After employees at the Solid Waste section of the Ministry of Works and Engineering publicly complained, Minister Derrick Burgess has asked Bermudians to properly dispose of their waste.

In a ZBM news report on Wednesday night, reporter Sangita Iyer reported that Ministry employees were complaining that they were finding metal objects, liquids, shards of glass and even faeces in domestic waste at the Marsh Folly Facility — all of which pose safety hazards for the workers.

"Members of the public will be aware that all of these materials pose threats of injury and infection to our staff," said Mr. Burgess.

"In the past, metal objects not detected in the material have resulted in damage to the grinding equipment.

"On occasion, and of even greater concern, metal objects have even led to staff injuries."

Mr. Burgess hopes that the people of Bermuda will take greater care to properly dispose of waste but he has not ruled out the possibility of legislation if the problem is not resolved.

"We would do it with some reluctance, but if we have to do it to ensure workers safety, we will," Mr. Burgess said. "The majority of people follow regulations.

"We really hate to legislate for people's bad behaviour, but we might have to. It's appalling. In Singapore, if you're caught spitting gum on the sidewalk, it's a $500 fine. Do you want to go that route?"

Anyone unsure about the proper methods of waste disposal is asked to contact the Waste Management Office at 297-7953, or to look at the "What Goes Where" page in the telephone book.

"We just ask people to help us out. Help Keep Bermuda Beautiful," said Mr. Burgess.