Litter bins

Where a bin belongs

The rule of thumb: where waste is generated, and along walking routes. That means at bus stops, at the exit of a shop or a takeaway, at playgrounds, at the entrance to a park, next to benches and picnic spots, and at junctions of walking routes.

Distance matters just as much. Anybody who has to walk more than a few tens of metres out of their way with a wrapper in hand will drop it. Better more small bins in the right places than a few large ones in the wrong places. When drawing up a layout plan we walk the pedestrian routes with you instead of working from a fixed number per hectare.

Versions

What determines the workload

The choice of opening and the way the bin is emptied determine how much work it creates. Points we raise as a matter of course:

• How is the sack clamped in place? A sack that comes loose in the wind means picking up litter every time.
• How is the bin opened? With a key, a triangular key or a flap, and does the crew already carry that key for other street furniture?
• Does the standard sack size fit, or does a non-standard format have to be bought in?
• Is the inner bin removable, and can one person lift it when it is full?

That last point is an occupational safety question that is rarely asked at purchase and matters every week afterwards.

Material and vandalism

Hot-dip galvanised and powder-coated steel is the standard: strong, repairable and available in any colour. Composite from recycled plastic is maintenance-free and barely fades. Concrete is virtually indestructible but heavy. Stainless steel is used where appearance is the deciding factor.

In sensitive locations a version with concealed fixings, no loose parts and a coating that releases graffiti pays off. Fire resistance also plays a part: a plastic inner bin in an open bin is an invitation. There we advise a metal inner bin.