Guidance reviewed 6 October 2026.
A lighting upgrade can produce long tubes, compact fluorescent lamps, LEDs and other bulbs in the same project. Keeping those items identified helps you arrange the right collection rather than treating every lamp as the same waste.
Why fluorescent lamps need care
Fluorescent lamps contain mercury. The Health and Safety Executive’s WEEE processing guidance identifies exposure to mercury released by broken fluorescent tubes as a risk that must be managed during processing.
That is a good reason to prevent breakage during a workplace collection project. Do not crush tubes to fit a container or leave long lamps in an area where stock and equipment can fall onto them.
LEDs and older lamps are not identical
A mixed lighting load may include different technologies. Describe the lamps as well as you can, or send an overall photo if the types are unclear. Do not assume that a filament bulb and an LED filament lamp have the same WEEE status.
Our friendly team can help you arrange a collection for your old lamps and tubes. If a contractor is changing the lighting, clarify who is responsible for retaining the removed lamps and booking the collection.
Choose storage around the job
Long tubes need a suitable container or packing arrangement that supports their length. Small lamps need containment that limits movement and prevents breakage. Ask about the load before purchasing an unsuitable box or improvising storage.
Keep the collection area protected from accidental impact and make it clear that the contents are lamps awaiting collection. Where broken lamps are already present, report that to the team rather than mixing them unnoticed into the rest of the load.
What to send for a lamp recycling quote
- Your collection postcode.
- A brief description, such as fluorescent tubes, compact lamps or mixed lighting.
- The number of boxes or approximate load size, if known.
- Whether any lamps are broken and how they are currently contained.
You do not need an exact lamp count simply to begin the enquiry. A clear overall photograph can help us understand a lighting replacement project.
One-off upgrades or regular collections
Quality Waste can discuss a single lighting clearance or ongoing lamp recycling arrangements for businesses. See lamp, bulb and fluorescent tube recycling and request a collection quote. Confirm the appropriate waste documentation for your particular lamps before booking.