Ruapehu District Council is urging residents to take extreme care when disposing of unwanted chemicals after a serious health and safety incident forced the closure of the Taumarunui Transfer Station last Tuesday (25 November).

The incident occurred when unlabelled plastic containers holding a liquid chemical was left in the plastics recycling.

The containers ruptured while staff were bulking up plastics for off-site shipment, causing the liquid to splash onto one worker’s arm resulting in a burning sensation, and exposing another staff member to fumes that irritated their eyes and throat.

The Fire Brigade’s Hazardous Materials unit attended the scene and safely collected and contained the substance in a sealed container.

The chemical was believed to have been an acid, but without any labelling its exact nature remains unknown.

Council Manager Solid Waste, Anne Marie Westcott, said the incident highlights the very real risk to staff and the environment when chemicals are not disposed of properly.

“This was a major health and safety incident that could have been completely avoided,” said Ms Westcott.

“Unlabelled or partially full chemical containers pose a serious threat not only to our staff but also to the environment if they make their way into waterways. We need the community’s support to keep everyone safe.”

How to correctly dispose of unwanted chemicals

Residents are reminded that unwanted chemicals including agricultural, household, garden, automotive, or otherwise can be safely disposed of at either the Taumarunui or Ohakune Transfer Stations. There is a small charge to cover the cost of disposing of the material.

Council is asking everyone to:

• Ensure all containers are empty before disposing of them in recycling or rubbish bins.
• Never place containers with unknown liquids into recycling bays or general waste.
• Treat any container with unidentified liquids with extreme caution.
• Bring any chemical or unknown substance directly to the Taumarunui or Ohakune Transfer Stations, where trained staff have the proper processes to manage hazardous materials safely.
• Keep original labels on containers whenever possible, so staff can identify the contents.

Protecting people and the environment

Ms Westcott said the risk extends well beyond individual staff members.

“Incorrectly disposed chemicals can harm people, damage infrastructure, and contaminate waterways,” she said.

“We’re asking the community to help us prevent incidents like this and ensure our transfer stations remain safe places for both workers and the public.”

Residents with concerns or queries about chemical disposal can contact Council or speak with staff at their local transfer station.

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