A proper waste management and recycling program starts with selecting the right receptacle for the job. The following should be considered:

1. Evaluate traffic, capacity and servicing. How many people work in or visit the facility on a daily basis? How much waste are they depositing? How much trash do the containers hold? And how often are the receptacles checked and emptied?

2. Look at the location of these receptacles. Where will they be placed? Are these areas protected from outdoor elements? What whether conditions might receptacles be subjected to?

3. Consider aesthetics. Do the aesthetics of the surroundings dictate a higher-end decorative solution or will a more utilitarian option suffice?

4. Every facility must consider cost. What is available in the budget for these bins?

5. Look at safety and ergonomics. Does the receptacle need to meet ergonomic requirements for emptying? If so, one with front- or side-opening doors may be appropriate.

6. And finally, look at waste stream management. How complex is the company’s waste stream? How many refuse streams does it manage? Can receptacles be set up to allow for the collection of multiple waste streams such as trash and various recyclables?


posted on 4/18/2011