Improving sustainability and recycling rates at your business is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity in order to comply with regulation, reduce costs and meet customer demands. However, many businesses are falling into the trap of buying the wrong equipment for the job and it is costing them, in more ways than one.

Waste management equipment, like balers and compactors, are the most popular solutions for segregating waste and managing business waste streams. They reduce the volume and costs associated with waste and they can even bring in revenue through recycling rebates – but, without the right machine, it may be money wasted.

Jason Smith, Managing Director of phs Wastekit, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of waste management equipment, explains: “It’s important that the piece of equipment you invest in meets your needs, and not just your budget.

“It is easy to go online and purchase a cheap, budget baler or compactor from abroad, but it is usually a case of ‘you get what you pay for’. Low quality, non-certified machines are prone to breakdowns and repairs, and getting parts can be difficult. You rarely get any after-sales either, so once you buy it, it’s up to you to maintain it and it’s your problem if things go wrong.

“There is also a market for purchasing non-certified, pre-owned machines online, which can be tempting because of the initial cost savings you make on a once quality machine. However, buying this way means you do not know the history of that equipment – how old it is, how many repairs it’s had, how many hours of use it has logged or if there is a warranty. Not only could buying a faulty machine be a costly exercise, but it can also be a danger to those who use it.

“Then, of course, is the issue of insurance. Buying a cheap, un-certified machine could invalidate your insurance, so if it causes a fire or an injury, you may not be covered.

“Above all, businesses have a duty of care for the health and safety of their employees and customers and buying a cheap machine can risk lives.

“You also need to ensure you are making the right kind of investment. Without experience, it is easy to buy the wrong type of equipment for your waste needs. Many businesses buy too small or too big or miss out on space-saving options that could meet their needs.

“Always buy from an experienced and reputable supplier who can provide advice on the correct equipment, provide important training on safely using the equipment and on-going maintenance to keep your machines safe and fit-for-use.”  

phs Wastekit is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of balers and compactors, providing businesses with a whole service approach that supports them on their waste management and sustainability journey.

Armed with expert advice and guidance and the very latest waste management technology, phs Wastekit is the partner of choice for many sectors, including retail, hospitality, manufacturing and food and drink production.

Working closely with their customers, the team help to reduce the cost of their waste, improve environmental performance and create cleaner, tidier environments for the people using their space.

Part of the phs Group, phs Wastekit offers a nationwide service. As well as supplying high quality, excellent value, baler and compactor machines, phs Wastekit offers servicing and maintenance packages right across the UK, as well as partnerships with recycling companies to support customers on the road to greener waste management.

phs Wastekit offers a free Waste Saving Audit and free trial of any machine to businesses to identify the savings that could be made and offer advice on sustainable waste management practices to support positive changes for the planet’s future.

www.phswastekit.co.uk