A skip bin, also known as a roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) dumpster, is a large container used to haul away waste materials. Skip bins are typically placed at construction sites or other locations where there is a need to remove large amounts of waste.
Certain types of waste can and cannot be placed into a skip bin. Knowing these restrictions is essential to avoid any problems with your local authorities.
When To Use Skip Bins?
Whether you are working in construction or simply doing some spring cleaning, there are many reasons why you might need to use a skip bin. Some common uses for skip bins include:
- Remodelling or construction projects
- Landscaping projects
- Yard waste removal
- Spring cleaning
Although most things can be tossed inside these big bins, some items should never go in a skip bin. When you hire a skip bin for your project, ask the company about restrictions on what can and cannot go into the container.
Types of Waste That Can Go Into Skip Bins
The following types of waste can typically be placed into skip bins:
- General household waste
- Construction waste
- Yard waste
- Garden waste
- Renovation waste
Types of Waste That Cannot Go Into Skip Bins.
Certain types of waste are not allowed to be placed into skip bins. These items include:
- Hazardous materials or chemicals
- Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
- Explosives or fireworks
- Gas cylinders
- Medical waste
- Paint tins or other containers with wet paint
- Hot ashes or coals
- Oils or tyres
If you are unsure whether something is allowed in the skip bin, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it properly.
How to Use Skip Bins Properly
To avoid any problems, it is essential to use skip bins properly. Be sure to follow these tips when using skip bins:
- Do not overfill the bin. The weight of the waste inside the bin should not exceed the maximum weight limit set by the company. This could cause damage to the bin or make it difficult to haul away.
- Do not place hazardous materials in the bin. This includes anything that may be poisonous, flammable, corrosive, or otherwise harmful.
- Do not place asbestos-containing materials in the bin. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and must be disposed of properly.
- Do not place explosives or fireworks in the bin. This could cause severe injury or damage to property.
- Do not place gas cylinders in the bin. This could cause a fire or explosion.
- Do not place medical waste in the bin. This includes anything that may be contaminated with blood or other bodily fluids.
- Do not place paint tins or other containers with wet paint in the bin. The paint could leak out and contaminate other waste inside the bin.
- Do not place hot ashes or coals in the bin. This could start a fire inside the bin.
- Do not place oils or tyres in the bin. This could cause environmental contamination.
If you follow these tips, you can be sure that your skip bin will be used properly and safely.
What Are The General Waste Classed On Your Skips?
General waste is anything that can go into your regular domestic wheelie bin. This includes food waste, paper and cardboard, garden waste, textiles and small electrical items.
Some companies may have different definitions of what is considered general waste, so it is always best to check with the company before dumping anything in the skip.
- Furnishings
- Books
- Plastics
- Wood
- Packaging
- Cans
- Glass
- Tins
- Metals
- Construction waste
- Yard waste
- Garden waste
- Renovation waste
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Electrical items
These are just some examples of what is considered general waste. Checking with the company before dumping anything in your skip is always best.
Why Do You Need To Segregate Waste?
When you hire skips, you will generally be asked to segregate your waste into different categories. This is because different types of waste need to be disposed of in different ways.
For example, hazardous materials like chemicals and asbestos-containing materials must be disposed of at specialised facilities. Similarly, medical waste must be sterilised before it can be disposed of.
By segregating your waste, you can ensure that it is disposed of correctly and in accordance with the law. Additionally, it will make it easier for the company to recycle or reuse certain types of waste.
How Do I Choose The Right Skip Bin Size?
The size of the skip bin you need will depend on the amount and type of waste you need to dispose of.
As a general rule of thumb, you should choose a skip bin at least 10% larger than the amount of waste you need to dispose of. This will allow for extra space in case you underestimate the amount of waste or if some items are too large to fit in the bin.
It is always best to overestimate the amount of waste rather than underestimate it. This is because most companies will charge you for the entire bin even if it is not full.
Skip bins comes in various style ranging from Marrel skip bins, hook lift skip bins to mini skip bins. You’ll need to decide which is the most suitable based on the amount and type of waste you need to dispose of.
Final Words
Understanding what waste can and cannot go into skips is essential for ensuring that your waste is disposed of properly. By following these tips, you can be sure that your skip bin will be used safely and effectively. Once you know what type of waste can go into your skip, you’ll need to choose the right size bin for your needs.
If you are still unsure about anything, it is always best to contact a professional skip hire company for advice. They will be able to help you choose the right skip bin for your needs and ensure that your waste is disposed of properly.