Common Aussie bin habit could be posing hidden danger

A council has warned Aussies about a hidden danger tied to a common habit, warning they could be putting essential workers and their neighbours at risk.

It’s a common practice for a lot of Aussies but one local council says it could be putting waste workers and passers-by in danger.

Sometimes waste and recycling bins can be flung open, due to weather or birds prying open lids to have a feed.

Some residents have tried to come up with makeshift solutions to keep them closed.

Either by wedging water bottles, or other objects, in the handles or weighing them down using heavy objects such as bricks.

But one council says that creates its own set of problems.

This week the City of Onkaparinga in Adelaide’s south took to social media to warn residents about the hidden dangers.

“Please avoid using bungee cords, bricks, rocks or other heavy items to keep bin lids closed,” the council said in the post.

“These can pose significant risks to passers-by, cause damage to the bins, our collection trucks, and even passing vehicles when the bin is lifted to be emptied.”

The City of Onkaparinga council is warning about the dangers of residents using items to weigh down their bins. Picture: Supplied.

The council warns that brick can be flung into the air when collected. Picture: Supplied.

According to the council, residents report using these items to keep the lids closed during windy weather or to keep out birds.

But they have potential to cause damage when the bins are picked up by the waste trucks and the items go flying into the air.

The council suggested using bin straps or latches or gravity locks to keep lids in place.

The council provided a range of solutions. Picture: Supplied.

The council warned against using makeshift items to weigh down lids. Picture: Supplied.

However one commentator noted: “Shouldn’t have to purchase anything, these should be supplied free as people pay rates!!!”

The council replied from its official account that it had to “juggle” the services it provides.

“In this case, we can offer advice and support to help residents manage their bins effectively instead of supplying specific equipment,” said in the reply.

The council also said in the post: “If windy conditions are a concern, and you have space in your bin, consider waiting until next collection week when the weather may be calmer to put your bins out.”

Originally published as Common Aussie bin habit could be posing hidden danger