Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste in the home

Many of the products and substances we use in our homes can be hazardous if we do not use and dispose of them properly. Products such as bleach, moth balls, garden sprays, pool chemical, oven cleaners, gas cylinders, batteries, paints, insect sprays and household cleaners can be dangerous.
Containers holding hazardous waste (even if empty) must not be put out with the recycling or mixed in with general rubbish. It is illegal to tip hazardous waste into stormwater drains and containers that have held hazardous waste should not be burnt as they can give off toxic fumes. These products can add up to be a considerable source of pollution. The environment can be damaged when they make their way into the air, water, and soil. People's health can also be affected.

Products that are hazardous have the classification on the labelling and these types of products should always be kept in their original packaging.

Look in your cupboards, sheds, garages, laundry and workshop for products that may be hazardous.

How to manage your hazardous waste

• Buy only as much as you need
• Use all of the product or see if someone else can use up the leftovers
• Buy products that are made from natural or non-toxic materials
• Always follow instructions and use carefully. Never use more than the manufacturer's instructions recommend
• Store in original containers so that you can check instructions and contents
• Keep the lid tightly closed
• Store in a cool, well ventilated place, out of the reach of children and pets
• Don't store bleach close to ammonia or acids as these could react and create a poisonous gas
• Don't use old containers to store other products.

Hazardous waste collection

A free once-a-year hazardous waste service for householders is provided by Napier City Council and Hastings District Council. Find out more on the Household Chemical Clean Out page. Unsure what can be recycled and where? Check out our quick guide below on where you can take items that are not accepted at the collection event, or use our helpful A-Z Waste Guide to search for the correct places and ways to dispose of your items.

Hazardous waste advice

For more information contact: