Public Announcements

Safety Update: Compressed Gas Cylinders Don't Belong in the Trash

A recent incident in Milwaukee serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers compressed gas cylinders pose to solid waste and recycling workers. Improperly disposed oxygen cylinders violently exploded when they were crushed by a garbage truck's compactor, sending shrapnel into the air and injuring a sanitation worker. Fortunately, the employee was wearing eye protection, which helped prevent even more serious injuries.

Compressed gas cylinders - including oxygen, propane, helium, acetylene, and other pressurized containers - can become explosive projectiles when crushed during collection or processing. These items should never be placed in household trash or recycling carts, even if they appear empty.

Please remind residents, customers, and employees to dispose of compressed gas cylinders through approved hazardous waste programs, return them to the supplier when possible, or follow local disposal guidelines.

A single improperly discarded cylinder can put collection crews, transfer station and landfill employees, and MRF workers at risk. When in doubt, keep it out of the trash.