You can find pallets everywhere, and you can usually get them for free. It is very common to use wooden pallets at bonfires and festivals. While generally speaking it is safe to burn pallets, there are some cases where you should not burn them.
Is it Ok to Burn Wooden Pallets?
The combustion of some pallets releases toxic chemicals as gases. A pallet marked "MB" on the side, a pallet that is painted, or a pallet that is visibly contaminated by chemicals cannot be used as firewood. If a pallet has an MB stamp, that means it has been treated with methyl bromide and should not be burned.
In some cases, it can be difficult to determine whether a pallet is contaminated or if it can be used. Make sure you know exactly what kind of pallet you have. By doing so, you can ensure that you are not burning anything contaminated. While it may seem obvious, any non-wooden pallets such as plastic or metal pallets should not be burned.
How can I tell if a pallet is suitable for firewood?
Pallets tend to be a little bit suspicious to most people. How dirty are pallets? Can pallets be toxic? Is it okay to bring pallets inside? Pallets are often the subject of these questions.
Most pallets shouldn't be stored indoors since some are too dirty, some are toxic, and some are too dangerous to use. Especially with used pallets, it's hard to tell the history of that pallet and if it's safe to burn.
Pallets that are contaminated or painted can be easily identified visually. The only way to tell if the pallet has been treated with Methyl Bromide (MB) is to look for the stamp.
What Are The Markings Or Stamps On Pallet Wood?
Marks or stamps are usually found on the longest sides of pallets. In general, the stamp is located at the end of the long side on a solid square block. Pallets without markings or stamps are typically used only locally.
Pallets That Are NOT Safe to Burn
The following types of pallets should never be burned:
- MB (Methyl Bromide) - Treated with toxic fumigant that releases harmful gases when burned
- EUR Pallets - European pallets that may have unknown treatment history
- Blue Pallets (CHEP) - Rental pallets with unknown chemical exposure
- Red Pallets (PECO) - Rental pallets with unknown chemical exposure
- Green Pallets - Often treated with chemicals or are rental pallets
- Painted Pallets - Paint releases toxic fumes when burned
- Stained or Contaminated Pallets - May have absorbed chemicals, oils, or other hazardous materials
Pallets That Are Safe to Burn
The following pallets are generally safe to use as firewood:
- New/Unmarked Pallets - Fresh pallets with no chemical treatment
- DB (Debarked) - Only had bark removed, no chemical treatment
- HT (Heat Treated) - Treated with heat only, no chemicals used
- KD (Kiln Dried) - Dried in a kiln, safe for burning
- EPAL Pallets - European standard pallets that are heat treated
Safety Tips for Burning Pallets
- Always check for stamps - Look for treatment markings before burning
- Inspect for contamination - Avoid pallets with stains, spills, or unusual odors
- Remove nails and staples - Metal can cause problems in fire pits and stoves
- Burn outdoors - Even safe pallets should be burned in well-ventilated areas
- Don't burn painted wood - Any painted surface can release toxic fumes
Conclusion
While many pallets are perfectly safe to burn, it's crucial to identify the type of pallet you have before using it as firewood. Look for stamps and markings, avoid any pallets that show signs of chemical treatment or contamination, and when in doubt, don't burn it. The safest options are new, unmarked pallets or those clearly stamped with HT (Heat Treated) or KD (Kiln Dried).
