Waste reviews, policies and action plans

Outsourcing your waste management

Guide

Instead of handling all aspects of waste management within your business, there can be benefits to outsourcing certain waste operations.

Features of a reliable waste contractor

Typically, a good waste contractor will:

  • understand the complexities of waste management and be able to offer advice on any queries you have
  • offer you various options for your wastes at different rates
  • offer different collection times and frequencies to meet your needs
  • be registered with the appropriate regulator
  • have a system in place for handling waste transfer notes for controlled waste and consignment notes for hazardous wastes
  • transport wastes only to a licensed site
  • be certified to a standard such as ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 9000 for quality management
  • already work for other businesses in your area - speak to existing clients to get feedback on the quality of service

When you use a waste management contractor to transport and deal with your waste, you are still legally obliged to make sure that the waste is disposed of responsibly.

How to work with a waste contractor

Working closely with your waste contractor will help make your waste management more efficient and save you more money. Here are some simple steps you could take:

  • Discuss your waste types and quantities. The contractor may have useful contacts, tips or advice that can help save you money.
  • Separate your waste. This makes it easier to reuse and recycle wastes such as paper, plastic, metal and glass. Store the separated waste at a central point on site to make it easier for the contractor to collect.
  • Shop around to find a contractor that best meets your needs - waste removal costs can vary significantly between contractors. Some contractors offer waste minimisation services - find out what these services include.
  • Get the right sized container for your waste. You may be able to save money by hiring a smaller skip or you may benefit from hiring a larger skip that needs collecting less often.
  • Find out if baling or compaction is sensible for your types of waste. Compacting waste will reduce the number of collections needed and may make storing waste on site easier.
  • Make sure you are being charged for the weight of waste and not the number of collections.
  • Ask about market fluctuations for certain waste types and the contractor's policy when prices fall. If possible, agree a period over which the contractor will guarantee the price.