Misclassified gas containers pose safety hazards in Norway’s waste disposal facilities

Misclassified gas containers are increasingly becoming a safety hazard in waste disposal facilities in Norway. The surge in this issue is linked to the rise in private imports of nitrous oxide, which escalated from 2 tons in 2020 to a staggering 232 tons last year. While commonly used in the food industry and medical applications, nitrous oxide is increasingly misused as a recreational drug.

Oslo’s largest waste incineration facility reported nearly 150 explosions this year, many attributed to improperly sorted nitrous oxide containers. The explosive potential poses a threat to workers both during waste collection and at treatment plants. Lars Pedersen of Avfall Sør emphasizes that gas containers must be treated as hazardous waste, advising individuals to consult recycling centers if unsure about disposal.

The issue is especially pronounced in Oslo, where incidents at the Haraldrud facility have become alarmingly frequent, resembling an unintentional New Year’s celebration nearly every day. Jørgen Bakke Fredriksen from the Oslo Waste Management Agency notes that while many containers are sorted correctly, a significant number still end up in incinerators, leading to potential water leaks and costly repairs.

Avfall Norge, representing 200 companies in the waste industry, advocates for a ban on the sale of nitrous oxide containers to private individuals and asserts that regulations should target the misuse of nitrous oxide, particularly among minors. The government is exploring potential measures to address this growing concern, with a proposal expected for public consultation this autumn.