The Duty of Care For Business Waste
Businesses have a legal duty to ensure they are responsible for their commercial waste, including properly disposing of it. Failure to comply with this duty can lead to fines or even prosecution. The Duty of Care requires businesses to record waste transfers and take the necessary steps to dispose of waste properly. Business waste crime is rising, costing the government over 1 billion annually and is now requiring additional resources and attention to prevent it.
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Duty of Care For Business Waste: Duties For Businesses
There are many responsibilities associated with the disposal of business waste. If improperly managed, waste can end up in landfill sites or fly-tip, causing water and air pollution. As a result, businesses must follow the rules for waste disposal to avoid any negative consequences. Listed below are some of the primary responsibilities associated with business waste disposal. Read on to learn more about your obligations.
To keep yourself and the environment safe, follow these simple tips:
- Waste arising from a business can include industrial, commercial, and office waste.
- Your business must arrange for its disposal and proper recycling.
- Many types of waste can be generated, including paper, cardboard, glass, drinking cups, wood, batteries, scrap metal, and even office furniture.
- Proper waste management is essential for running a business regardless of size or type.
Below are some of the essential tips for managing your waste correctly.
The UK has strict rules regarding how waste is disposed of. If you are not complying with these rules, you can face a massive fine. The Environment Protection Act of 1999 governs waste disposal, and repeat offenders may face imprisonment of up to five years. Businesses may use contractors to handle this task or manage their waste disposal. As a result, you must understand the laws regarding business waste disposal.
In addition to the responsibilities of sustainable waste management, businesses are expected to participate in the environmental protection of the planet.
- You can help the environment and protect human health by choosing compostable and recyclable materials.
- Choosing the right products and services can also improve your customer experience by demonstrating your commitment to environmental care.
- Waste minimisation is a great way to show it if you want to ensure your reputation and future business.
- Duties of businesses in demonstrating responsibility It’s not enough for businesses to comply with environmental laws and regulations.
They must also act responsibly to protect the environment, improve their bottom line and foster the long-term success of their business. The guide outlines business waste management and environmental responsibility basics, including the need to separate paper, plastic and metals and how to dispose of food waste. This guide also explains where to get more information and help on environmental issues.
Their employees play a critical role for businesses in managing their commercial waste. Offering appropriate training can ensure employees understand the changes and comply with instructions. Motivated staff to work in such an environmentally-conscious company may positively affect the environment. In addition, it could be suitable for your talent retention efforts, as many people want to work for companies responsible for their community and the environment.
Colour coded bins |
Yellow |
Red |
Orange |
Purple |
White |
Blue |
Yellow & Black |
Black |
Infectious waste to be disposed of immediately |
Anatomical waste (hazardous and non-hazardous) |
Infectious waste which is sent for treatment |
Cytostatic and cytotoxic medicinal products such as sharps |
Dental waste |
Medicinal waste such as part empty containers,out of date medicine etc |
Non-infectious/hazardous hygiene waste |
|
Duty of Care For Business Waste: Keeping Records
Businesses must comply with the Duty of Care when disposing of commercial waste produced by commercial enterprises. This duty covers everything from scrap computers and electrical equipment to furniture, food packaging, and flammable waste.
Even stay-at-home businesses are subject to this duty, and failure to comply with these requirements can have disastrous consequences.
The Duty of Care applies to all businesses, regardless of industry or location. This includes waste generated inside a business but excludes clinical and hazardous waste. Businesses must keep records for at least two years to comply with the law. By failing to keep such records, businesses will be found to breach the “Duty of Care” and could be fined. Businesses must also keep records for evidence purposes.
Duty of Care For Business Waste – Learn more about UK business waste statistics here
Other useful links from our Commercial Waste Centre
Is a Waste Service For Small Businesses Right For Your Business?
A Guide to Commercial Food Waste Disposal in the UK
What Products Are Made From Recycled Waste Material?
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