Hazardous waste collection concluding at Recycle Works Central

The St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment’s household hazardous waste collection program offers a solution for the safe and proper disposal of toxic materials.  The popular program offered through the Division of Environmental Health and Protection’s Recycle Works Central location will end for the year on Saturday, Nov. 24.  The program is expected to return in the spring of 2013.

Through the program,St. Charles County residents may safely dispose of household hazardous waste that typically is not collected by curbside recycling programs.  Residents may bring unwanted items like chemicals, automobile fluids, pesticides, and oil-based paints (latex paints are not accepted) to Recycle Works Central,60 Triad South Drive in St. Charles from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, with no appointment necessary.

In addition, an end-of-the-season collection will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24.  There is a nominal $10 fee for loads up to 50 pounds, with additional fees for larger sized collections.  For a list of the materials accepted at the facility, please call 949-1800 or visit http://www.scchealth.org/docs/es/docs/recycle/rwc.html.  This service is open to St. Charles County residents only, and proof of residency may be required.

To ensure safety, please follow these precautions in bringing hazardous waste to Recycle Works Central:

1)      Make certain that the waste is properly packed and do not mix with other materials.

2)      Whenever possible, leave materials in their original containers.  Items that are not in their original packaging should be clearly labeled with their contents.  Mixed waste in plastic bags will not be accepted.

3)      Be sure the lid is securely attached.

4)      Place the material inside a box that is lined with newspaper (filling gaps with additional crumpled newspaper will help prevent spills during transport to the facility)

5)      Place the filled box in the trunk of your vehicle while transporting to Recycle Works Central.

6)      Upon arrival at the facility, please remain in your vehicle until assisted.

Throughout the year, members of the Division of Environmental Public Health and Protection work with area businesses and organizations to promote healthy conditions in our community.  To learn more ways the division helps to ensure public safety, call 949-1800 or visit www.scchealth.org.