Operator Injured After Dumping Dangerous Flares With Bulky Waste At Magħtab

A third-party operator suffered burn injuries today after entering a WasteServ Malta facility with bulky waste that was later found to contain dangerous flares.

During the unloading process, one of the flares ignited, causing facial injuries to the individual involved.

WasteServ personnel immediately assisted the injured operator on site and alerted the emergency services. The case has been reported to the police, and investigations are currently underway to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

The organisation has stated that, pending the outcome of these investigations, it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its employees, contractors, facilities and emergency responders.

This includes restricting access to the individual and the vehicle involved until further notice.

The incident has highlighted the serious risks associated with the improper and illegal disposal of hazardous materials.

WasteServ warned that items such as flares, batteries and other flammable substances can ignite without warning, posing a significant danger to workers and emergency personnel.

This event occurred just days after a flash fire at the Magħtab landfill, where WasteServ staff and the Civil Protection Department worked for several hours to bring the situation under control.

The fire spread rapidly and required a coordinated response, with heavy machinery used on site and specialist firefighting support deployed.

WasteServ stressed that it has invested significantly in firefighting equipment, staff training and emergency preparedness.

However, it emphasised that these safeguards are only effective when waste is correctly sorted and responsibly disposed of.

The organisation reiterated that hazardous materials must never be placed with bulky waste or general waste streams.

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