No, our compactors are not made for shells.
Published on 08/11/2025 // South West
When GILLARD's ORK single-block compactor receives a funny surprise
There are days when the unexpected knocks on the door of waste disposal sites. Recently, in the Arcachon Bay, a shell was deposited in one of our ORK monobloc compactors. Yes, a real explosive device in the middle of the waste.
Fortunately, everything turned out well. The on-site team responded immediately, law enforcement intervened, and the object was neutralized without incident. But the event was somewhat surprising.
At GILLARD, we design robust, high-performance compactors. They are designed to efficiently compact a wide variety of waste, but not to accommodate munitions. Our equipment is powerful, but it is no substitute for an armored vehicle.
This news story is an opportunity to reiterate a key point: a recycling center is not a weapons or war memorabilia depot. Dangerous or military items must be treated specifically, outside of traditional collection channels.
An important message
This type of incident highlights the need to scrupulously follow sorting instructions. The safety of staff, users, and equipment depends on it. Our machines are designed to last, but they are not invincible.
We thank the field teams for their responsiveness, and call on everyone to remain vigilant in the use of sorting equipment.
