Trade waste: what you need to know
If you run a business, you will generate trade waste. It’s important to understand what trade waste is and how to dispose of it properly. Here are some key things you need to know about trade waste:
What is Trade Waste?
Trade waste is any waste generated by a business, trade or commercial activity. This can include packaging, food waste, hazardous waste and any other waste that is not considered household waste. As a business, you are responsible for managing your trade waste in a safe and responsible manner.
Please keep in mind: If you’re operating a business from your home, any waste generated in connection with the business is still considered trade waste, and therefore, it cannot be disposed of in your regular domestic refuse bin.
As part of your duty of care in relation to the waste produced by your business, you will need to:
- Reduce waste to a minimum by taking all reasonable steps to prevent, reuse, recycle, or recover waste (in that order).
- Safely and securely sort and store waste.
- Complete a waste transfer note for every load of non-hazardous waste that leaves your premises.
- Ensure that your waste carrier is registered to dispose of waste.
- Not allow the waste carrier to dispose of your waste illegally, and report them if they do.
- It’s important to note that if you’re handling hazardous waste, you will have additional responsibilities.
How Do I Dispose of Trade Waste?
There are a few ways to dispose of trade waste, depending on the type and quantity of waste you produce. Some options include:
- Recycling: Many types of trade waste, such as cardboard and plastics, can be recycled. You can arrange for a recycling service to collect your waste or take it to a recycling facility yourself.
- Disposal: Some types of trade waste, such as hazardous waste, require specialist disposal. You should never dispose of hazardous waste in general waste bins.
- Composting: Food waste can be composted, either on-site or by using a collection service.
Can I Put My Trade Waste in a General Bin?
No, you should not put trade waste in a general waste bin. General waste bins are for household waste only. If you put trade waste in a general waste bin, you may be subject to fines and legal action. Instead, you should arrange for a commercial waste collection service.
What is ‘Duty Of Care’ Regarding Trade Waste?
Duty of Care is a legal obligation for businesses to ensure that their waste is managed in a safe and responsible way. This means that you must take all reasonable steps to ensure that your waste is stored, transported, and disposed of safely and legally. You must also keep records of your waste management activities.
Which Commercial Bins are Right for My Business?
The type of commercial bin you need will depend on the type and quantity of waste you produce. Here are some common types of commercial bins:
- General waste bins: for non-recyclable waste.
- Recycling bins: for materials that can be recycled, such as cardboard, paper, and plastics.
- Food waste bins: for food waste that can be composted.
- Hazardous waste bins: for hazardous waste such as chemicals and medical waste.
- Confidential waste bins: for sensitive documents that need to be securely destroyed.
In conclusion, it’s essential for businesses to manage their trade waste responsibly to avoid potential fines and legal action. By following these guidelines and utilising the right commercial bins, you can ensure that your waste is disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
We at Affordable waste management are ready to take care of your waste. Our team of professionals is prepared to offer you a wide range of waste management services tailored to your individual needs and budget. We will ensure the safe and responsible disposal of your business waste, which will help you save money and increase the environmental efficiency of your company. Contact us today and start caring for the environment with us.