Construction Waste

Construction Waste Management: Handling Different Types of Waste

Construction sites generate a lot of waste that often goes unnoticed. A majority of the waste may be recycled. Those types of waste that are not recyclable require to be disposed of appropriately to prevent polluting the environment. There are waste materials such as asbestos that pose a direct threat to not only the environment but to humans as well. Inhaling asbestos particles has been found to result in respiratory complications.

Paper, Glass, and Plastic waste

Packaging materials are often made of paper, plastic, and sometimes glass. They are materials that are easily recyclable. There are businesses that offer rental dumpsters in Salt Lake City. The aim is to store such waste separately from the rest of the waste. A waste management company may then come and empty the dumpsters. It may be done based on a predetermined schedule such as on a certain day of every week or whenever the dumpsters are full. When vetting the potential waste management companies, give preference to those who appreciate the essence of recycling waste as opposed to taking it to a landfill. Waste recycling is the most efficient form of dealing with waste as it often converts all the waste into reusable materials. That goes a long way in reducing the pressure on the available landfills.

Waste Paints and Varnishes

Paints, varnishes, and sealants are made of chemicals which when ingested could result in long-term effects. In fact, uncovered paints can easily cause air pollution. The side effects include eye irritations, respiratory irritations, and dizziness. It is crucial to also not discard the paints and varnishes to the soil. This has been known to result in soil pollution and water pollution in the case of rain. Varnishes easily dissolve mineral salts in the soil, limiting their access to the plants. They also contain other chemicals that may kill organisms that live in the soil. As such, waste paints and varnishes may need to be stored separately for proper disposal.

Demolition Waste

Demolished building surrounded with rubble and scrap

Demolition waste often consists of concrete, damaged slabs, steel fittings, and sheets. This types of waste are often treated in its bulk form and taken to a nearby landfill for disposal. This should be avoided, though. Emphasis is placed on the need to separate the waste into its constituent components, allowing for proper disposal. Additionally, it allows for the identification of any waste materials such as those made of steel to be recycled. Any hazardous waste may also be separated from the rest of the materials to be treated before disposal.

Waste Soil

During construction projects, a lot of soil is generated as waste. That is especially true when there is a structure to be erected from the ground. The quantity of waste soil depends on the size of the structure to be erected. There is a need to identify a suitable area to dispose of the soil. An example would be to spread it on an open field.

Construction projects result in the generation of a lot of waste, which is usually non-degradable but recyclable. Some of the generated waste is also hazardous. As such, it is vital to manage the waste appropriately to reduce its effects on the environment.

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