Talks aimed at ending a council worker strike that has seen rubbish pile up in Scottish streets are continuing amid warnings over the impact on public health. Bosses at Public Health Scotland have told local authorities the “decontamination of public areas where bins have overflowed may be required”.
It comes as the organisation warned that “if organic waste builds up it can become a risk to human health”. People are being advised to double bag items such as food waste and used nappies or put them in containers.
Public Health Scotland said the spread of strike action by council workers – sparked by a dispute over pay – may result in “more widespread waste accumulation”. Waste workers at Edinburgh City Council walked out more than a week ago on August 18, with their action due to continue until August 30.
