Keeping a worksite clear of waste material improves worker safety and helps to avoid fires.
Work areas, passageways and stairs should be kept clear of waste material and debris. Waste material and debris should be removed at regular intervals during the course of construction. Removal of waste materials should be done in a safe manner.
If waste materials are dropped from a higher level:
(1) an enclosed chute should be used if the material is dropped more than 20 feet along the outside of building
(2) an enclosed chute can be used if debris is dropped inside a building. Alternatively, an enclosed area with barricades >= 42 inches high with sides >= 6 feet back from the projected opening above. Signs at each level should warn of the hazard of falling material. Removal of waste from the enclosed area should only be done when debris handling above has been stopped.
Waste should be separated.
Separate containers with covers should be used for:
(1) garbage
(2) hazardous waste (acids, harmful dusts, caustic agents, etc)
Fire-resistant containers with covers should be used for
(1) oily and used rags
(2) solvent waste
(3) flammable liquids
Accumulated and sorted waste should be removed at frequent and regular intervals in compliance with local regulations.
Wood and combustible materials can be burned if allowed for by local fire regulations.
