Dumpsters are almost literally a “catch-all” solution to waste. However, there are certain items—chemical waste, liquid propane, and those darn CFL bulbs—that do not belong. Thankfully, most other garbage can go into a dumpster safely and legally.
Trash rooms are safer when everyone knows where different items need to go. For the best dumpster safety, workers should use our WasteCaddy dumpster mover to prevent and alleviate back and arm injuries.
Good to Go: Items You CAN Put in Dumpsters
Here’s a list of questionable items that are allowed; virtually all trash collection agencies let you put these in dumpsters:
• Appliances that do not contain refrigerant
• Aerosol cans, if empty
• Furniture, except for upholstered items in some locations
• Yard waste, except for large volumes of dirt in some locations
• Construction and demolition waste, with weight or volume restrictions
• Electronics, in small quantities if local law allows
How to Safely Handle Dumpster Waste
To prevent injuries, trash fires, and costly fines for improper disposal, try these solutions:
• Provide collection boxes for paint cans, fluorescent lights, rechargeable batteries, etc., so people are not tempted to hide these in the trash
• Post signs for workers to double-check allowed and not-allowed items
• Empty dumpsters frequently to prevent overflow and items left on the ground
• Use motorized tools like the WasteCaddy dumpster mover to haul trash containers with lower risk of injury
These simple but powerful steps can greatly improve dumpster safety. Get the right equipment for moving dumpsters safely to make the job even safer and reduce worker injuries. Visit DJ Products to learn more about the WasteCaddy dumpster mover and other waste container movers.