Efficient recycling processes are essential for businesses committed to sustainability, and handling cardboard bales is an important part of that process. Cardboard is one of the most recycled materials, and baling it allows companies to maximise storage space and streamline recycling operations. However, improper storage and handling of baled cardboard, especially when you bale wet cardboard, can lead to safety risks and degraded material quality, making it less valuable for recycling.

Properly managing various recyclable materials, including cardboard, is crucial for achieving sustainability goals.

In this blog, we will cover best practices for storing and handling cardboard bales to ensure the material remains in the best condition for recycling and to prevent accidents. These practices will help businesses maintain a safe working environment while contributing to their environmental goals.

Understanding Cardboard Waste and Recycling

Cardboard waste is a significant contributor to the overall waste generated by businesses and households. Understanding the types of cardboard waste and the recycling process is crucial for effective waste management. Cardboard waste can be categorised into different types, including corrugated cardboard, paperboard, and cardboard boxes. These types of cardboard waste can be recycled and transformed into new products, reducing the need for virgin materials and minimising waste sent to landfills.

Recycling cardboard is a straightforward process that involves collecting, sorting, and processing cardboard waste. Cardboard recycling services can help businesses and households manage their cardboard waste efficiently. By recycling cardboard, we can conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save energy and water.

The importance of proper cardboard bale storage

Cardboard bales are large, compacted bundles of cardboard waste produced by baler machines. These bales allow for efficient transport and recycling, but they must be stored and handled correctly to avoid risks such as fires, accidents, and material deterioration. Improper storage of bales can lead to safety hazards, like stack collapses or fire risks, especially in industries that produce high volumes of cardboard waste. Additionally, wet cardboard can compromise the structural integrity of the bales, complicating the recycling process.

By implementing safe storage practices, businesses can not only protect their employees and premises but also ensure that the cardboard bales maintain their quality and value for recycling. Managing recyclable waste effectively is crucial to maintaining the quality and value of the bales, leading to financial benefits and a successful recycling program.

Best practices for storing cardboard bales

Stack bales safely

One of the most important aspects of storing cardboard bales is ensuring that they are stacked safely. Stacking them incorrectly can lead to pile instability, increasing the risk of collapse, which poses a serious hazard to employees.

•           Limit the height of the stacks: The height of stacked bales should be limited based on the weight and size of each bale. Limit stacks to no more than 3-4 bales high, depending on the strength of the cardboard and the storage conditions. Ensure that employees are trained to recognise the proper height limits for the stacks.

•           Stable stacking: Always place heavier and larger bales at the bottom of the stack. This creates a stable base, reducing the likelihood of a collapse. Stacking in a pyramid fashion can help to keep stacks stable. Avoid stacking bales unevenly or at an angle, as this can destabilise the entire pile.

•           Use equipment for stacking: Manual stacking of cardboard bales can be hazardous, especially with large and heavy bales. Using forklifts or other suitable handling equipment ensures that the bales are stacked properly and safely without causing strain to employees.

Choose an appropriate storage location

Where you store cardboard bales is critical to maintaining their condition and avoiding safety risks. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a storage area:

•           Away from ignition sources: Cardboard is highly flammable, so it’s crucial to store bales away from heat sources, open flames, and electrical equipment that could spark a fire. Make sure the storage area complies with fire safety regulations.

•           Proper ventilation: The storage area should be well ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can cause the cardboard to degrade or develop mould. Humidity and moisture can also make the cardboard less suitable for recycling, reducing its value.

•           Outdoor storage: If you store cardboard bales outdoors, ensure that they are covered with waterproof tarps or stored in a sheltered area to prevent exposure to rain or snow. Moisture will reduce the quality of the cardboard, making it less desirable for recyclers.

Avoid overloading storage areas

Overloading storage areas with too many cardboard bales can create safety risks and make it difficult for employees to navigate the space. Crowded storage areas can also obstruct fire exits and complicate emergency evacuations.

•           Clear pathways: Maintain clear access to the bales and ensure that aisles between stacks are wide enough for forklifts or other equipment to move safely. Employees should also be able to exit the storage area quickly in case of an emergency.

•           Monitor stack conditions: Regularly inspect the stacks (at least weekly!) and keep a record of inspections, to ensure that they remain stable over time. Environmental factors like humidity or temperature fluctuations can weaken the bales, making them more prone to collapse.

