Exploding 'vape batteries' cause fires in three bin lorries across Glasgow

Exploding “vape batteries” have caused fires in the back of three bin lorries across Glasgow.

In one incident, on West Princes Street, a driver was forced to dump a load of rubbish in the middle of the road.

Chris Mitchell, convener at the GMB union, told STV News a second blaze broke out in the back of one of the new waste collection vehicles near Hillhead Secondary School on September 15.

“There was smoke coming out of the rubbish, and the driver had to run and get a fire extinguisher from the school janitor while they waited for the fire service,” he said.

Chris Mitchell, from GMB Union, told STV News a second blaze broke out in the back of one of the new vehicles. Chris Mitchell

He said that the “daunting incident” involved a recycling vehicle that was carrying combustible cardboard.

There was a third incident on Chamberlain Road on September 7.

All three fires happened in the back of new vehicles which were introduced to replace the 16-year-old fleet.

Mr Mitchell said vape and lithium batteries are likely to be the cause, saying: “Any type of battery really, we’re seeing more people not disposing of them properly and chucking them in our bins.”

Chris Mitchell

All three of the incidents happened in the back of brand new vehicles which were introduced to replace the 16-year-old fleet.

He warned that it was only a matter of time before someone was seriously hurt.

“It only takes one major incident, and then there’s a fatal accident inquiry and questions will be asked by health and safety, and what are they going to say? Nothing.

“Something has to be done,” he said.

He is calling on Glasgow City Council to launch a campaign to raise awareness on how to dispose of batteries.

“It can be so dangerous, the public needs to be reminded of how to dispose of them safely,” he said.

“I’m proud of the workers last week, we’ve been lucky three times now I don’t want there to be a fourth,” he said.

Mr Mitchell added that his workers are more “apprehensive” while doing their jobs following the incidents.

“We’ve always had bin fires but never three in the space of two weeks,” he told STV News.

“It’s always been a dangerous job but it’s becoming more dangerous with the increase in electric appliances and vapes.”

He added that the issue is nationwide, saying bin lorry fires are happening across the UK.

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said batteries should never be disposed of in a household bin.

“Batteries and other hazardous items going into household waste is a matter of great concern, both in Glasgow and throughout the waste industry in the UK as a whole,” the council said.

“In recent years, there have been many fires and other incidents at waste facilities across the country following the incorrect disposal of hazardous items, such as batteries, vapes, pressurised cannisters and other electrical equipment.

“Residents should always recycle their hazardous waste at their local recycling centre. Household batteries can also be recycled in a wide range of places, such as supermarkets, retail outlets and other public buildings.

“Batteries should never be disposed of in a household bin.

“Putting batteries into household waste puts refuse collectors at risk but can also disrupt the wider waste management system.

“In the recent Glasgow incidents, staff followed the correct safety procedures and this helped to minimise the impact of the incidents.

“We will continue to monitor this issue very closely to keep our staff and facilities as safe as possible.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has been contacted for comment.