Even your waste needs extra care during a pandemic

As South Africa faces a third wave of Covid-19 infections, it has never been more important for each of us to do our part to keep ourselves, and others, safe.

Not only does this mean wearing masks and keeping our distance, but it also means we need to take extra care with how we handle our waste. This is particularly important if you are quarantining, or if you have any symptoms or suspicions that you may have contracted Covid-19.

Justice Tootla, MD of the waste and recycling company Averda explains there’s been a significant increase in household medical and PPE waste recently, and shared concerns that health waste is not being dealt with correctly, with items such as used tissues being disposed of in regular rubbish bins.

“If you have the slightest suspicion that you may have the virus or are feeling under the weather, it is advisable to double bag your waste and take extra care when disposing of it.”

He explains, to ensure clean and healthy environments during this pandemic, all waste will need to be removed safely and that cleaning schedules need not be complicated with only a two-step approach required.

Firstly, start in the home where all personal and sanitary items, for example used tissues, should be doubled bagged and definitely kept separate from recyclable waste. Some municipalities also advise keeping this waste on the property for at least five days before placing it out for collection.

Secondly, all households should continue to disinfect their bins; you can use a regular hand sanitiser, or you can use a household bleach solution.

These steps will not only keep your household safe but also the community around you, ensuring that infected items do not come into contact with local waste pickers, waste collectors or the public before it is incinerated.

“It is important that each South African citizen takes personal responsibility for the disposal of their waste and helps prevent the spread of Covid-19,” said Tootla.