Disposal of waste in dealerships
Waste can be split into the following categories:
- Hazardous Waste (eg oil, oil filters, batteries, etc)
- Recyclables (eg paper, cardboard, plastics)
- Metals
- General waste
In most cases you will have to pay for the removal of waste. Always try to minimise the amount of waste you produce, eg talk to suppliers about reducing packaging. Shop around for the best deal on waste removal.
In some cases you can get paid for waste materials, notably for metals. Speak to a waste contractor and they should be able to offer you advice and support. The contractor may provide a container to store metal in for collection.
Try to separate your waste as much as possible to ensure it is stored and disposed of as effectively as possible.
Avoid using open storage bins or skips. Not only do they discourage separation, but they can also be used by non-garage staff and filled with rainwater (if kept outside) – which would mean less space for waste, but also add weight and mess which may add to the cost of collection.
Hazardous waste
- Waste oil
- Oil filters
- Oily rags
- Oil fines (eg saw dust used to soak up oil spills)
- Mixed fuels (eg petrol, diesel, etc)
- Brake fluid
- Anti-freeze
- Car batteries and other smaller batteries
- Tyres
- Waste electrical and electronic equipment
- Unused air bags
- Oil brake pads
- Fluorescent lights
- Aerosols
- Mobile air conditioning units
Ensure hazardous waste is correctly stored. Avoid leaks and spills and take appropriate action if accidents do happen.
Ensure hazardous waste is collected by licensed contractor, and keep appropriate records of contractors licence and permit numbers and amount of waste collected.
Ensure hazardous waste is not put in with general waste.
Just as with energy and water, the seven step action plan is directly relevant to disposing of waste properly. Step 1 – appoint an appropriate person to drive waste management, then follow the other steps, develop a waste disposal policy, monitor waste type and volume, implement waste minimisation, improved storage, separation and disposal cost saving measures and engage with staff to raise awareness, get feedback and encourage action on better waste management.
