How to Reduce Manufacturing Waste

07 May 2018

A great amount of industrial waste passes through manufacturing facilities. This “manufacturing waste” is problematic to society (environmentally damaging) and can curb productivity at your warehouse. Your company should always look for ways to deploy lean manufacturing strategies and keep the right waste management equipment in stock.

Fast Tips to Reduce Manufacturing Waste

1. Sort Your Waste

The complexities and costs that go into dangerous waste removal are vast. Your business should always make sure to separate waste based on whether it’s hazardous or not. The segmentation will save you money, even if it takes a little time — because you will be billed for a smaller amount of “hazardous” waste removal. When you don’t segment your waste you’ll create a larger amount of dangerous waste that is harder to get rid of.

2. Store Material Properly

Consciously address how inventory is stored with the goal of sustaining the minimal. Keep materials close to their final destination. Make sure all storage guidelines are adhered by completely as well, which will drastically reduce the risk of spills/waste.

3. Make Staff Care

Employees don’t go in to work looking forward to their waste management responsibilities. However, some steps can be taken to inspire them to not see it as a negative task. Select a “waste management leader” for each shift and let them feel accountable. Have each team develop action plans and goals, which are overseen by the leader.

4. Recycle Wherever Possible

Aim to recycle and re-use wherever possible. Whether that be via recycling any of your waste that is suitable for recycling, changing to reusable packaging, buying recycled products or simply encouraging customers to recycle.

Best Equipment for Waste Management

Get the right waste management equipment to maximize on your company’s attempt at manufacturing waste reduction. The products listed below are all common investments for busy manufacturers, so give them consideration if you’re not already stocked up.

Foot-Operated Lid Lifters

This type of waste management equipment makes it possible to make any waste bin more convenient to use. It’s a stainless steel constructed bar which attaches to the bin and allows the user to push down the bar with their foot to make the bin lid open. These convenient lifters are sold based on capacity, with the most common options being 80L, 120L and 240L.

Pictured: STURGO® Foot Operated Lid Lifter

Mobile Waste Wheelie Bins

Mobile garbage bins can be maneuvered all throughout your facilities to collect manufacturing waste wherever it can be found. These bins are must-haves for every operation because, without them, it’s only easy to transport heavy waste with a trolley. Just like with the lid lifters, the most common capacities for these bins are 80L, 120L and 240L.

Pictured: Mobile Waste Wheelie Bin

Wheelie Bin Electric Trolley

Move up to four bins at once with an electric trolley. Save considerable time on transporting your large lots of manufacturing waste. This highly convenient piece of waste management equipment will be compatible with larger bins, in the 120L to 360L range. While slightly more expensive than most other types of equipment, the time savings will make it a worthwhile investment.

Pictured: STURGO® Electric Platform Trolley with Centre Drive

Conclusion

Waste management is a battle that all manufacturing facilities face. It’s important to figure out a game plan and stick with it, but also monitor to see the results afterward. The tips and equipment suggestions advised here should give you an idea on how to get started. Definitely make sure to appoint someone (or multiple individuals) in charge of handling your waste because if it’s not taken seriously the results won’t last.

Are you looking to purchase waste management equipment? Contact us today and we will give you the right advice on the best equipment for your business.

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