Implement fire safety measures for recycling cardboard

Given the flammable nature of cardboard bales, fire prevention measures are critical when storing large volumes of baled material.

•           Install fire extinguishers: Ensure that fire extinguishers are easily accessible in storage areas. Employees should be trained in their use, and fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to ensure they are in working order.

•           Establish fire evacuation routes: Fire evacuation routes should be clearly marked in the storage area, with pathways always kept clear. Conduct regular fire drills to ensure employees are familiar with emergency procedures.

•           Fire resistant storage: If possible, consider using fire resistant materials for walls and barriers in the storage area, especially if you’re storing large amounts of cardboard.

Monitor moisture levels

Moisture is the enemy of cardboard bales. When cardboard gets wet, it can weaken, leading to poor structural integrity. This not only makes the bales difficult to transport but also reduces their recyclability.

•           Keep the area dry: Whether you store your cardboard bales indoors or outdoors, ensure that the area always remains dry. Install moisture barriers or dehumidifiers in storage areas prone to dampness.

•           Check bales regularly: If you notice any signs of moisture damage or mould on the bales, take action to dry the storage area and prevent further damage.

Baling and Handling Cardboard

Baling cardboard is an essential step in the recycling process. It involves compressing cardboard waste into compact bales that can be easily transported and processed. Baling cardboard helps to reduce the volume of waste, making it easier to handle and store.

Baling Techniques

There are different baling techniques used to compress cardboard waste. The most common method is to use a cardboard baler, which can be either vertical or horizontal. Vertical balers are suitable for small to medium sized businesses, while horizontal balers are ideal for large scale operations. The baling process involves loading the cardboard waste into the baler, compressing it into a compact bale, and securing it with baling wire or strapping.

Safe Handling and Transportation

Safe handling and transportation of baled cardboard are crucial to prevent accidents and damage. Baled cardboard should be handled with care, as it can be heavy and unwieldy. It’s essential to use proper lifting techniques and equipment, such as pallet jacks or forklifts, to move and stack bales. When transporting baled cardboard, it’s essential to secure the bales properly to prevent them from shifting or falling during transit.

How phs Wastekit can help

At phs Wastekit, we provide businesses with the tools and services they need to safely bale, store, and recycle cardboard. Our range of baler machines makes it easy for businesses to compact their cardboard waste efficiently, reducing storage space and simplifying the recycling process.

Equipment for safe baling and storage with cardboard balers

•           Baler machines: Our range of high quality baler machines enables businesses to compact cardboard into uniform bales, making them easier to store and transport. The bales produced by our machines are dense and securely compacted, reducing the risk of stack instability during storage. Additionally, businesses can benefit from using baler machines to sell cardboard for recycling, obtaining rebates for baled cardboard waste.

•           Consumables and tools: We offer a comprehensive range of different high quality accessories for balers, such as baling twin, wire, strapping and more, to ensure your cardboard is baled safely and securely. We also stock a series of different useful tools to improve safety and support the use of our machinery.

Maximising Revenue from Recycled Cardboard

Recycled cardboard can be a valuable commodity, and businesses can generate revenue by selling their baled cardboard to recycling facilities. To maximise revenue, it’s essential to understand the market demand and prices for recycled cardboard. Baled cardboard prices can fluctuate depending on market conditions, so it’s crucial to stay up to date with market trends.

Businesses can also maximise revenue by ensuring that their cardboard waste is clean and free of contaminants. Contaminated cardboard can reduce the value of the baled cardboard, making it less desirable to recycling facilities. By implementing effective waste management practices, businesses can increase the value of their recycled cardboard and generate more revenue.

Additionally, businesses can consider partnering with cardboard recycling services that offer competitive prices and flexible collection options. These services can help businesses streamline their waste management processes, reduce costs, and increase revenue from recycled cardboard.

Maintenance and servicing for baled cardboard prices

In addition to providing the right equipment and accessories, phs Wastekit offers regular maintenance and servicing to keep your balers in top condition. Well maintained balers ensure consistent, safe operation, reducing the risk of mechanical issues that could affect the quality of your bales.

To learn more about how phs Wastekit can support your business with cardboard bales and recycling solutions, get in touch.