Safe Bin Placement on Site

Bins are an essential part of your business operations, but it’s important to remember they are also industrial equipment. They are heavy, wheeled containers that can cause injuries or create hazards if not positioned and handled safely.

Following proper safety procedures for bin placement helps protect staff, waste collectors, and site visitors.

Why Bin Placement Matters

Bins can weigh hundreds of kilograms when full, making them difficult and dangerous to move incorrectly.
Poorly placed bins can create risks such as crush injuries, sprains, slips, or falls.
Incorrect placement can also delay or prevent collection, causing service issues.

Risk Assessment Before Delivery

All services undergo a risk inspection and site assessment before bins are delivered.

It is extremely important that bins are positioned exactly where agreed during this inspection.
This ensures that trucks can safely access the bins at every collection.
If conditions change after delivery (e.g. construction, new obstructions), please notify Waster so the risk assessment can be reviewed.

Front Lift Bin Limitations

Front lift bins cannot be safely serviced in areas where access is too tight, narrow, or obstructed.
If a site is very busy with constant pedestrian traffic, this may also make front lift bin servicing unsafe.
In such cases, Waster will recommend an alternative bin type or location.

Placement Guidelines for Commercial Sites

Proper Placement

Place bins on a flat, stable surface.
Ensure 30cm space between bins so collection equipment can safely grab each one.
Provide at least 4–5 metres of overhead clearance (no power lines, low awnings, or overhanging branches).

Avoid Hazards

Do not place bins where they block accessways, gates, or emergency exits.
Keep bins clear of parked vehicles, walls, and tight corners so trucks can manoeuvre safely.
Ensure bins are accessible during agreed service times — some councils enforce curfew restrictions on truck operating hours.

Bin Contents

Do not overfill bins — lids must be able to close completely.
Never place prohibited items inside bins, such as hot coals, batteries, sharps, chemicals, or liquids.
Avoid overloading bins — this increases the risk of strain and injury when moved.

Moving Bins Safely

Bins are heavy equipment and must be moved with care:

❌ Do not attempt to move overly heavy bins. If a bin is too heavy, contact Waster to discuss additional or more frequent collections.
✅ If bins must be repositioned, pushing is generally safer than pulling, as it reduces strain on the back and shoulders.
❌ Avoid moving bins on uneven, sloped, or rough surfaces, where they can tip or roll uncontrollably.
✅ Always use the wheel locks provided to secure bins in their correct position once placed.

Safety Around Trucks

For anyone working around collection areas, remember that waste collection trucks are large industrial machines:

Stay clear of trucks when they are lifting or servicing bins.
Do not obstruct access — keep collection areas free of vehicles and equipment.
Allow space — ensure truck operators can manoeuvre safely without risk to staff or visitors.

Key Safety Procedures for Staff

When handling bins on-site:

Wear hand and foot protection when moving bins.
Avoid awkward postures, twisting, or excessive force.
Never move multiple bins at once.
Never climb inside or on top of bins.

Final Word

Bins may look simple, but they are industrial machinery when full and handled by trucks. Following safe placement and handling procedures protects everyone involved.

Risk inspections ensure bins are positioned safely from the start.
Front lift bins require wide, clear access without heavy pedestrian activity.
Wheel locks and safe handling reduce risks of uncontrolled movement.
Never move overly heavy bins — and if you must move a bin, always push rather than pull.