Dumpster rentals offer homeowners a way to handle large amounts of waste that are too big to put out on the curb, and they are a major asset for keeping debris and other hazards off of the worksite. As you get ready to set up your dumpster rental, keep these safety tips in mind to get the most out of your trash removal service.

1. Choose the Right Size Dumpster

As a general rule, dumpsters should never be filled past the top of the wall because this can cause issues during the pickup process. For instance, trash that is piled too high makes it difficult to put a tarp or lid over it and can cause debris to fly out of it when it is on the road.

Dumpsters also come with weight limits that should be followed. To avoid the temptation to stuff the dumpster as high as you can, be sure to select one that is the correct size for your type of job.

Typically, a 10- to 15-foot dumpster is suitable for a small yard or one-room cleanup. However, you may need a larger dumpster for major demolitions or multi-room renovations. When you call to schedule your dumpster rental, provide information about your project to make sure that you get the right size.

2. Place It in a Safe Location

The ideal location for a dumpster should be near enough to the work site to increase accessibility yet far enough away that safety isn't compromised. In a residential area, dumpsters are commonly placed in the driveway or on the side of the house.

Once you have selected your preferred location, make sure that it has a flat surface that can support the weight of the dumpster when it is full. Then, check to ensure that there is enough space to safely deliver and pick up the dumpster from the location.

3. Keep the Work Area Clear

During certain types of work projects such as roofing jobs, it is common for people to toss debris from above into the container. Always communicate with the other people helping to ensure that falling debris does not land on someone walking beneath the work area.

You should also arrange for someone to periodically walk around the dumpster to make sure that no debris accumulates on the ground where people walk. This helps to reduce fall hazards on your work site.

4. Make Other Plans for Prohibited Items

Dumpsters are designed to handle many types of trash that may range from lawn debris to concrete and metal. However, there may be certain items that are prohibited due to the hazards they pose to people, property and the environment.

Avoid placing items such as paint, glue and solvents in the dumpster since these can damage the container and harm the environment. You may also need to check your local ordinances to find out what is not allowed at the dumping site. For instance, rubber tires or motor oil may need to be disposed of using the proper protocols.

5. Talk to Children about Dumpster Safety

Children at your home and in your neighborhood may be curious about the dumpster. Talk to them about the dangers of entering the dumpster for any reason since things such as nails in a board could cause them harm. Then, make sure they know to tell an adult if they see other kids playing near the dumpster area.

When you need to rent a dumpster, Total Trash Removal Services has a variety of sizes to fit any job. Give us a call today to learn more about how to increase safety at your work site with proper trash removal services.