A refuse collector has urged the British public to be more mindful about what they put in recycling bins, revealing three grim items that pose health risks to workers
A refuse collector has urged the British public to think more carefully about what they are placing in their recycling bins. While some contaminate their boxes with non-recyclable waste, others appear to show no consideration whatsoever for the essential workers handling it.
According to a bin man named Ashley, who shares informative clips on TikTok, some people are putting revolting items into their recycling boxes without a moment’s hesitation.
Not only are these items unsuitable for processing, they could genuinely put the refuse collectors tasked with clearing the waste in harm’s way. So bear this in mind before recycling the following – or you risk having your items left uncollected:
1. Condoms
You might think this one goes without saying – but there are unfortunately those who attempt to recycle condoms.
These contraceptive products should always be disposed of in the general waste bin, as they are manufactured from materials such as latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene – none of which are compatible with standard recycling procedures.
However, there’s an even more pressing reason to be mindful when disposing of them. Used condoms may contain bodily fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, blood), which can harbour bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens (such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other sexually transmitted infections).
That said, it’s entirely understandable why handling used condoms is unpleasant and distressing for refuse workers. It also creates an unhygienic working environment and can attract vermin.
So the next time you’re disposing of condoms and other items that may have been contaminated by bodily fluids, take care. Always throw used condoms in the general waste bin (not recycling). Wrap them securely in tissue or a bag to reduce health risks for anyone handling your rubbish.
2. Nappies
You should never place nappies in the recycling bin as they are regarded as a form of hazardous waste and can pose a serious threat to the health and safety of refuse collectors and recycling facility workers.
While most people are well aware that human waste shouldn’t go into the recycling box, some toss nappies in there because they don’t want them to make their indoor bins smell. However, this is incredibly dangerous and thoughtless.
Ashley added: “I just don’t understand people like this. Why would you go to the effort? You have to dig down into your recycling bin to put a dirty nappy in there. Surely it makes more sense to just put it in your general waste bin?”
If space is the concern, he recommends removing items suitable for recycling and placing them in the recycling bin instead, freeing up additional room in the general waste bin.
He added: “You’ve now got more bins than ever. You don’t have to be hiding stuff – it seems like a lot of effort.”
3. Chewing gum
Discarded chewing gum is a biohazard. It contains saliva, which can carry bacteria, viruses and other harmful pathogens from whoever chewed it. Coming into contact with used gum raises the risk of exposure to these microorganisms, potentially spreading infections.
Refuse collectors can accidentally touch discarded gum while sorting through waste, resulting in direct contact with bodily fluids. This is particularly worrying if they have any cuts or grazes on their hands.
For this reason, gum and its packaging should never be placed in your recycling bin. On top of the health risks it poses, chewing gum simply cannot be recycled and will not decompose easily.
Ashley added: “It goes in your general waste. If you’re chewing it and finished with it, it goes in the general waste bin.
“It is not biodegradable – that’s why you do not put it in your food waste or your compost bin. It goes in your general waste because it can’t break down and go into the soil or whatever they make the food waste into.”
So there you have it – take heed of this guidance when recycling and spare a thought for those responsible for collecting your rubbish. Your local refuse collectors will be grateful, as will the planet!
