Residents in Birmingham have been facing significant challenges due to ongoing bin strikes. The strikes, which began in January, are leading to uncollected rubbish and overflowing bin areas, raising concerns about public health and hygiene.
The accumulation of vast piles of waste and the presence of rodents have become a major concern, with reports suggesting that rats in Birmingham have grown to “the size of cats.”
This situation has highlighted the importance of effective waste management systems and regular collections. Aside from being unsightly, when rubbish is not collected and taken away, bin storage areas can quickly become a hub for harmful bacteria and unpleasant smells and pose a public health hazard.

The Impact of Prolonged Waste Collection Disruption
- Reputational risk: Waste accumulation and poorly maintained bin areas, especially during periods of increased customer footfall, such as over bank holidays, could damage a business’s reputation.
- Unpleasant smells: Unpleasant odours from overflowing or dirty bins can easily travel and negatively impact customers’ experience.
- Public health hazard: When rubbish is not collected, bin storage areas can become a hub for harmful bacteria and pose a public health hazard.
Top Tips To Keep Your Bin Store Area Clean and Hygienic
Daily Waste Clearance:
- Make sure you sweep up regularly, especially after putting rubbish out or after the waste has been cleared, to stop debris from accumulating and smelling.
Bin and Area Clean-Up After Emptying:
- Clean your bins inside and out after they are emptied, and wash down the storage area properly.
Secure Rubbish Storage and Waste Separation:
- Use bin liners and bags to stop leaks, and separate your recycling, general waste, and food waste to reduce smells and the amount of rubbish.
Stop Smells and Pests Before They Start:
- Clean regularly with disinfectant and odour neutralisers, and seal any holes where pests could get in.

Get Expert Help! Emergency Waste Collection and Disinfection Services
The impact of prolonged bin strikes and waste collection disruption can lead to significant hygiene risks and reputational damage for businesses.
Rentokil Specialist Hygiene offers emergency waste collection and disinfection services to address these situations promptly. We’ll remove accumulated waste, disinfect the affected areas, and eliminate unpleasant odours, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment.
If you are facing challenges due to the ongoing bin strikes, contact us to arrange a rapid and effective service. Help protect your environment and public health and keep your customers’ image of your premises ‘tip top’ by acting fast.