Purpose BagSkip Bins

Skip bin no-no’s: A guide to prohibited Items

By 09/08/2024 August 12th, 2024 No Comments

When it comes to waste removal in the Waikato, skip bins are a popular and convenient solution for disposing of large amounts of waste.

We got the lists of materials that are allowed and you are welcome to use our Purpose skip bins or Purpose Bags for these.
– Green Waste
– Hardfill

However, not everything can be tossed into these industrial-sized containers.
To protect the environment, comply with regulations, and ensure the safety of waste management workers, there are several items that are strictly prohibited from being placed in skip bins. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common items that can’t go into Purpose Fill’s skip bins along with explanations of why they’re prohibited and alternative disposal methods.

Hazardous Materials:

One of the most important categories of prohibited items is hazardous materials. These substances pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Examples include:

  • Asbestos: This carcinogenic material requires specialized handling and disposal.
  • Lead-based paint: Common in older homes, it needs careful removal and disposal.
  • Chemical waste: Including pesticides, herbicides, and industrial chemicals.
  • Medical waste: Such as syringes, medications, and bodily fluids.
  • Radioactive materials: These require specialized disposal methods.

Flammable and Explosive Materials:

For obvious safety reasons, the following items are prohibited:

  • Gas cylinders (including LPG bottles)
  • Petrol, kerosene, and other fuels
  • Aerosol cans
  • Fireworks and explosives
  • Paint thinners and solvents
  • Engine oil
  • Gear oil
  • Grease
  • Synthetic lubricants
  • Cutting fluids
  • Machine oils
  • Chain lubricants
  • Penetrating oils
  • Silicone-based lubricants
  • White lithium grease
  • Dry lubricants (if in liquid form)

Liquid Waste:

Skip bins are designed for solid waste, so liquids are generally not allowed. This includes:

  • Paint (both water-based and oil-based)
  • Oils and lubricants
  • Chemicals in liquid form
  • Sewage or septic waste

Food Waste:

While not hazardous, food waste can attract pests and create unpleasant odors. Items to avoid include

  • Raw or cooked food scraps
  • Fruit and vegetable waste
  • Meat and dairy products

Instead, consider composting or using council-provided food waste collection services.

Construction Materials:

Certain construction materials are prohibited due to their nature or potential hazard

  • Asbestos-containing materials
  • Lead-based paint chips or dust
  • Water-based paints
  • Oil-based paints
  • Spray paints
  • Paint thinners
  • Paint strippers
  • Varnishes and lacquers
  • Wood stains
  • Primers and sealers

Other prohibited liquids:

  • Fuel (petrol, diesel, kerosene)
  • Alcohol-based liquids
  • Liquid coolants
  • Liquid waste from industrial processes
  • Liquid waste from laboratories
  • Liquid waste from photographic processing
  • Liquid waste from printing processes
  • Liquid waste from car washes
  • Liquid waste from dry cleaning
  • Sewage or septic waste
  • Contaminated water
  • Liquid chemical waste
  • Engine oil
  • Gear oil
  • Grease
  • Synthetic lubricants
  • Cutting fluids
  • Machine oils
  • Chain lubricants
  • Penetrating oils
  • Silicone-based lubricants
  • White lithium grease
  • Dry lubricants (if in liquid form)

It’s important to note that these items are prohibited because they can:

  • Contaminate soil and water sources
  • Pose fire or explosion risks
  • React with other materials in the skip bin
  • Create health hazards for waste management workers
  • Damage waste processing equipment

Proper Disposal Methods:
Instead of placing these items in skip bins, consider the following disposal methods:

  1. Use local council recycling centers or transfer stations that accept hazardous waste.
  2. Participate in community collection events for household hazardous waste.
  3. Return unused paints and chemicals to the retailer or manufacturer if possible.
  4. For large quantities, hire a specialized hazardous waste disposal service.
  5. Some auto parts stores accept used motor oil and other automotive fluids for recycling.

For questions and enquires contact us :

Call us 0800501020 or Email