Waste reviews, policies and action plans

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.