A Mecklenburg County recycling worker was nearly struck by a saw blade at the Pence Road Material Recovery Facility in June, highlighting the dangers of including sharp or hazardous items in curbside recycling bins.

Safe Recycling Practices

Officials are urging residents not to put any sharp or hazardous items in their recycling bins. Instead, they should check with their local recycling agency for specific guidance on what can and cannot be recycled.

Items that are safe for recycling include plastic bottles, tubs and jugs, jars with lids, milk cartons, drink bottles, dairy containers, dish soap containers, condiment containers, glass bottles and jugs, metal cans, paper, cartons, and cardboard.

Items that should be kept out of recycling bins include aerosol cans, batteries, aluminum foil, ceramic items, clothing or textiles, diapers, electronics, food-tainted items, hazardous waste, household glass, medical waste, plastic bags and wrap, plastic cups, lids and straws, scrap metal, wood, shredded paper, styrofoam, tanglers, tires, and toys.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.