Skip hire is a convenient and efficient solution for waste removal and disposal for homes and businesses alike. However, there are important regulations surrounding skip use that must be followed to ensure legal operation and safety.
We cover the essential aspects of skip hire from legal requirements such as getting a permit from local authorities, to tips on what size of skip to rent for your project. We also discuss important safety considerations like making sure that your load is secured properly before moving it away from your site.
With this guide, we aim to help you navigate through the rules and regulations surrounding skip hire so that you can complete your project without any issues or delays.
Waste Carrier Licence
Any company offering skip hire services is legally required to hold a valid waste carrier licence issued by the Environment Agency or by Natural Resources Wales if operating in Wales. This involves meeting criteria around record keeping, safe and appropriate transportation of waste, and only using authorised waste management facilities for disposal.
Always verify that your chosen skip hire provider holds a current waste carrier licence before using them. Reputable companies will openly provide their licence number and credentials.
Duty of Care
The Environmental Protection Act 1990 places a duty of care obligation on both the hirer of the skip and the skip provider. This means both parties share responsibility for ensuring that waste is managed properly from collection through to final disposal.
Specific duties include only passing waste to an authorised person, completing waste transfer notes for traceability, safe transportation, steps to prevent fly-tipping, and only using approved waste sites. Keep copies of transfer notes as proof waste was handled correctly.
Skips on Public Roads
Placing a skip on a public road or pavement requires a permit from your local council. The skip hire company will usually apply for this on your behalf, but you may need to seek permission if organising a skip independently. Applications require details of the proposed skip location and duration.
The skip must display clear markings such as reflective strips to inform motorists and pedestrians of its presence. It should not obstruct visibility for road users. Skips should also not block vehicle access to properties.
Safe Placement
The placement of skips requires care. They should be sited on firm, level ground with clear access so they can be filled and emptied safely. Avoid positioning near busy roads, road junctions, roundabouts and pedestrian crossings where they may obstruct other users.
Consider any overhead cables and branches too and allow adequate clearance. Discuss your proposed skip location with the hire company, as their expert input can prevent issues.
Covering Loads
Waste inside skips must be secured during transport to prevent loose debris falling onto roads. Netting, tarpaulins or sheeting should be used to cover any potentially loose waste such as soil, rubble, vegetation clippings or demolition debris. This stops dangerous road spillages and litter.
Hazardous Waste
Special regulations apply to the disposal of hazardous waste, including asbestos, chemicals, solvents, paint, batteries, fluorescent tubes, gas bottles and more. Most standard skip companies cannot handle hazardous waste. Any hazardous items should be declared upon ordering a skip so proper provision can be made.
It is illegal to place hazardous waste into a regular skip. You must use a specialist hazardous waste carrier to dispose of it safely. mYou may need to arrange a separate hazardous waste collection.
Locked Access
Skips located in public areas should have lockable lids in order to prevent unauthorised access and illegal fly-tipping of rubbish after hours. If a skip is damaged or access compromised, notify the skip company immediately so the issue can be addressed before illegal dumping occurs. Do not attempt to remove unknown waste yourself.
Overfilling/Overloading
Exceeding the stated capacity of a skip by overfilling or overloading it with extremely heavy materials can make it unstable and dangerous to transport. Waste must not be piled higher than the skip rim. An overloaded unit may need removing and replacing which disrupts projects. Check with your provider if you are unsure of load limits.
DIY Waste
Standard household waste can typically be placed in a domestic skip with no issue. However certain DIY project waste may be subject to specific rules for disposal. This includes potential contaminants like treated timber, tyres, car parts, asbestos, soil and hardcore, plasterboard, electrical items and more.
Always check with your skip firm about any questionable waste types to avoid contamination or illegal disposal fines. Be fully transparent about your waste content to remain compliant.
For Professional Skip Hire in Towcester, Call Today
Having access to professional, experienced and legal skip hire in Towcester can make all the difference to your projects.
The right advice from a professional skip hire will help you stay compliant with all legal requirements and avoid costly fines. For professional skip hire in Towcester, call 01327 437781 today for more information.
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