a paddle wheel having at least one vane mounted in an opening in a wall of the container. In use the medical device is placed on a vane of the paddle wheel and the paddle wheel rotated to drop the device into the storage container.