How to Create a Construction Site Waste Management Plan
Construction and Demolition (C&D) materials comprise a significant portion of the waste stream. Improperly managed waste can lead to excessive odors, potential fire hazards, water contamination, and exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Collecting, transporting, and disposing of construction waste can be costly and resource-intensive. However, with the proper planning in place before the start of demolition activities, you can manage construction sites with minimal impact on project timelines and costs.
We'll be walking you through how to create, manage and document a construction waste management plan from start to finish.
What Is a Construction Waste Management Plan?
A construction waste management plan outlines the procedure for managing waste at the construction site. It addresses the best way to manage construction and demolition materials on-site.
A good construction waste management plan will clearly outline waste containment procedures. It includes the materials and equipment necessary to collect and transport C&D materials.
Secondary containment, such as a portable container or a trash enclosure, should be in the plan. This approach ensures minimal to no contact with surrounding areas when collecting or dumping materials. Outline how to transport construction waste to a permitted facility and the type of facility used.
Why Do Construction Sites Need a Waste Management Plan?
Collecting and managing waste at a construction site can be a challenging task. Construction waste volumes are unpredictable, especially as they relate to demolition projects. The quantity of waste generated is not linear from one day to the next or from one week to the next.
A construction waste management plan for a construction site can help ensure that you appropriately manage the materials generated on-site. It outlines the correct procedures for collecting, storing, transporting, and disposing of construction and demolition materials.
What Can Happen Without a Proper Waste Management Plan?
Without a plan, waste management construction debris materials may be left on-site and outside the approved facility for disposal. Inadequately contained waste can lead to improper handling, potential contamination of waterways or soil, and potential exposure to hazardous chemicals or substances. Let's review the dangers of improper waste management.
Breeding Ground for Disease Vectors
Construction waste management plans can help reduce the risk of disease transmission, such as with pathogenic microorganisms. Pathogenic microorganisms include viruses, bacteria, and molds. These organisms can cause various illnesses, from infectious diseases to life-threatening conditions. The primary vectors for most human infectious diseases are contaminated water and airborne dust particles.
Contributes to Global Climate Change
C&D waste contributes to more than a quarter of the world's total generated rubbish. It leads to excessive greenhouse gas emissions and methane generation. Without a proper waste management plan, construction sites can be a source of global climate change and human health risks.
Increases Water Pollution
C&D waste not disposed of properly can impact surface and groundwater resources. Construction sites frequently produce hazardous substances, including heavy metals and chemicals used in various products. These materials are harmful to both humans and the environment.
How to Create a Construction Waste Management Plan
Create waste management plans in consultation with environmental experts in the local area. They should be updated regularly, especially during major construction projects. Below are the steps to create your construction waste management plan.
Conduct Waste Inventory
The first step in creating a construction waste management plan is conducting a site waste inventory. This strategy will help you determine the best methods for managing construction and demolition materials.
Most large-scale C&D projects involve more than one phase of demolition and construction activities. Estimating the amount of waste generated for all stages can help to ensure that waste is managed correctly at the site. Estimates should include types of materials, quantities, and potential volume changes based on the size or scope of the project.
Look Into Local Waste Disposal Facilities and Transportation Options
Proper research will help identify the best facilities for disposing of your construction and demolition waste in your area. Performing due diligence on the location and services provided at permitted municipal landfills is essential.
Depending on your project, it may be necessary to transport waste management construction debris many miles from the site. You must select a location that can facilitate easy transportation and disposal of waste materials and waste management construction debris. Select a facility that can handle your project's volume requirements.
Identify the Practical and Available Recycling Options
Many construction projects do not have room for on-site storage. However, recycling should still be essential to your overall construction waste management plan.
Perform an analysis to determine the types and quantities of waste management construction debris you can recycle and to what extent. Look at the equipment you will need to recycle materials and estimate any extra labor costs associated with each recycling process.
Communicate and Train Your Staff
Communicate C&D waste management plans to all project personnel, including subcontractors, trade professionals, and laborers. Everyone on-site should have an understanding of the plan and proper procedures for waste handling.
Training is also an essential part of the process. Construction workers can benefit from hands-on training to ensure they follow procedures at the site. Offloading materials should coordinate between project personnel and management teams to ensure a safe working environment.
Submit Waste Estimates to Obtain Permits
After completing your waste management plan, submit it to the appropriate local authority for approval. Many states have stringent waste management standards. These standards are in place to protect the natural environment and human health.
Failure to follow proper construction waste management procedures can lead to fines, penalties, mitigation costs, or even criminal charges.
Aim for Continuous Improvement
Creating a proper construction waste management plan is essential in construction and demolition. Without a plan, C&D waste can create harmful air pollutants, contribute to global climate change, and pose human health risks. Through proper planning and communication, you can effectively manage C&D waste for the duration of your project.
WIN Waste Innovations offers sanitation and waste management services in Greater Columbus, Ohio, and surrounding cities. Contact us today for professional services and valuable insight into waste management and construction waste removal.