supplies to prevent and treat industrial injuries

Regardless of whether you are renting a dumpster for residential or commercial purposes, you are responsible for maintaining the condition of the dumpster as you received it. Your contract will normally state that you will be fined or charged for any damages that the dumpster sustained when in your hands.

One of the most common damages that you need to look out for is rusting. The bottom edges and corners of the dumpster is particularly vulnerable to rusting. If rust forms, these areas tend to wear down and form holes and cracks, which then allow rodents and other pests to enter the dumpster easily. Here are 3 tips for keeping rust at bay.

Keep the Dumpster Off of the Floor

Rust forms wherever the metal of the dumpster comes in contact with water for extended and prolonged periods of time. As stated above, the bottom edges of the dumpster is particularly vulnerable, as it is most commonly the only place that is in contact with water for extended periods of time. To prevent water from pooling in these areas, keep the dumpster off of the floor by raising it and placing it on a platform. You can even rent a dumpster with wheels on the bottom for the same effect.

It's also a good idea to place the dumpster on concrete or asphalt rather than in direct contact with soil. Soil will basically act as a sponge and absorb water without allowing it to properly drain away.

Place the Dumpster in a Shaded Area Away from Rain and Snow

If you live in a rainy area, it's also important that you consider where the best place to put the dumpster may be. In general, a shaded area that is tucked away from the elements, like rain and snow, will be best. If you can move the dumpster manually, place it in your garage during rainy days. Take it outside only when the sun is shining.

In the event that you can't find a shaded area to place the dumpster, you might want to consider creating your own shaded area. You can place a tarp over the dumpster or even install a pop-up canopy. Make sure that the side of the dumpster is properly shielded from the elements.

Ensure the Lid Is Always on Top

Not only is the outside of the dumpster vulnerable to rusting, but so is the inside walls of the dumpster. This is especially true since you probably won't be ventilating the inside of the dumpster much, and you also won't be manually drying it off whenever it gets wet since it's probably filled with waste already. It's easy for water to pool at the bottom of the dumpster, and especially at the corners and the edges. Over time, the water will cause those parts of the dumpster to form rust.

The best solution for preventing this from happening is to ensure that the lid always on top of the dumpster. Look for a lid that will allow the dumpster to ventilate, but will also tightly seal onto the dumpster to prevent water from entering. If the lid doesn't offer any ventilation at all, prop the lid up on a sunny day to ventilate the inside of the dumpster, and to allow any moisture that is trapped inside to escape.

Take good care of the dumpster while it is in your care; otherwise, you might face some expensive penalties and charges when you return it. Hopefully these tips will serve you well. To learn more about properly maintaining dumpsters, feel free to contact local dumpster rental companies.