Warning after needles found in wheelie bin load

The needles were was tipped out of a bin wagon from the village on May 12, prompting a safety warning from South Tyneside Council with chiefs also stressing there is legislation around the disposal of needles and sharps.

They must not be placed in a general waste or recycling bin.

In a Facebook post, the authority said: “The attached (referring to pictures of the needles) was tipped out of a bin wagon yesterday afternoon from East Boldon. There is legislation around the disposal of needles/sharps bins.

“Please do not place in your general waste or recycling bin.

"This is extremely dangerous for both the bin crews and more importantly this material will ultimately end up on a picking line with people picking through to sort the materials. Thank you.”

Councillor Ernest Gibson, lead member for Area Management and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, stressed the importance of sticking to the rules to keep others safe

“Items like this being placed in wheelie bins is extremely irresponsible. It poses a real risk, not only for our bin collection teams but for those who sort through the materials,” he said.

“We would urge people to dispose of syringes, needles and sharps boxes appropriately by contacting their local healthcare provider for advice.

“Further information about what can and cannot be placed in the grey general household, blue recycling or green garden waste bins, can be found on the council’s website at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling”

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