You’ve booked your skip hire in Birmingham, ready to tackle that long-overdue clear-out. But before you get stuck into decluttering, take a moment to consider the safety and security of your skip. Here at Centro Waste, we want to ensure your skip-hire experience is smooth and hassle-free. That includes keeping your skip safe from unwanted additions and ensuring it doesn’t pose a risk to yourself or others.
Here are our top tips for keeping your skip hire safe and secure in Birmingham:
Location, Location, Location
- Private Property: The safest and most convenient location for your skip is usually on your own driveway or private property. This allows you complete control over access and reduces the risk of fly-tipping (illegal dumping of waste).
- Public Highway: If space is limited on your property, you might need a skip permit to place the skip on a public road. Birmingham City Council outlines the process for obtaining a skip permit on their website. Remember, skips on public roads require additional safety measures like hazard lights and cones, especially at night.
- Choosing the Right Spot: Wherever you place your skip, ensure it’s on a firm, level surface. This prevents the skip from tipping over and creating a safety hazard. Avoid placing the skip under overhead wires or overhanging branches. On public roads, ensure it doesn’t obstruct pedestrian walkways or emergency vehicle access.
Securing Your Skip
- Lock it Up (if applicable): Some skip hire companies, like Centro Waste, offer lockable skips for an additional fee. This deters fly-tipping and provides peace of mind, especially if the skip is located on a public road overnight.
- Signage is Key: Clearly label your skip with signage indicating it’s for your use only. You can use a simple handwritten note or a pre-made sign stating “This skip is in use by [Your Name]”. This discourages others from adding their own waste.
- Keep an Eye Out: If possible, keep an eye on your skip, especially if it’s located on a public road. Regularly check its contents and remove any unwanted additions promptly.
Loading Your Skip Safely
- Weight Restrictions: Don’t overload your skip! Skip hire companies have weight limits for each skip size. Exceeding this limit can be dangerous during collection and may incur additional charges. Check your skip hire agreement for the specific weight limit for your chosen skip size.
- Distribute the Load Evenly: For stability, distribute the weight of the waste evenly throughout the skip. Place heavier items like bricks or concrete at the bottom and lighter materials like wood or garden waste on top.
- Sharp or Hazardous Materials: Never dispose of hazardous waste in your skip hire. This includes items like asbestos, paint tins, or electrical equipment. These materials require special disposal procedures. Contact your local council for guidance on disposing of hazardous waste safely.
Keeping Others Safe
- Mind the Gap: Be mindful of the gap between the skip and the ground, especially for children and pets. This gap can be a tripping hazard. Consider placing a warning sign or using caution tape around the skip perimeter.
- Sharp Edges: Be aware of sharp edges on the skip itself and any metal objects you’re throwing away. Wear sturdy gloves when handling these items to avoid cuts.
- Keep it Lit: If your skip is located on a public road at night, ensure it’s well-lit with reflective hazard lights or cones. This improves visibility for pedestrians and motorists.
Working with Your Skip Hire Company
- Clear Communication: Before your skip arrives, discuss your specific needs with your skip hire company. This includes the skip size, placement options, and any permits required for public road placement.
- Clearance Considerations: Be aware of the skip hire period. If you require additional time, contact your skip hire company beforehand to discuss extension options and any additional fees.
- Reporting Issues: If you notice any damage to the skip upon delivery, or if someone has fly-tipped in your skip, report it immediately to your skip hire company.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your skip hire experience in Birmingham is safe, secure, and stress-free. Remember, a little planning goes a long way!
Additional Tips
- Consider CCTV: If your skip is located on a public road in a high-risk area for fly-tipping, you might consider installing temporary CCTV to deter illegal dumping.
- Sharing the Skip: If you have a large project and a friend or neighbour is also doing a clear-out, consider sharing
