What to Know About Dumpster and Trash Fires

What to Know About Dumpster and Trash Fires
What to Know About Dumpster and Trash Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, dumpsters and trash rooms are among the primary sites of reported fires. Use these tips for preventing dumpster fires to reduce risk of loss and injury in your workplace.

Keep Hazardous Waste out of Dumpsters

Dumpsters are not a catch-all for any type of waste. Gasoline, oil and other flammable liquids don’t belong in the trash room. This rule also applies to sealed or empty containers and items such as rags that are saturated in chemicals.

Not all hazardous waste is liquid. The Environmental Protection Agency cites ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity and toxicity as the primary characteristics that define hazardous waste. Their website includes detailed information regarding identification and disposal.

Watch for Signs of Spontaneous Combustion

Fires don’t always require an accelerant. Organic waste generates heat as it decomposes, which can result in temperatures sufficient to cause combustion.

Many locales have regulations governing disposal of grass clippings, compost and other dead plant matter. Check with your local community to make sure you’re in compliance.

Always Secure Dumpsters

Unfortunately, dumpsters often attract vandals who cause destruction simply for its own sake. If it’s not possible to store the dumpster in a fenced, locked area, be sure to lock down the dumpster lid.

WasteCaddy: “Like Having Another Employee on Staff”

Fires are only one of the reasons why trash rooms are the most dangerous spot in a workplace. Our popular WasteCaddy reduces injury risk factors such as pushing heavy dumpsters or pinching fingers in the lid.

Visit our website to learn more about the WasteCaddy and other battery-powered tugs, pushers and movers from DJ Products.

Tips for Choosing the Right Dumpster Moving Solution

With So Many Options, You Have to be Sure You Make the Right Choice. We Can Help.
With So Many Options, You Have to be Sure You Make the Right Choice. We Can Help.

Do your employees have to work in pairs to move the dumpster? According to insurance statistics, the trash room is the most high-risk area on your property.

Investing in a dumpster mover can quickly pay for itself through reduced labor costs and fewer work-related injuries. Use these tips to choose the most effective dumpster-moving solution for your multi-family community.

1. Choose a Product That Is Built for the Job

It can be tempting to create a DIY solution by using fork lifts, golf carts or other motorized items already in use on your property. Since they’re not designed to the specific requirements of a dumpster mover, they can actually increase the risk of injury.

2. Choose a Company that Understands Your Needs

Some providers try to be all things to all people, and as a result they really offer nothing of value. When you work with a company that focuses on commercial movers and tugs, they have the experience and knowledge to assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.

3. Work with an Established Provider

Purchasing a dumpster mover is a little more involved than buying office supplies. You’re investing in a product that should serve you for many years to come with the proper care. Beware of companies with no track record or ones that are vague about replacement parts and other maintenance requirements.

DJ Products: Providing Industrial Mover Solutions for More than 20 Years

Find out how products like our best-selling CartCaddyLite can increase productivity while saving you money. Visit our website to learn more form one of our friendly and knowledgeable sales engineers.