Hazardous waste

A number of everyday items and products contain hazardous materials that can harm the environment and human health if they are not disposed of or handled correctly.

• What can I not put in my general waste bin?

• How do I know if any of my waste is hazardous?

• How  should I handle hazardous waste?

• Where can I dispose of Hazardous Waste Safely?

• Where can I dispose of asbestos?

• How do I  reduce the amount of hazardous waste I produce?

• What if I produce hazardous waste from a commercial business?

What can I not put in my general waste bin?

• Hazardous chemicals such as solvent based products, some cleaning products or items contaminated with hazardous chemicals, including used containers,

• Oil, petrol, diesel or paraffin, brake fluid, antifreeze or items contaminated with these liquids including containers,

• Wood preservatives, pesticides

• Asbestos,

• Fluorescent tubes,

• Old cathode ray tube television or computer screens,

• Aerosol cans,

• Non-alkaline batteries,

• Electrical goods, including fridge/freezer, TVs monitor,

• Tyres,

• Plasterboard or cement products,

• Clinical or sanitary waste.

It is the responsibility of the householder to make arrangements with a private contractor or to take their hazardous waste to the local Community Recycling Centre

How do I know if any of my waste is hazardous?

Most hazardous chemicals are labelled with the orange and black symbols - see attachment entitled Hazardous chemicals  or visit the HSE (Health and Safety
Executive) website full details on classification, symbols, abbreviations, risk and safety phrases. (link opens in new window)

How should I handle hazardous waste?

• Always leave hazardous materials in their original containers.

• Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children or animals.

• Never pour hazardous liquids down the sink or drain.

• Never mix chemicals together.

• Always follow the instructions of the label.

Where can I dispose of hazardous waste safely?

• Take it to one of the permanent household waste recycling sites

• Dedicated containers / storage areas are provided for the separate collection of hazardous materials. These are then taken away for specialist treatment and recycling.

• On arrival, please contact a member of staff who will provide assistance.

• Do not leave hazardous items unattended on site.

• Check labels for any other advice on disposal of the product or empty packaging

Where can I dispose of asbestos?

• Only small amounts of cement bonded asbestos will be accepted at our Freemens Common Household Site.

• The material must be double wrapped.

• Please contact the site to check there is available container space.

How do I  reduce the amount of hazardous waste I produce?

• Only purchase the amount you need.

• Always take care when handling materials to avoid waste and accidents.

What if I produce hazardous waste from a commercial business?

• Hazardous waste arising from, or in the process of, a commercial business cannot be accepted at a Household Waste Recycling Site and you should contact a commercial contractor.

• Alternatively, contact the Environment Agency on 08708 506 506.