When you’re running a busy business, the last thing you need is confusing or conflicting advice about waste disposal. Unfortunately, many general waste companies mislead their customers into believing all non hazardous – offensive clinical waste (such as hygiene waste) can simply go into the general bin.
This isn’t correct — and following that advice could put your business at risk.
What Counts as Non-Offensive Clinical Waste?
Non-offensive clinical waste covers items that aren’t infectious or hazardous but are still unsuitable for normal black bag waste. Common examples include:
- Sanitary waste
- Nappies
- Incontinence pads
- Items lightly contaminated with bodily fluids but not infectious
Because this type of waste is produced frequently in businesses like nurseries, care homes, dental practices, and offices, it needs to be managed properly.
The 7kg Limit – One Sack, No More
Current UK waste regulations clearly state that businesses may only place up to 7kg (about one sack) of non-offensive clinical waste in with their general waste per collection.
Anything above this limit must be disposed of via a licensed clinical waste route.
This rule is in place to:
- Protect public health and safety – Too much hygiene waste in general bins creates risks of odour, spillage, and contamination for collection crews and the public.
- Safeguard the environment – Energy recovery plants and landfill sites aren’t designed to handle large volumes of clinical waste.
- Ensure legal compliance – Businesses have a duty of care. If audited, you must prove your waste is managed correctly.
Why Following Wrong Advice Could Cost You
General waste companies are excellent at what they do — collecting and managing everyday rubbish. However, they are not always up to date with the latest regulations around clinical waste and may misinterpret the rules.
If you’ve been told it’s fine to throw all your hygiene waste in with the general rubbish, you’re not alone. But doing so can lead to:
- Fines and penalties – Waste regulations put the responsibility on you, the waste producer, not the waste collector.
- Reputational damage – Odour complaints, leaks, or improper disposal linked back to your business can harm your reputation.
- Higher costs later – Cutting corners often results in costly corrective action if regulators get involved.
The Right Way – Let Kernow Clinical Waste Handle It
If your business produces more than 7kg of hygiene or non-offensive clinical waste per collection, you need a proper disposal service. That’s where we come in.
At Kernow Clinical Waste Ltd, we:
- Provide tiger-striped sacks and other approved containers.
- Collect and dispose of your waste safely and legally.
- Supply the correct waste transfer and consignment notes so you’re fully compliant.
- Offer a local, reliable, and friendly service — unlike large national firms, we’re right here in Cornwall and genuinely care about our customers.
Final Thought
The 7kg rule isn’t a suggestion — it’s a legal requirement. While some general waste providers may downplay or misinterpret it, the risks fall on your shoulders if things go wrong.
By working with a dedicated clinical waste provider like Kernow Clinical Waste, you can be confident your business is compliant, your staff are protected, and your reputation stays intact.
👉 Need advice or a collection service you can trust? Contact Kernow Clinical Waste today — your local experts in safe and compliant waste disposal.
Don’t just take our word for it; the proof is in the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/healthcare-and-related-wastes-how-to-classify