GCC Hazardous Waste Campaign
Incorrect hazardous waste disposal
In recent months there have been several large fires and incidents at waste and recycling facilities in Scotland, which were subsequently attributed to the incorrect disposal of hazardous items.
In Glasgow, there has been a significant increase in hazardous – often explosive – items being deposited in domestic bins. These items are unsafe and cannot be managed through the normal waste and recycling collection services.
Incorrect disposal of hazardous items puts the health and safety of staff at risk and jeopardises the integrity of critical processing infrastructure.
It can also harm the environment – for example, an explosion leading to uncontrolled gas emissions – and cause a breach of environmental legislation.
What are hazardous items?
Many common household items contain hazardous components.
For example, vapes, electric toothbrushes, toys, mobile phones and laptops can contain rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which can explode when damaged.
Other items, such as pressurised gas canisters including NOx containers, helium balloon canisters, carbon dioxide, and others, also pose a risk of explosion if damaged.
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A new webpage has also been created at www.glasgow.gov.uk/hazardouswaste allowing residents to find key information on the safe and correct disposal of these items.
Where to dispose of potentially dangerous household items
The nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) is at Dawsholm, 75 Dawsholm Road, G20 0TB. Open 7 days, 08.00 to 18.00 (last entry 17.45).
Facilities for the collection of batteries are also available at many retail outlets, including supermarkets.
