Needles in recycling bins pose big threat
NEEDLES, bulky scrap metal, general waste and dead animals are turning up at the Townsville City Council recycling centre, risking the health and safety of staff at the Material Recovery Facility.
Mayor Jenny Hill said workers sorting through recyclables should not have to worry about hazards while on the job.
“The overwhelming majority of Townsville residents recycle properly, following the directions on what can and cannot be put in their yellowlidded bins, and for that I thank them,” Cr Hill said.
“However, there is a very small minority who aren’t following the rules and through their actions they are putting workers at risk.
“Contamination is a major issue for council and people need to understand it has a big impact on staff and operations.
“In one instance, parts from a lawnmower were put in a recycling bin, which could hurt staff or severely damage the machinery at the Material Recovery Facility.
“The keys to recycling right are to keep the material simple, safe, and clean.”
The council’s Waste and Water Committee chairman, Russ Cook, said staff sorted through around 15,000 tonnes of material each year.
“Plastic bags are also a big issue as they contaminate the recycled waste council collects across the city,” Cr Cook said.
He added the council was reaching out to residents who weren’t using their bins correctly.
“Drivers stop and put stickers on bins if they can clearly see the load is contaminated so residents know why it wasn’t emptied – this approach is a good way to connect with families and businesses,” Cr Cook said.