Whether you’re a homeowner completing spring cleaning or a contractor managing your construction trash, roll-off containers provide a convenient solution to waste management. When using one, it’s important to take care and follow recommended guidelines. Improper operation can lead to serious accidents. With C & H Disposal Service, Inc., find out how to stay safe and avoid injury while using one of our rental roll-off containers.
Choose the Right Size Container
Every customer’s waste disposal needs are different. Roll-off containers are available in a variety of volumes to accommodate different weights and quantities. At C & H Disposal Service, Inc., we offer the following sizes for residential and commercial use:
- 12 cubic yards
- 20 cubic yards
- 30 cubic yards
- 40 cubic yards
Before renting a roll-off container, consider your needs carefully to make sure you select the right size. A container that’s too small will easily become overloaded and top-heavy, making it prone to tipping. Even if nobody is near the container to be injured when it falls, the spill may scatter dangerous materials and become a hazard afterward.
When in doubt about the size you need, we recommend renting a larger unit than you might need. A unit that’s too large might be inconvenient, but a too-small unit can become dangerous. If you discover that your rented container is too small after all, never overload it.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Just as you shouldn’t overload a roll-off container, you should also distribute weight as evenly as possible. Uneven weight may create a tipping hazard. This is especially important when you are loading heavy materials, such as furniture or construction rubbish, that may destabilize the container.
When loading a roll-off container, place the heaviest items toward the bottom and front. Lighter items should go toward the back. This will help counterbalance the container’s existing weight distribution. Items should never be stacked above the container’s top edge.
Avoid Restricted Items
Certain items should be avoided entirely when loading a roll-off container. These items are dangerous due to flammability, toxic chemicals, or electrical hazards. Your disposal service will provide a list of restricted materials to avoid. C & H Disposal Service, Inc. prohibits the following:
- Flammable materials
- Cans of paint or paint thinner
- Propane tanks or other fuel
- Batteries
- Oily rags
- Televisions and other electronics
- Fluorescent tubes
- Industrial waste
- Medical or biological waste
- Pesticides and herbicides
Some items also require special precautions before they can be disposed of safely. These are to protect both you and the crew responsible for handling your waste after it’s been transported away. C & H Disposal Service, Inc. requires the following precautions:
- Appliances must be placed at the back of the container and may incur an additional fee.
- Asbestos must be separately bagged and marked.
- The quantity of tires cannot exceed 10 and must be clearly visible on top of the other waste.
When renting a roll-off container, ask your disposal company about their material requirements and recommendations. They can provide guidelines for loading a container safely.
Place the Container in a Safe Location
Even a correctly sized, properly loaded container can become a tipping hazard if it’s placed in an unsafe location. Before you place anything in a roll-off container, make sure it rests securely. Containers should rest on a flat, level surface. You may wish to even out your surface by creating a particle board platform for your container. This will further reduce the risk of tipping if the ground is bumpy or soft.
In addition, containers should be placed away from other hazards and obstacles. This includes trees, structures, and overhead wires that may interfere with container retrieval. The container should also be kept out of roads and sidewalks where it might block vehicles or pedestrians.
Wear Safety Gear
Finally, always make sure you wear personal protection equipment (PPE) when operating a roll-off container. Heavy equipment still carries a risk of injury even when used with care. PPE provides an extra layer of defense. At C & H Disposal Service. Inc., we recommend wearing the following:
- Heavy gloves
- Boots with steel toes
- Safety glasses
- Hard hats
You should also wear any PPE equipment necessary for working with the materials you are loading, or while working at your location – for example, a respiration mask or high-visibility vest. Remember that it’s always safer to be overprepared.
Rent Roll-Off Containers with C & H Disposal Service, Inc.
If you need a roll-off container or front loader for your next project, get in touch with C & H Disposal Service, Inc. We serve South New Jersey with container rentals and waste disposal services. We have over 45 years of experience in the industry and a reputation for excellent service. You can contact us or visit us on location at 47 Griers Lane, Elmer, NJ 08318.
