Bonfires should not be used to dispose of waste from commercial or industrial premises that might be harmful to health or the environment.

That is the reminder from the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture with Bonfire Night looming.

Rubber, metals, plastics, furniture, foam, oils, tyres and fuel are among materials that require controlled disposal.

Ralph Peake MHK, Member of DEFA with responsibility for the environment, said: ‘Uncontrolled burning of unsuitable waste produces smoke, odours and particulates that pollute the environment, are hazardous to health and are a nuisance to neighbours.

‘The Public Health Act 1990 obliges those creating commercial and/or industrial waste to dispose of it correctly. This includes storage, transportation and disposal at a licenced facility.

‘DEFA has a useful guide to what can and can’t be burned and alternative methods of disposal. This can be found at www.gov.im/about-the-government/departments/environment-food-and-agriculture/environment-safety-and-health-directorate/burning-waste/.

‘Ultimately, burning waste that should be disposed of in other ways may lead to prosecution and substantial fines.’

Mr Peake stressed the reminder did not relate to household, community or other bonfires, where garden waste, paper and similar are burned.

For advice, ring 01624 685892 or email simon.renton@gov.im.