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When you think of disposing the trash on a worksite, you might picture a dumpster, into which workers can easily throw waste and walk away. Unlike a dumpster, a compactor has moving parts, which use considerable force to crush objects and limit the space they will take up in landfills. Therefore, it’s important to operate the machinery with care. If you’re about to use a compactor on your job site, abide by the following do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Shut it down when you’re done.

Just like an oven or a stovetop, a compactor should be shut down when you’re finished using it. According to OSHA guidelines, the keys should be removed, and the doors need to be closed. If an employee approaches the machine without knowing it’s powered on, they could suffer an injury when adding trash.

Train all employees who may need to operate the compactor.

compactor When it comes to trash duty for your business, you may have assigned the task to whoever happens to have a free hand. However, with a compactor, it’s important that you choose specific employees to take charge. You will need to train these workers in safe practices. Allowing just anyone to use the compactor could increase the risk of mechanical issues or injuries.

Don’t:

Place a hand in the compactor.

When the compactor is on, it’s ready to start compressing trash at any time. If something gets jammed in the opening, the compactor may continue its pressing motion as soon as the object is removed. Therefore, never stick your arm, hand, or full body into the machine to pull something out. Use a hand tool from your compactor rental company to remove items that may fall in. 

Leave a mess around the machine. 

Only take the trash to your compactor when it’s ready to receive the material. Avoid stacking items by the machine or leaving them around it. Obstacles increase the risk of falls around the compactor, which can result in employee injuries. The trash can also cause fires and pest infestations.

 

If you need a compactor for your next project, Consolidated Waste Services will be happy to provide you with the equipment you need and educate you on the safety guidelines. This Asheville, NC, company has over 50 years of combined experience providing waste management solutions. Whether you’re working on a home remodel or a commercial construction project, call them at (828) 645-0660 to rent the materials you require. Visit the website to learn more about their services. 

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