Dumpster

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File:Front loading garbage truck loading a dumpster.webm

Dumpster
Dumpsters in Anaktuvuk Pass, Alaska

Dumpster is a brand of mobile garbage bin designed to be mechanically lifted and emptied into garbage trucks. The term is commonly used in the United States and Canada to refer to any type of mobile waste container, regardless of brand. The design of dumpsters allows for efficient waste management by providing a large, centralized container for temporary storage of waste and recyclables.

History[edit | edit source]

The dumpster was invented in the 1930s by George Dempster in Knoxville, Tennessee. He created the Dempster-Dumpster system to mechanically load the contents of standardized containers onto garbage trucks, which significantly improved efficiency by reducing the amount of labor needed for waste collection. The term "dumpster," a blend of "Dempster" and "dump," became genericized over time and is now used to refer to any similar waste container.

Design and Usage[edit | edit source]

Dumpsters come in a variety of sizes, typically measured in cubic yards, which indicates the volume of material they can hold. Common sizes include 10-yard, 20-yard, 30-yard, and 40-yard dumpsters, catering to different needs ranging from small residential projects to large construction jobs.

They are used for a wide range of purposes, including residential waste removal, construction debris, and commercial waste management. Specialized dumpsters for recyclable materials are also available, supporting efforts to separate and recycle waste.

Types of Dumpsters[edit | edit source]

There are several types of dumpsters, each designed for specific types of waste and usage scenarios:

  • Roll-off dumpsters: These are open-top containers transported by special roll-off trucks. They are commonly used for construction and demolition waste, large cleanouts, and other substantial waste removal jobs.
  • Front-load dumpsters: Smaller than roll-off dumpsters, these are typically found behind commercial establishments and are emptied by garbage trucks equipped with front-facing forks that lift the dumpster over the truck to empty it.
  • Rear-load dumpsters: Similar to front-load dumpsters but designed to be emptied by a garbage truck using a hinge and winch system that pulls the dumpster onto the truck's hopper.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

The use of dumpsters has both positive and negative environmental impacts. On the positive side, they facilitate the efficient collection and segregation of waste, contributing to recycling efforts and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. On the negative side, if not properly managed, dumpsters can lead to pollution and attract pests. Proper sealing and regular waste collection are essential to mitigate these issues.

Regulations[edit | edit source]

The placement and use of dumpsters are subject to local regulations and ordinances. These may dictate the allowable location, size, and type of waste that can be disposed of in dumpsters. It is important for users to be aware of and comply with these regulations to avoid fines and ensure that waste is managed responsibly.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Dumpsters play a crucial role in modern waste management systems, providing an efficient and effective way to collect, transport, and dispose of waste materials. As society continues to focus on sustainability and environmental protection, the importance of proper dumpster usage and waste management practices will only increase.

Dumpster Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD