Skip hire safety: keep vapes and batteries out of your skip

The incorrect disposal of vapes and batteries is an increasing problem in the UK, particularly as reusable vapes have become more popular. 

Intentional or not, a growing number of people are carelessly throwing batteries and vapes in skips, seemingly unaware of the serious risks they pose. The consequences of this can be devastating, as fires started by vapes and batteries in waste facilities and collection vehicles lead to life-threatening injuries and major, costly damage.

Read on to find out why it’s so important to keep vapes and batteries out of your skip – and the serious repercussions if you don’t.

What are the dangers of putting batteries and vapes in a skip?

The versatility of skips is what makes them so popular for site clearance, home renovations and much more. With that being said, not all rubbish can be disposed of in a skip, as it can pose a major health and safety risk to waste collectors and the environment – this includes vapes and batteries. Skips are not designed to handle hazardous items such as these, meaning the associated skip fire risks and negative impact on the environment increases dramatically if people dispose of vapes and batteries in this way. 

Improper disposal of batteries can cause them to get punctured or crushed during waste collection or processing, leading to them catching fire or exploding. The same applies to most disposable vapes, as they contain lithium-ion batteries which can also cause fires or explosions if damaged. Not only that, but any liquid leaking from the batteries or vapes is toxic for the environment and will harm surrounding wildlife.

How to dispose of batteries safely

In response to the growing number of people disposing of their batteries in skips, many supermarkets, local recycling centres and electronics shops offer designated battery collection points to recycle batteries in the correct manner.

How to dispose of vapes safely

For those wondering how to recycle vapes safely and efficiently, reusable vapes can often be returned to vape shops or local retailers, as they contain materials such as plastic and metal which can be recycled.

How to store vapes and batteries safely

When not in use, make sure that vapes and batteries are safely stored away from any flammable materials – ideally in a secure container – and kept out of reach of children. As mentioned, you must not throw vapes and batteries away in your skip or waste bin once they are no longer needed, particularly if you notice them becoming hot or leaking. Contact a waste management expert or your local recycling centre for advice on safe disposal. 

Here at Enfield Skips, we take our responsibility for the safe disposal of waste seriously. As we have seen a rise in reports of fire breakouts due to improper batteries and vape disposal, we are dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of skip hire safety and keeping vapes and batteries out of skips. 

If you are in search of a reputable skip hire company in Enfield, Barnet, Hoddesdon, Cheshunt and the surrounding Hertfordshire and North London areas, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today. We offer expert advice and competitive prices to each and every customer.