Sanitary bins are receptacles used to store waste until it can be collected and disposed of. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all serve the same basic function. Sanitary waste bins are an important part of any public or private facility, as they help keep the area clean and free of debris. It is a common misconception that sanitary bins are emptied by the premises staff; however, it is more common that businesses have a hygiene services team that comes and services their washrooms regularly.
What is sanitary waste?
Sanitary waste is an umbrella term for liquid or solid waste originating solely from humans and human activities. This includes feminine hygiene products, which are used to absorb menstrual flow. Sanitary waste can be in the form of a liquid or a solid, and it is often disposed of in sanitary bins. These bins are usually emptied by sanitation engineers, who are responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of all sanitary facilities in the building.
What are some common examples of sanitary waste?
Some common examples of sanitary waste include:
-Liquid waste from sinks, toilets, and showers
-Feminine hygiene products & Bodily fluids such as pads and tampons
-Cotton balls and swabs
-Tissues and paper towels
-Dental floss
What are the legislations surrounding sanitary bins?
The laws surrounding sanitary bins vary from council to council, for example, Sanitary bin services Manchester may differ from Sanitary bin services Liverpool. In some places, businesses must provide sanitary bins for their employees. In others, it is up to the individual business owner to decide their workplace health safety, and welfare regulations.
There are a few legal requirements to consider in the UK when implementing sanitary bins in the workplace. The Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulations 1992 state that every business must provide suitable sanitary disposal units in each female washroom.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, businesses have the duty of care to correctly and safely manage waste on their premises up to the point of final disposal. You’re also held responsible for reviewing contracts with sanitary bin providers.
The Water Industries Act 1991 also states any item that can cause blockage shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet, which is often the case when no sanitary bins are provided.
Sanitary bin legislation is constantly evolving as lawmakers try to find the best way to keep our streets clean. Both business owners and consumers need to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations so they can make informed decisions about waste disposal.
Why do some sanitary bins have a notice saying “Cleaners – do not empty”?
Usually, this refers to the fact that a third-party service is responsible for waste collection. A notice is placed on the bin because there is a risk of cross-contamination if non-sanitary personnel were to handle the sanitary waste. Washroom service providers are licensed to remove waste whereas cleaners aren’t. Washroom service providers have to have regular Hepatitis B and other inoculations to combat working with blood borne products.