To date, users have returned more than 23.5 million containers across the two reverse vending machines, located outside North Orange Shopping Centre and the former Flip Out premises in Edward Street.

But with new social distancing rules and travel restrictions in place, questions have been raised about whether people are allowed to use the Orange RVMs.

The short answer is yes, according to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, provided users adhered to the latest public health orders, including the two-person limit on public gatherings, unless from the same household.

"The health and wellbeing of Return and Earn participants, staff and return point operators are the primary focus in these difficult times," a spokesman said.

"Return and Earn can be accessed for returns if it is in line with the most recent advice from the NSW Government.

"Recent orders limit the reasons for people leaving their homes without a reasonable excuse - people continuing to use the Return and Earn scheme need to ensure they comply with the latest public health orders."

The spokesman said the two Orange return points had been consistent contributors to the scheme.

"[There has been] no significant change in containers returned over the past year," he said.

He said anyone visiting a Return and Earn return point should maintain social distancing of at least 1.5 metres from others and practise good hygiene including using hand sanitiser or wet wipes to clean hands before and after returning and to stay home if they felt unwell.

The spokesperson also pointed out the RVMs offered a touch-free option for people who were not comfortable touching the screens, by using the MyTOMRA app on their phone.

The app provides a barcode, which can be scanned at the RVM, with funds sent electronically once the containers are deposited.

People still have to touch their containers, however.

"Additional signage and markings on the ground have also been implemented to remind participants to maintain social distancing," the spokesman said.

Users can visit the Return and Earn website, its social media channels or the MyTOMRA app to access the latest information on which RVMs are open and COVID-19 details.

Currently, Ronald McDonald House Orange is the local donation partner, along with the World Wildlife Fund's Cans for Koalas appeal and Assistance Dogs Australia.

"The latest updates and advice from government in relation to COVID-19 are being closely monitored and Return and Earn will follow government recommendations to ensure the safest environment possible," the spokesperson said.

The North Orange RVM was opened in January 2018 and the Flip Out machine followed in August.