Securing Dumpsters: Locks, Lids and Enclosures Prevent Theft and Contamination

Securing Your Dumpsters and Preventing Theft and Contamination

For many businesses, dumpsters are a necessary part of operations. However, unpackaged dumpsters can lead to a host of problems including theft, vandalism, and contamination from pests or hazardous materials. Thankfully, there are products available to secure your dumpsters and protect your business.

The Risks of Unsecured Dumpsters

Open and unsecured dumpsters can pose a number of risks:

• People digging through your trash for personal information or valuables
• Contamination from hazardous materials that get tossed into your dumpster
• Food waste attracting rats, flies, and other pests
• Wind blowing lightweight trash like plastic bags out of the dumpster

All of these issues can lead to health risks, environmental hazards, and even legal and financial consequences for your business. But the good news is that securing your dumpsters can prevent many of these problems.

Dumpster Locks and Lids

One of the best ways to secure dumpsters is with a lock and lid system. Heavy duty lids fit tightly over the dumpster opening while integrated locks allow only authorized people to access inside. Locks are often mounted on the lids themselves, with businesses controlling who has keys. Some dumpster lids even have slots that allow you to feed the locks through brackets on the dumpster itself for maximum security.

Locking lids deter thieves, trespassers, and dumpster divers by restricting access. They also prevent issues like windblown debris and keep out larger pests. Some lids have rubber gaskets for an extra tight seal as well.

Dumpster Enclosures

In addition to locks and lids, businesses can install permanent dumpster enclosures. These small lockable sheds fully enclose the dumpster inside. Enclosures offer protection from theft, graffiti, debris, and pests.

Dumpster enclosures feature walls and a roof made from durable materials like steel, aluminum, brick, or concrete. A locking gate allows authorized waste collectors to access the dumpster inside but keeps everyone else out. And just like individual dumpster locks, businesses can control key distribution to further restrict access.

Renting Locked Dumpsters

Rather than trying to retrofit locks or lids onto your existing dumpsters, many waste management companies offer dumpster rentals with built-in locks. These specialized units have integrated locking mechanisms and may feature heavier duty construction to further deter break-ins.

Locked rental dumpsters let you forego permanent enclosures on your property. And if your business only needs a dumpster occasionally, a rental allows you to have a secured unit on-hand just when you need it.

Deterring Dumpster Divers and Securing Personal Information

Some people dig through dumpsters looking for valuables to resell or personal information like credit card numbers and account details. Properly securing dumpsters helps deter this illegal activity.

Businesses can also implement internal policies like shredding documents with sensitive customer data before disposal. Compacting trash inside bins rather than tossing loose bags will also make it harder for dumpster divers to sort through materials.

Installing video surveillance around your dumpster area will additionally discourage trespassers and divers while helping law enforcement if illegal activity does occur.

Keep Your Business and Customers Safe

Unsecured dumpsters lead to theft, contamination, and needless risks for businesses. But by investing in solutions like locks, lids, and enclosures, companies can better protect their trash, property, and bottom line.

If you have concerns about your current dumpsters or are looking for more ways to bolster security, speak with your waste management provider about locks and other dumpster safety options available.

FAQs

What are the benefits of locking dumpster lids?

Locked lids deter thieves, prevent windblown trash, and keep pests out. Some have rubber gaskets for extra security. Locks allow businesses to restrict access.

Do I need an enclosure if my dumpster has a locking lid?

Enclosures provide additional protection but lockable lids do offer good security on their own. Lids may suit businesses lacking space or funds for full enclosures.

How much do dumpster lid locks cost?

Pricing varies by material, size and features. Locking systems typically range from $100 for budget models to over $300 for heavy duty industrial locks integrated with the entire lid and mounting hardware.

Can I retrofit a lock onto my existing dumpster?

Yes, many locking products are designed to mount onto standard roll-off dumpsters. But for new dumpster purchases, models with integrated locks can provide enhanced security.

Should I shred documents before dumping?

Shredding sensitive paper documents helps protect customer data and deters potential dumpster divers looking for personal information.