Railway sleepers were extremely popular because of their rustic look. Since the dangers to health and the environment have been known, old sleepers have been classified as hazardous waste. When it comes to disposal, special regulations must be observed because the material requires professional processing.
Old railway sleepers are almost always hazardous waste
Why railway sleepers are dangerous
Wooden railway sleepers were treated with agents containing creosote to protect them from environmental influences and pest infestation. It is now known that these products contain numerous toxic substances such as benzo(a)pyrene. These are considered carcinogenic and are sweated out from the wood even after decades. They can enter the body through skin contact or through the air we breathe.
Identify old sleepers containing creosote:
- Material gives off a typical smell of tar when it is hot
- Boards show sticky and black discharge
- gnarled wood is cracked and discolored greyish but without traces of fungi or pests
How old sleepers are disposed of
Since railway sleepers not only contain toxic tar oil but also other residues such as waste oil and soot from railways or pesticides, the material is classified as hazardous waste. You must not burn the contaminated wood in the fireplace or on the campfire, as the substances can get into the environment in this way. Instead, ask your local waste disposal company how you can dispose of the contaminated sites.
Possible costs
Small quantities of railway sleepers are often accepted at the recycling center free of charge. This changes depending on the region and volume. Loads of one ton cost around 140 euros. In addition to the public waste disposal companies, there are special waste recyclers who provide containers. These can be booked at a flat rate or billed by weight.
Beware of online offers
In the past, it was common practice to use railway sleepers in landscape and garden design. They were installed in children's playgrounds and parks because the wood requires no maintenance and is still weather-resistant.
legal situation
Placing contaminated old sleepers on the market has been prohibited since 2002. The material may no longer be sold or given away. Nevertheless, there are numerous internet auctions or free offers from ignorant private dealers. Such actions constitute a criminal offense, which is why you should stay away from them.
The railways are only allowed to hand over their worn-out sleepers if the statutory limits are not exceeded. The value for benzo(a)pyrene is 50 milligrams per kilogram. The water-soluble phenols must not exceed a limit of three percent.
Wood containing creosote that has already been installed must be removed if it is a sensitive area. This includes drinking water protection areas and playgrounds as well as interior spaces and gardens. Contact with people is crucial. Subsequent interventions such as sawing and drilling should be avoided.
tips
If you have bought contaminated railway sleepers out of ignorance, make the seller aware of the applicable regulations and request a return.