Additionally, improper disposal of these items can result in fines, legal consequences, and environmental harm. Therefore, it is essential to understand what should and should not be put in the dumpster to ensure safe and responsible waste disposal.
Here is a list of things you can’t put into a dumpster:
Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste is any material that can pose a threat to human health or the environment. This includes chemicals, pesticides, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and electronics. These wastes should never be thrown into a dumpster.
There are specific regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that dictate how hazardous waste should be disposed of. Businesses are legally required to dispose of hazardous waste properly, but homeowners can take advantage of local collection events or utilize hazardous waste disposal services.
Medical Waste
Medical waste is any material generated during medical treatment, including needles, syringes, and other sharp tools. These items should never be placed in a dumpster, as they can pose a risk to the environment and public health.
Medical waste should be disposed of in specially designed, labeled, and sealed containers. As such, medical facilities must follow specific guidelines to dispose of these kinds of waste.
Flammable Materials
Flammable materials such as gasoline, propane, and paint thinner should never be thrown into a dumpster. These materials can ignite and cause a fire, putting the dumpster company employees and the community at risk. Flammable materials should be disposed of at a hazardous waste facility or collected by a specialized waste disposal company.
Tires
Tires should not be thrown into a dumpster. They are made of materials that do not decompose and can take up valuable space in landfills. Additionally, tires can trap methane gas, which can cause them to rise to the surface and pose a risk to the environment.
Tires can be recycled, and many cities have programs to collect and recycle them. Some tire retailers also offer tire recycling services.
Large Appliances
Large appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and air conditioners should not be thrown into a dumpster. These items contain refrigerants, which can harm the environment if released. They can also be difficult to dispose of due to their size and weight.
Many cities have programs to collect and recycle large appliances. You can also take advantage of some retailers’ appliance recycling services.
Construction Debris
You should not throw construction debris such as concrete, bricks, and asphalt into a dumpster. These heavy materials can damage the dumpster or make it difficult to empty it.
Also, they can take up valuable space in landfills. Check for construction debris recycling programs in your area or a specialized waste disposal company that can handle construction debris.
Conclusion
Dumpsters are an essential tool for disposing of unwanted items, but some things should not be thrown into them. Following these guidelines can protect the environment, the dumpster company employees, and the community from harm.
If you’re looking for a dumpster rental in Shelby County, AL, T3 Dumpsters is just a call away. We have a wide range of containers available, from 15 Yard to 30 Yard. Book us now!
