When extreme fire incidents occur in recycling plants, a number of threats are posed to the exposed receptors due to the production of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds, atmospheric particulate matters and gases, attributed mainly to plastics combustion. Moreover, the generated smoke plume that is usually dispersed in long distances, the possible chemical explosions that can be secondarily produced and the resulted thermal radiation waves are serious concerns for the emergency responders. Furthermore, factors such as meteorological data and accessibility of fire-fighting means can be critical for the duration of every response operation.

While the establishment of early warning mechanisms sounds mandatory, it is essential that accurate information for the dispersion of smoke plume and data, regarding concentrations of produced toxic compounds to be exchanged rapidly and in real-time among the involved parties. Additionally, the use of science and technology in combination with the operational improvements and adjustments, based on past incidents could potentially boost the response procedures, while fire-resistant materials in gear and equipment based on emerging technologies could smoothen the processes of fire mitigation and health impacts limitation.

This research aims to present major short- and long-term health challenges that emergency responders, nearby communities, and ecosystems need to face after the occurrence of large-scale fire incidents in recycling plants. Prime goal of this study is to inform related experts and decision makers on the importance of lessons learned in terms of safety regulations and fire response plans, as well as to highlight the role of technology and experience in sensitive topics, such as the health safety of responders and the possible need for evacuation of affected populations. In that framework, two indicative fire cases that occurred in two recycling plants located in Greece and the United Kingdom, respectively, are described, in order to record lessons learned relevant to the followed procedures and discuss on possible involvement of different response mechanisms for anticipating future relevant incidents.