Tips on commercial business waste

Here are a few guidelines to keep a clean, green and litter-free business:

• Have proof handy
  All businesses in Tower Hamlets have a legal duty to dispose of their waste properly. Whichever company you use to take your waste away, always make sure that you have your copy of the Commercial Waste Contract and Duty of Care Agreement on your premises as proof and tell your employees where it can be found in your absence. Trade Waste collection is not included in your Business Rates. The fixed penalty for not having valid documentation for your commercial waste is £300.
• Keep containers clean
  Your container should be kept tidy and should be big enough to hold the waste you produce. Do not over-fill it and keep it in a reasonable location so that it does not create an obstruction. Do not pile waste around your container and don't allow other people to dump items or bags in the area around your business.
• Get the right day!
  If you use sacks for your waste, then you should only put them out on the day and time that it is to be collected. Putting rubbish out at any other day and time could be considered dumping and leave you liable to an £80 fine. There are also higher penalties if cases go to court.
• Keep your scene clean
  Be a responsible business, show your commitment to keeping the borough clean for everyone to enjoy. We can provide publicity materials for you to display in your business, so you can encourage your customers and residents to dispose of their litter responsibly.
• It’s better to recycle
  Wherever you work it is easy to start recycling Tower Hamlets.  Recycling collections are cheaper than waste collections and your business will benefit from having green credentials. Read more here