A red fire extinguisher

What to do with fire-extinguishers?

24 Jul 20

Fire extinguishers. One of those things that are handy to have but you keep your fingers crossed that you never have to use. 

As they’re packed full of pressurised chemicals, fire extinguishers are classed as hazardous waste and need to be disposed of carefully. 

Household recycling collection

Don’t put fire extinguishers into your household bins (recycling or otherwise) as this can put your refuse collectors in danger. 

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Household waste recycling centre (HWRC)

Fire extinguishers can be recycled at household waste and recycling centres, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • For safety reasons, most councils ask for the handles to be securely taped together or the safety pin to be in place
  • CO2 types should have the swivel horn in place or a blanking plate fitted
  • If you are a business, Chubb’s Extinguisher Recycling Unit (ERU) is a dedicated facility offering a service for the safe processing and recycling/disposal of fire extinguishers across the UK
  • Always observe the operating instructions if discharging a fire extinguisher
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Recycling is constantly evolving and changing so check back for updates or try our recycling locator to find out what you can recycle at home and where you can recycle or pass on unwanted items in your local area.