Stone residents are being reminded not to put gas canisters or pressurised cylinders in household bins, recycling bins or public litter bins after a rise in incidents involving explosions during waste collection and processing.
Staffordshire County Council said items such as camping gas canisters, patio gas canisters, small propane and butane cylinders, and nitrous oxide canisters can still pose a risk even when they appear to be empty.
The warning applies to household waste bins, recycling bins and public litter bins across the county, including those used in Stone.
Why they are dangerous
The council said canisters can still contain enough pressure to rupture if they are crushed in a waste vehicle or heated during treatment.
If they enter the normal waste stream, they can also reach the county’s Energy Recovery Facility, where compaction and high temperatures can trigger explosions. The council said this can put collection crews, site staff and members of the public at risk, as well as causing disruption and damage.
Residents are being asked not to place any gas canister in a household waste bin, recycling bin or public litter bin.
Where possible, empty canisters should be returned to the supplier or retailer. Other disposable canisters should be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre, but residents should check first that the site accepts them and follow site safety instructions.
Anyone unsure about how to dispose of a canister is advised to keep it safe and intact, and check guidance with their waste or recycling provider before travelling.
Councillor Andrew Mynors, cabinet member for connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, said
“Gas canisters are extremely dangerous if not disposed of correctly. When they are crushed or heated, they can explode without warning.
“We’re asking people to please avoid putting them in any bin, use the correct disposal route so we can protect our crews, our facilities and the public.”
