Here at Eley Consultancy Ltd we have been asked a fair bit over the last few weeks about to how safely dispose of face masks.
So we have put the following information together to help those out there that are looking for a little clarification on this issue.
In April the government issued guidance on disposing of Covid-waste, suggested that anyone with the virus or showing symptoms should dispose of their household waste in a rubbish bag placed into a second rubbish bag.
The outside bag should be securely tied and then kept separate from other people’s waste.
But if you are not showing signs or symptoms and simply need to safely dispose of your face covering the government says you should dispose of them in your ‘black bag’ waste bin at home or at work, or a litter bin if you’re outside.
“Do not put them in a recycling bin as they cannot be recycled through conventional recycling facilities,” the guidance states.
“Take them home with you if there is no litter bin – do not drop them as litter.”
The advice also points out that you do not need to put them in an extra bag or store them for a time before throwing them away.
For masks specifically the World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests discarding face masks as soon as they feel damp in a closed bin. They then suggest washing hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
London.gov has also provided some guidance about the wearing of face masks, including how to dispose of them safely.
“If you are using a single-use face covering, please ensure you dispose of it safely in your black bag rubbish at home if possible,” the guidance states.
“Never litter your face covering or gloves. This puts other people at risk, especially refuse collectors and street cleaners.”
We hope that the above guidance has been useful. Please take extra care when disposing of your face masks and do not put others at risk or litter unnecessarily.
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