Actual Cost Of Poor Waste Management

Waste management is often approached from the side of external handlings, such as by the city. However, proper management skills are just as important for handling the waste that your company stores in-house. When you fail to take this aspect of your business seriously, there are a number of issues that can take shape; learn about some of them.

Compliance Concerns

Both the federal and state governments have structures in place that outline compliance guidelines for handling hazardous waste. Depending on where you live, your local county might also have their own standards. Your business is likely subject to inspections to ensure that you are compliant with these rules. If you are not handling the materials the correct way — you might fail an inspection. A failed inspection is costly because it can lead to the closing of your business, at least temporarily.

Employee Risks

When you don't handle waste the correct way, you put your most valuable asset at risk, which is your employees. Poor handling practices increase the risk of human contact with the material. However, poor handling practices also increase the risk of explosions and fires. If one of your employees is injured due to your lack of compliance, the company could face severe penalties. 

Increased Costs

Poor waste management can also increase your operating costs. The higher your operating cost, the lower your potential for a profit. First, if you fail a compliance inspection, in addition to temporarily shutting down your company, the government can also impose a fine against you. Second, if an employee is injured on the job, you face additional penalties, but you also face their medical costs and a potential lawsuit. 

Productivity Concerns

Good waste handling practices are better because they increase organization. Good organization is the path to increased productivity. When you practice poor habits, your productivity ultimately suffers. For example, if you store your waste in a high traffic area, this mistake also means that your employees that need to move through the area will face hurdles. These hurdles delay their ability to get to their desks or workstations quickly and begin work. Storing the waste in a separate, secured area, eliminates the obstacle. 

Proper hazardous waste management practices are just as essential for the interior spaces of your business as they are the outside. Partner with a waste management provider to learn more about the real cost of poor handling practices.