Fluorescent Waste
Fluorescent tubes find widespread application in illuminating offices, schools, and various commercial settings. Yet, once these tubes reach the end of their lifespan, they become classified as hazardous waste, primarily due to their mercury content. To ensure both safety and compliance, business owners are required to take appropriate measures for the proper disposal of fluorescent tubes.
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Fluorescent Waste Disposal
Fluorescent tubes, often referred to as fluorescent bulbs or fluorescent lights, are cylindrical glass tubes designed to transform fluorescence into visible light. These tubes, although primarily composed of glass, also incorporate some type of metal, typically aluminum. The inner surface of the tube is coated with phosphor, which emits a brilliant glow when exposed to ultraviolet radiation emitted by mercury vapour.
It’s important to note that the term “fluorescence” is closely associated with mercury or mercury vapors, which can be highly toxic when mishandled. While older fluorescent bulbs used to contain significantly higher levels of mercury, today’s average fluorescent bulb contains approximately 3.5 milligrams of mercury.
Fluorescent Waste Containers
Standard two-wheel bin like you have at home
Four-wheel WEEE bin for fluorescent tube storage
A large bin suitable for storing lots of old tubes
3-Step Fluorescent Waste Disposal
Step1
Get A Quote
Easily get a quote for your waste disposal requirements in just a few quick and simple steps.
Step2
Arrange Delivery
If you are satisfied with the type, quantity and size of the bins, tell us when you would like your bins delivered.
Step3
Get Your Waste Collected
We organise waste collection at a time and frequency that suits you based on the amount of waste you produce.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recycle light bulbs?
You can recycle most light bulbs and fluorescent tubes from your home at some household waste recycling centres. However, you can’t recycle incandescent or halogen light bulbs. Businesses can recycle light bulbs by arranging commercial waste collection of old bulbs, separate from your glass recycling collections.
What’s the difference between a light bulb and a fluorescent tube?
While they serve the same purpose, the main difference between light bulbs and fluorescent tubes is that fluorescent tubes are more energy efficient. This is because they produce significantly less heat than a regular bulb.
How are fluorescent tubes recycled?
Once your old fluorescent tubes are collected, they’re taken to a specialised recycling plant. Here, hazardous elements like mercury and phosphor powder are safely removed and dealt with. The glass and metal parts are cleaned, checked for contaminants, and then recycled separately, following the standard recycling procedures for their respective waste types.
Can fluorescent tubes go to landfill?
Fluorescent tubes should never find their way into landfills. The reason behind this is the potential release of mercury they contain, which could contaminate the environment, including water sources and wildlife habitats.
As a business entity, it is imperative to adhere to the Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations of 2013. These regulations mandate the safe and responsible disposal of fluorescent tubes. Due to their classification as hazardous waste, it is your obligation to arrange for their proper disposal through a licensed carrier. This ensures that the tubes are recycled and prevented from being deposited in landfills.