Dumpster maintenance
Covered and contained dumpsters keep rain out.
Dumpsters can be a major source of pollution if not maintained properly. Rainwater becomes polluted storm runoff when it mixes with contaminants in dumpsters and reaches storm drains.
Protect our streams and comply with regulations by following simple practices and maintenance tips.
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Cover
Locate dumpsters and compactors under cover to keep rain out.
Close
Bad: Rainwater can get inside to erode this dumpster and carry litter to the storm drain.
Train employees to close dumpster lids after every use.
Fix broken or damaged lids.
Secure lids to prevent wind blowing them open, and wildlife foraging.
Don't overfill dumpsters and make sure lids can close.
Don't prop lids open.
Clean
Good: Sweep up and bag litter and sources of pollution.
DO NOT WASH. Wash water can carry pollutants to the storm drains, which lead directly to streams.
Use a broom to sweep litter into trash receptacles.
Keep dumpsters away from storm drains.
Inspect dumpsters regularly to ensure they don't leak.
Post signs to remind employees and residents of proper use.
Keep liquid waste out.
Properly dispose of hazardous materials (paint, pesticides, solvents etc.) so they don't pile up.
Contain
Bad: This dumpster is leaking pollution and has no lid.
Fix dumpster leaks and use a spill kit to clean spills immediately. Contact Waste Connections if for information on replacing a leaky dumpster. 360.892.5370 or email customerservice2010@wcnx.org
Train employees to prevent spills and litter around dumpsters.
Be a Lid Champion!
Every business needs someone to take the lead on keeping dumpsters closed. That’s where the Lid Champion comes in.
What is a Lid Champion?
A Lid Champion is the go-to person who helps make sure dumpster lids are closed, the area stays clean, and teammates acknowledge why this is so important.
What a Lid Champion does?
- Keeps lid-closing top of mind by giving coworkers a friendly reminder when needed.
- Take a quick look at the end of a shift to be sure lids are closed.
- Helps the dumpster area stay neat and ready for collection day.
- Speaks up if something makes closing the lid harder (like a heavy lid or blocked access) so it can be fixed.
Why It Matters
Closing dumpster lids is a simple step that keeps your business cleaner, cuts down on odors, and helps prevent pests while also protecting local waterways.
When dumpster lids are left open, rainwater mixes with trash to create polluted runoff, sometimes called “dumpster juice.” When dumpsters are emptied, that polluted water can spill onto your property, attracting pests, causing odors and flowing into storm drains that lead to our streams and rivers.
Closing the Lid Every Time Helps:
- Reduce odors
- Deter pests
- Keep dumpster areas cleaner
- Protect water quality in our community
- Makes it easier for your hauler to pick up
Guide for Small Quantity Generators
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