Dangerous materials that cannot be put in a skip

When hiring a skip, you have a responsibility to use it safely and with consideration for the environment. While a full skip may look like ‘anything and everything’ has been thrown into it, there are some dangerous materials that should never be disposed of in a skip.

The good news is that for most customers there isn’t a problem with the materials they put in a skip, and skip hire is most certainly a cost-effective, speedy way to dispose of waste.

At 1st Choice Concrete & Skip Hire we are keen to advise customers on the materials that can and can’t be put into a skip to avoid unnecessary issues. For general guidance, therefore, we have put together this article on dangerous materials that cannot be put in a skip which we hope you will find useful. If, however, you are in any doubt about dangerous materials that cannot be put in a skip, just give us a call.

Hazardous chemical waste

Hazardous chemical waste such as solvents, cooking oil, engine oil, paint, acids, adhesives, toner and alkali are all examples of hazardous chemical waste that shouldn’t be disposed of in a skip. Aerosols and gas cannisters are also prohibited from disposal in a skip.

These items contain dangerous chemicals that are harmful to people and the environment or pose a safety risk. Many are combustible and have the capacity to cause severe burning.

Vehicle waste

Vehicle waste can be particularly hazardous when incorrectly discarded. Engine oil, brake fluid, fuel (both petrol and diesel), car batteries, anti-freeze and oil filters are all hazardous and should be disposed of using the appropriate local waste facility.

Asbestos and asbestos contaminated materials

Asbestos is highly dangerous. It is known to cause cancer and other life-threatening diseases so there are regulations in place with regard to its disposal. It certainly shouldn’t be put in a  skip!

The process of removing asbestos from walls and ceilings should only be carried out by asbestos removal professionals who should also manage the disposal for you.

Combustible materials

Fuel, fireworks, paint thinner, lighter fluid, aerosol cans, oils and acetone products are all examples of combustible household materials that could easily find their way into a skip if not closely monitored. These items can easily explode when discarded under the weight and pressure of other waste. Combustible materials should be disposed of by dedicated recycling specialists.

WEEE (Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment)

WEEE refers to any waste item that has electrical components, circuitry or a power supply. WEEE items cannot be put in a skip. They are considered hazardous and must be recycled separately. WEEE items include TVs, computer monitors and laptops. Let’s take a closer look at some of the other items in this group:

Batteries

Regardless of the size of battery, it could be the battery from your remote control or the battery from your car, it cannot be put in a skip. Batteries are made up of harmful chemicals and metals so they must be disposed of at the designated area of your local recycling facility.

Fluorescent tubes and light bulbs

Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury which is a very harmful chemical. Again, they must be recycled properly at your local recycling centre.

Air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers

Air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers contain coolants such as Freon gases and liquids which are harmful to the environment. These hazardous chemicals must be removed before components of the appliance can be recycled. Check with your local recycling centre if fridges, freezers or air conditioning units can be recycled there. If not, they will be able to advise you accordingly.

Speak to 1^st Choice Concrete & Skip Hire about your skip requirements

If you have any questions about the materials that you can dispose of in your skip, contact the 1^st Choice team who will be happy to help. Alternatively, you can book a skip via our website.