A third-party operator suffered burn injuries today after entering a WasteServ site with bulky waste that was found to contain dangerous flares, the company said Saturday.

While the material was being unloaded, one of the flares ignited, causing facial injuries to the individual involved.

WasteServ said that the improper, and illegal disposal of flammable and hazardous materials can place lives at immediate risk.

WasteServ personnel immediately provided assistance on site and alerted first responders. The case has been reported to the police, and investigations are underway.

Pending the outcome of these investigations, WasteServ said it will be taking all necessary action to protect primarily its employees, its facilities, contractors and emergency responders. This includes refusing access to the individual and the vehicle involved until further notice.

The incident comes just days after a flash fire at the Magħtab landfill, during which WasteServ employees and the Civil Protection Department worked for hours to contain the situation.

That fire spread within seconds and required a coordinated emergency response, with WasteServ operators using heavy machinery on site while CPD crews supported the operation with specialised firefighting resources.

"These incidents show, in the clearest possible way, that irresponsible waste disposal is not a minor offence. Flares, batteries and other flammable materials can ignite without warning, endangering workers, emergency responders, nearby communities and the persons handling them," WasteServ said.

WasteServ said it has invested heavily in firefighting equipment, training and emergency preparedness. However, these safeguards also depend on waste being disposed of correctly and responsibly.

Hazardous or flammable materials must never be placed with bulky waste, black bags or other general waste streams. Anyone unsure about how to dispose of such material should seek guidance before transporting it to a waste facility by calling WasteServ's customer care number 8007 2200 or email [email protected].

"WasteServ employees and emergency responders should not be placed at risk because of irresponsible or unlawful disposal. Public cooperation is essential to prevent avoidable incidents and protect lives."