Waste experts have highlighted the dangers of vape-related fires after an inferno, which started in a vape shop, raged through Glasgow’s Union Street yesterday (8 March).
When vapes are [wrongly] disposed of in household bins, they can lead to fires in bin trucks and at waste management sites, posing a huge risk to workers and the public, warned BusinessWaste.co.uk.
Vapes contain lithium-ion batteries that can overheat and ignite when damaged or crushed. If vapes enter bin lorries or waste management facilities, this is common because waste is compressed, stated the the business waste management and collection firm.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) enforces the collection of vapes and other electrical products. Retailers can be prosecuted and get an unlimited fine if they do not comply with the WEEE regulations.
Mark Hall, WEEE expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, said:
“While we are yet to hear what caused the large fire in Glasgow at the weekend, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fire hazards associated with vapes. The ban on disposable vapes was certainly a step in the right direction. While a reusable vape is still the preferred option, the lack of education on correct disposal means we’re likely to see vape-related bin and waste fires continue.
“With vapes technically classed as WEEE, we encourage retailers to inform customers about the correct disposal methods.”
