30th July 2009 - Press Release

Study confirms advice to councils on keeping waste collections safe

A review of international research into waste collections has confirmed existing advice for councils and householders on avoiding risks to public health.

The study, commissioned by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) and the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), reviewed all the available research on the potential health risks associated with waste collection. It looked specifically at changes in the collection frequency for residual* waste from weekly to fortnightly.

Reviewing over 150 published papers and documents, the study found no evidence of actual harm to householders and waste collectors or of any increased health risks or nuisance for householders that could not be dealt with by existing good practice advice for councils.

The study did identify that more work would be advisable on the potential health risk to waste collectors from exposure to mixed bioaerosols, particularly in combination with exhaust fumes from vehicles.

Sending the report today to waste collection authorities in England, WRAP and CIWM are urging them to ensure they give clear advice to householders on how their collection schemes work and how to use them safely and effectively. Phillip Ward, Director of Local Government Services at WRAP, said:

"There is no evidence that changing to a fortnightly collection creates risks that cannot be dealt with by following the straightforward good practice guidance already available. Whatever the collection system, it needs to be well designed and appropriate for the local area.

"Particularly in the warmer summer months, it is important that councils remind householders how to keep waste collections safe. This advice could include not keeping food waste in the house for long periods and wrapping it before putting it in the bin."

Steve Lee, Chief Executive of CIWM, added:
"Waste collections need to be safe and efficient for both householders and operatives and this study is a valuable addition to existing guidance. It reinforces the need for thorough risk assessments to be carried out and helps to highlight the importance of proper consultation, implementation and communication when councils are making changes to collection schemes."

A short commentary on the report and the full report can be found at http://www.ciwm.co.uk/pma/2224 or www.wrap.org.uk/healtheffectsstudy

* Residual waste refers to waste which is not or cannot be recycled.

ENDS

For further media information please contact:
Sarah Brown at WRAP on 01295 819618 or Pat Jennings at CIWM on 01604 620426

* Residual waste refers to waste which is not or cannot be recycled.

Notes to Editors:

1. The study, entitled 'Scoping study of potential health effects of fortnightly residual waste collection and related changes to domestic waste systems', was carried out by Dr Toni Gladding from the Integrated Waste Systems unit of the Open University.

About WRAP
2. WRAP helps individuals, businesses and local authorities to reduce waste and recycle more, making better use of resources and helping to tackle climate change.

3. Established as a not-for-profit company in 2000, WRAP is backed by government funding from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. WRAP also receives funding from Advantage West Midlands.

4. Working in seven key areas (Construction, Retail, Manufacturing, Organics, Business and Markets, Behavioural Change, and Local Authority Support), WRAP's work focuses on market development and support to drive forward recycling and materials resource efficiency within these sectors, as well as wider communications and awareness activities including the multi-media national Recycle Now campaign for England.

5. More information on all of WRAP's programmes can be found on www.wrap.org.uk.

About CIWM
6. The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) is the leading professional body for the waste management sector representing over 7000 individuals in the UK and overseas. Established in 1898, CIWM is a non profit-making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues. Comprehensive information about CIWM can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk