If you or someone in your household is showing symptoms of Covid-19 infection you need to know what to do with your waste.

Cleaning cloths and personal waste such as used tissues and disposable face coverings should be stored in disposable rubbish bags. These bags should be placed into another bag, tied securely and put aside for at least 72 hours before being put in your usual external household waste bin or authorised blue sack. Other kinds of household waste can be disposed of as normal.

To dispose of any face coverings or PPE you or members of your household use when self- isolating, you should double bag them and store them for 72 hours before putting them in a ‘black bag’ waste bin. Never put them in a recycling bin.

You may also wish to clean the handles on your bins after and before they have been emptied.

The Recycle for Dorset kerbside scheme has been designed to minimise contact between employees and the waste they collect but following the above guidance will further protect everyone involved during the collection process.

Household recycling centres will remain open for waste that cannot be collected at the kerbside, including garden waste. Residents are encouraged to continue to store waste at home, where possible, to reduce pressures on these services. If you or anyone in your household is unwell, has been in contact with someone with Covid-19 symptoms and/or self-isolating, you should not make a trip to a HRC.

Waste from a household where someone is exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19 infection should be double-bagged and left for 72 hours before being taken to an HRC, and only if it cannot be collected at the kerbside.