Introduction

Somerset recycle sites are managed by Biffa on behalf of Somerset Council.

Recycle sites have heavy machinery operating and a constant flow of traffic so it is important to take care to ensure your safety and that of other users and staff.

Site safety rules

• At all times –  Switch off your engine and apply your parking brake before unloading.
• Ask site staff for advice and assistance if needed.
• Please assess the traffic situation when entering site, then drive carefully and follow the directed traffic routes.
• Observe the speed limits at all times and give consideration to pedestrians and other vehicles using the site.
• If bringing children onto the site, please keep them with you at all times. You are responsible for their safety.
• Animals must remain in your vehicle at all times.
• Keep your personal belongings and car secure when you are away from your vehicle.
• Follow all site instruction signs and safety notices.
• Wear footwear that covers and protects your feet. Open toed footwear is not suitable.
• Consider wearing gloves.
• Do not attempt to remove any items from the site.
• Whilst using access steps, make sure you do not obstruct your vision, and use the handrails when possible.
• Do not climb onto or into the skips. Get help from staff if you need to get an item back.
• Consider the weight and size of your load to make sure you are able to deposit it safely. Site staff can help with bulky items but may not be able to help if waste is unreasonably heavy.
• Please note, site staff will not assist with the unloading of asbestos. You can find advice on asbestos disposal here.
• Comply with any request or instruction given by site staff.
• Do not take explosives, ammunition or fireworks to a recycling centre for disposal.
• Please note that you cannot take petrol and diesel to the recycling centres. Petrol and diesel should be taken to a garage for reuse or disposal.
• It may be necessary to close the site at short notice due to severe weather, or for skip movements or site maintenance.  This is at the discretion of the site manager.
• Use of recycling sites is subject to the provisions of the vehicle and trailer permit system. You can find more information about permits and how to apply here
• Do not bring your waste in on foot or by using wheelbarrows or hand pushed trailers, unless there is pedestrian access. If this is the case, hand carried materials are permitted.
• Treat the site staff with respect.  They are there to help you.
• Only Household Waste can be taken to sites, except to the 10 sites with chargeable business waste areas.  You may be asked to complete a ‘Household Waste Declaration Form’ to confirm you only have household waste.
• When materials are deposited at recycling sites, they become the property of the site contractor, Biffa. Separated items are passed on for reuse or recycling where this is possible.
• If you bring materials in a commercial van or trailer, you may be asked about the source of the waste and to sign a ‘household waste declaration form’. Business users must comply with our vehicle and trailer permit scheme that aims to cut congestion. Business users do not need and cannot apply for permits.
• Sort recycling and refuse before visiting a site.  Staff may open black bags or other containers to make sure all the recycling has been separated.
• When recycling or disposing of electrical and electronic items, including mobile phones, laptops and PC s, remove any SIM cards. Also make sure all sensitive information is fully deleted.