Advice about the steps you can take to help cut the potential for cross-contamination due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Cutting cross-contamination

Waste workers are providing essential services to make sure your waste collections continue and that your waste is processed properly. All of us should respect the work they are doing.

Everyone has a part to play in keeping waste collections running.

The following advice shows you what steps to take to help cut the potential for cross-contamination:

• wash your hands, before and after handling your recycling bins or boxes
• cloths, wipes and gloves or any other personal protective equipment (PPE) that you use for cleaning should be placed in your general waste bin
• do not put tissues in your recycling bins or boxes - there are people sorting your waste, respect their health and safety
• if you have a wheelie bin, always disinfect your bin handles and lids before and after collection
• if you have a wheelie box/recycling box, always disinfect the handles and flaps before and after collection

Self-isolation

If you are self-isolating, place personal waste (such as used tissues) and disposable cleaning cloths or gloves or other PPE in disposable rubbish bags.

These bags should be placed into a second bag, tied securely and kept separate from other waste.

Keep these bags aside for at least 72 hours before putting into your usual external general household waste bin. Also make sure to keep this waste away from children and pets.

Remember to keep at least two metres (six feet) away from your waste collectors. Taking these steps will help stop the spread of the virus to your waste collectors, your neighbours and to others.