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UK Workers Exposed to Hazardous Waste

25th May 2007

Are you working just a few feet away from hazardous waste? You may be surprised to learn that the answer is almost certainly yes!

That's the startling reality highlighted today by Biffa, the UK's leading waste company, which has launched a new service aimed at helping companies deal with the hazardous waste they create.

Waste-Safe Mini is a service that deals with the many common workplace items such as printer and photocopy toner cartridges, fluorescent light tubes, aerosols, batteries, paint and adhesives, which are now regarded as hazardous waste. Where it was once possible to throw these items in the bin alongside sandwich wrappers, drinks cartons and general office waste, they must now be set aside and collected separately following changes to the law.

Companies that fail to comply with the regulations could be prosecuted!

'It's a nightmare scenario for many companies,' said Mick Ashall, Biffa general manager for waste treatment. 'The rules are confusing for companies, which are often unaware that they are producing hazardous waste and if they are, what they should do with it.'

'With Waste-Safe Mini we can provide companies with a specially designed container for hazardous waste and ensure it is collected. We can also provide advice on the types of waste they are creating and what they should do with it. Much of this material is recyclable, so by separating it for collection we can help people do more with their rubbish.'

More information on the service is available by clicking here.