When you need to clean up around your home, business or construction site, a dumpster is a convenient way to remove a lot of waste at once. Most often dumpster rental services will provide a list of items that you should never put into a dumpster. It may seem like a convenient way to get rid of old paint cans, however certain material should require special handling. Today, Mickey’s Carting would like to cover what should never go into a dumpster, to avoid accidents, additional disposal fees, and potential environmental violations.
What Are Hazardous Materials?
What is considered a hazardous material? Hazardous materials are substances that are toxic, flammable, highly corrosive and can react negatively to certain exposures. It is important that hazardous material is disposed of and handled properly, which doesn’t included putting them in a dumpster. Some of the common hazardous material you should never put into a dumpster are:
• Paints
• Solvents and Chemical Cleaners
• Pesticides and Herbicides
• Gasoline
• Motor Oil and Automotive Fluids
• Propane Tanks
• Batteries
• Certain Electronics
Because these materials can react with other waste, they should never be placed in a residential or commercial dumpster.
Hazardous Materials Can Cause Fires
Some hazardous waste is extremely flammable such as gasoline, solvents, oils, and other chemicals. They can easily combust when exposed to heat, sparks and contact with other materials. A fire can occur inside the dumpster and quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Keeping flammable material out of the dumpsters is an important part of safe waste management.
Hazardous Waste Can Damage Equipment
Certain chemicals exposed to other materials can cause damage to the dumpsters, compactor and the collection trucks. For example, a corrosive substance spills on a metal surface or other equipment and eats it away. Following the dumpster rules ensure the prevention of damage to the rental companies’ dumpsters.
Hazardous Materials Can Contaminate the Environment
Hazardous substances can leak into soil, groundwater, or waterways if they are not handled correctly. Chemicals, oils, pesticides, and other dangerous substances may cause long-term environmental damage. This is why, proper disposal through an approved facility helps ensure these materials are treated, recycled, or destroyed according to applicable requirements.
What Should You Do with Hazardous Materials
If your cleanup project produces hazardous waste, don’t put it in your dumpster. Instead, identify the material and contact an appropriate local disposal facility or hazardous waste program for instructions. Some materials may be accepted through household hazardous waste collection programs, while others may require specialized handling by a waste disposal provider.
Don’t Assume Small Amounts Are Safe
A common mistake is assuming that a small amount of hazardous material is harmless. Even any amount of certain chemicals, fuels, or other dangerous substances can create a serious risk when mixed with other waste. When it comes to hazardous materials, the safest approach is simple: if you’re not sure, don’t put it in the dumpster.
Waste Management & More in Amagansett, Aquebogue, Baiting Hollow, Calverton, Cutchogue, East Hampton, East Hampton North, Greenport, Jamesport, Laurel, Mattituck, Montauk, Nassau Point, Northville, Northwest Harbor & Riverhead in East End of Long Island, New York
Dumpster rentals are an efficient solution for managing everyday household waste, renovation debris, construction materials, and large cleanouts. However, dumpsters are not designed to handle hazardous materials. Make sure to take your hazardous waste to the proper waste disposal provider and they will ensure it is safely disposed of. For dumpster rentals and more, contact Mickey’s Carting today.
