Waste Management Procedures in the Workplace 

Correct waste management is crucial for maintaining a healthy and safe workplace, not to mention its impact on the environment. But before we look at the different waste management procedures in the workplace, let’s ensure we have a full understanding of what it is exactly. 

What Is Meant by Waste Management?

To put it simply, waste management is the process of collecting, transporting, processing, recycling and disposing of waste products in a safe, efficient and environmentally-friendly way. Correct waste management is important for a number of reasons, but the primary goal is to minimise the amount of waste generated, and to ensure the waste does not harm the environment or public. 

Correct waste management practices include the proper segregation, storage, and transportation of waste materials, and the use of sustainable waste reduction and recycling programs. 

4 waste management procedures in the workplace include: 

1. Segregation of Waste

The segregation of waste is the process of separating different types of waste materials generated in the workplace into different categories, and this is the first step in the waste management process. This makes it much easier and safer to handle, transport and dispose of the waste generated. 

Categories of Waste Materials

There are 5 main categories of waste materials, including: recyclable waste, non-recyclable waste, hazardous waste, biodegradable waste & electronic waste.

• Recyclable waste – This type of waste includes recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, metals, plastics and glass. As it says in the name, recyclable waste can be sent for recycling.
  
• Non-recyclable waste – This type of waste describes materials that can’t be recycled such as sanitary waste, crisp packets or mirrors, and can be sent off for proper disposal.
  
• Hazardous waste – This is material that is potentially dangerous to human health and the environment, such as medical waste, chemicals and batteries.
  
• Biodegradable waste – Organic materials such as food waste, garden waste, and paper products that can be decomposed and biodegraded by natural processes.
  
• Electronic waste – This includes waste that is generated from electronic devices such as computers, fax machines, printers, and mobile phones.

2. Encourage Recycling & Provide the Appropriate Bins

As an employer, it is your responsibility to encourage the practice of recycling in the workplace, not just for staff but for visitors also. This can be done in a number of ways. 

First and foremost, you must provide appropriate waste bins for different types of waste. Start by completing a waste audit to identify what type of waste your workplace is producing. This will enable you to request the best and most appropriate service from your waste management supplier. These bins must be easily accessible and clearly labelled, indicating the type of waste that should be disposed of in each bin. 

It’s also a good idea to provide gentle recycling reminders around the workplace, ideally near the bins. This will remind everyone of the correct recycling practices and ensure everyone does their part for a greener working environment.

3. Handle Hazardous Waste with Extra Care

If your industry works with COSHH hazardous substances, it is essential that hazardous waste is managed and handled with extra care. By this we mean proper labelling, storage, and disposal methods should be followed to ensure that it does not pose a threat to employees or the environment alike. 

Examples of hazardous waste that require proper management include:

• Chemical waste: Pesticides, solvents, and other chemicals used in industrial processes, agriculture, and household wastes can be incredibly hazardous to human health and the environment.
  
• Medical waste: Medical waste such as infectious waste and pharmaceuticals, can pose a risk to public health if not managed correctly.
  
• Electronic waste: Electronic waste such as computers and televisions can contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium.
  
• Nuclear waste: Waste generated by nuclear power plants, research facilities, and medical facilities must be managed and disposed of properly to prevent harm.

4. Educate Employees

It is also your responsibility as an employer to educate your employees and workers about the importance of correct waste management, the types of waste generated in your specific workplace, and how they can dispose of waste properly, i.e. recycling. 

It’s also worth considering a ‘rewards’ system, whereby staff are rewarded for their recycling efforts. This can be something as simple as ‘The best recycler of the week’ award or a prize for the most committed employee, for example a free coffee. This will not only encourage your staff to recycle more, but it will also make them feel like valued members of the team. Another win, win!!

There you have it! Learn more about the importance of correct waste management for your workplace here. And for more tips from our experts, check out our blog page or get in touch with any questions you may have about safety tips for your workplace.

Written by Kate for Morsafe Supplies.