There is more than just one type of trash can. In fact, there are dozens, each of which serves a unique purpose.
In any workplace, there are likely to be a wide variety of waste receptacles, including large, durable hard plastic garbage cans for collecting industrial waste to compact, utilitarian garbage cans that are small enough to fit under a desk.
Types of Trash Bins
While it’s difficult to categorize all the many types of garbage receptacles, they can generally be separated into two types: Those for indoor use and those for outdoor use.
Outdoor trash bins tend to be larger, heavier, and made from more durable materials, such as steel. They also usually will feature equipment that allows them to be handled mechanically by garbage trucks, recycling trucks, and other collection vehicles. These features can include casters, side rails, and spring-activated lids.
Indoor Trash Bins
While outdoor trash bins tend to be big and heavy, those designed for indoor use come in all shapes and sizes. The most common are probably the popular 55-gallon hard plastic cylinder-shaped garbage can. These are found in practically every dock, warehouse, and other workplaces.
Their versatility is what makes them so popular. They often feature an attachable caddy that allows them to be easily rolled from one are to another. They also are easy to clean, difficult to damage, and simple to use. They may or may not come with a detachable lid.
Not all of these types of trash receptacles are round. They also come in square, rectangular, and specialty shapes depending on their use.
Venting Unpleasant Odors
Other indoor trash bins are vented to allow gasses from deteriorating organic trash to escape. Things like food, industrial waste, and other materials that can break down after they are thrown away often generate unpleasant aromas.
Vented garbage cans allow these odors to escape and dissipate, rather than build up inside the can. If they weren’t vented, these gasses could build up and cause a potential health hazard.
Another interesting type of garbage can are those that are designed to suppress fires. These cans are made of fire-proof metal and feature a special, contoured lid that directs smoke and gas back into the combustion area. This unique design cuts off the fire’s air supply and extinguishes flames in seconds.
There are as many different kinds of trash receptacles as there are kinds of garbage. Finding the right ones for your workplace can boost productivity, improve safety, and make your employees more efficient.