Sydney chemical disposal day

Tradies often deal with powerful machinery and toxic chemicals on a daily basis, and while these are essential for the work of tradesmen, disposing of harmful materials regularly can be difficult.

The City of Sydney has recognised the importance of safely getting rid of toxic chemicals and materials for both tradesmen and households, with the annual Chemical CleanOut day happening this Sunday (July 8).

Sydney lord mayor Clover Moore said the annual event was a safe and responsible way of disposing chemicals and other substances, while still protecting the environment.

"Some older chemicals have alarming levels of toxicity - even a small amount, accidentally tipped down the drain or gutter could contaminate our waterways and harm marine life," Ms Moore said.

Last year, deadly poisons such as arsenic and the pesticide DDT - both banned in Australia for 20 years - were dropped off at the collection amongst more than 16 tonnes of other materials.

"It's amazing to think seemingly harmless household items like fluorescent light globes and tubes contain mercury, while batteries contain lead and cadmium - serious heavy metals and known carcinogens that can pose risks to human health and the environment," Ms Moore explained.

The drop-off point is at the old Royal South Sydney Hospital car park in Zetland and the collection will run from 9am to 3.30pm.