A key problem in today’s warehouses and production areas is efficient waste management. Often, we see warehouses and production units in large spaces with several floors, and in some cases even several buildings. Therefore, handling and transporting waste ends up being a real challenge. Below, we present 5 practical tips for efficient waste management for Production or Warehouse Managers. These aim not only to improve waste management, but also to increase productivity and generate revenue through recycling.
Tip #1: Start planning early
Starting the design of a warehouse, a logistics center or a production unit is not a simple matter. It is necessary to include in the study, and the design of waste management. In other words, not foreseeing waste management needs in the initial design can lead to costly problems. It can also lead to ineffective solutions or even a dangerous working environment.
It is common for an engineer to design the layout of a warehouse or factory without taking waste management into account. This usually ends up having very costly consequences.
Tip #2: Analyze the current situation
First, look at the existing way of managing waste and compare it to the ideal solution.
It is very useful to do an analysis to see how much the current situation is burdening you. In addition, you need to analyze how soon a better solution could pay off. At this point, it is a good idea to include not only the cost of the mechanical equipment. Similarly, labor costs, transportation costs and information systems are equally important.
We were spending the equivalent of 1-2 full-time jobs transporting waste to the bins for each type of waste. This prompted us to assess the situation. By listening to our employees and asking experts, we came up with a solution that drastically reduced the man-hours required to manage the warehouse’s waste .
See here how recycling equipment can help you organize and make your business’s workplace more productive and safe.
Tip #3: Sort your waste
Sorting waste directly at source is by far the most economical and efficient way to manage it. More specifically, separating waste by quality directly at the point of production saves manpower, increases the value of the waste and makes the working environment safer. At the same time, minimizing the environmental footprint of the work on the environment shows us how important this step is.
“If it is difficult to sort waste in your facility, you are likely to miss out on both cost savings and a new source of revenue. Separated material has lower management costs, while selling clean recyclable material will yield a better return.”
Tip #4: Centralized or decentralized? Waste management is directly related to space and distance.
The goal of a new waste management solution is to maximize savings in money, time and space. It is important to consider how far the waste needs to be transported. If the route is long or complicated, it is a good idea to place the equipment at intermediate points. Storing waste without the need for multiple internal transports results in lower costs.
“We moved from a centralized to a decentralized waste management solution, tailored to maximizing the use of balers and minimizing waste collection. It saves us time and money.”
Tip #5: Waste management is an ongoing process
Your job doesn’t end once you install compactor equipment or collection bins. It’s important not to get complacent. You should take care of your equipment and have it serviced at least once a year to keep it functional and safe. The evolution and changing conditions of workplaces over time lead to a corresponding adjustment and possibly an upgrade of the waste management system.
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