Renting a dumpster is one of the best ways to handle extraordinary waste or garbage regular garbage collection can handle. However, your rental dumpster can also be a safety hazard if you don't know how to handle it. Below are a few things to consider to prevent dumpster-related injuries.

Level Surface

The dumpster needs to be on a level surface so that it won't slide or topple over once you begin to stuff it with garbage.  A dumpster is heavy even when empty. A dumpster full of debris is even heavier and can cause serious or even fatal injuries. Therefore, identify a level surface for the placement before the dumpster arrives.

Strong Surface

Apart from being level, the surface of the placement area should also be strong enough to withstand the weight of the dumpster. The dumpster may damage a weak surface or distort the surface and behave as if the dumpster is on an uneven surface. Therefore, make sure the dumpster won't affect your landscaping or pavement due to its weight.

Clear Surrounding

Clear the area around the dumpster for your safety. Make sure every piece of garbage you throw gets into the dumpster and not on the ground around it. Garbage such as broken toys, empty bottle, and discarded clothes can easily cause you to slip and fall when you approach the dumpster. Don't forget you will be carrying things, some of them heavy, most of the time when you approach the dumpster.

No Smoking

Smoking around the dumpster is always a bad idea. For one, the dumpster may have flammable materials that may catch fire if you smoke around it. Or, you might forget and throw the cigarette butt into the dumpster once you are done, which may also trigger a fire outbreak.

No Kids

Kids and dumpsters don't go together as far as dumpster safety is concerned. A dumpster is an attractive nuisance, something that most kids find attractive but which can cause the serious injuries. Some kids may love jumping in and out of the dumpster or playing hide and seek around the dumpster, which can all lead to injuries.

Safety Gear Necessary

Lastly, it's a good idea to use safety gear when taking garbage to the dumpster. The level of safety you need depends on the type of garbage you have. For example, a pair of gloves might be enough for regular residential waste, but wastes from a small business call for more protection.

Contact a dumpster rental service for more help.