Sanitary Bins

Sanitary Waste Disposal

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Initial's Sanitary Bins

Sanitary bins enable the safe and discreet disposal of sanitary waste in public toilets. This includes period products like sanitary pads and tampons, as well as panty liners and baby / personal wipes which require hygienic disposal in the toilet cubicle. Providing sanitary bins in all toilet cubicles means your washroom users can dispose of their sanitary waste discreetly and hygienically.

Sanitary Bins: Collection of waste

Proper sanitary waste disposal is essential in helping to maintain a clean and hygienic washroom environment for your employees, visitors, and customers. Failure to adequately manage period and incontinence waste can lead to unpleasant odours, the spread of infections, and potential legal issues.

Outsourcing your sanitary waste collection to a licensed waste carrier such as Initial Washroom Hygiene ensures that the servicing and collection of waste are documented and recorded correctly for your records. All our customers receive a Waste Transfer Document that adheres to the legal requirements around sanitary waste disposal.

Initial’s Sanitary Bin Service

In recent years, Initial has revolutionised the conventional sanitary bin collection service by presenting customers with an effective, and eco-friendly solution.

Our On Site Sanitary Bin Service ensures the hygienic emptying and cleaning of sanitary bins on site, and then the disposal of the collected waste. We assure complete adherence to legal regulations, including the timely issuance of annual Waste Transfer Notes, to guarantee that your business premises comply with all government standards.

Are There Regulations for Sanitary Waste Disposal in the UK?

There is a requirement for UK businesses to provide sanitary waste disposal options, as there are several key pieces of legislation that businesses need to adhere to.

  • Water Industry Act 1991 - Water Industry Act 1991 - this states that no sanitary waste should be flushed away as it can lead to blockages.

  • Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 - This states that businesses need to provide all female toilets with a suitable method for disposing of sanitary waste.

  • The Environmental Protection Act 1990 - States that businesses have a Duty of Care to collect, store, transfer, and dispose of waste that is created on their premises by an authorised company, and this includes sanitary waste.

Initial is a licensed company that contains, transfers and disposes of sanitary waste in line with Duty of Care legislation. We provide all our customers with an annual Waste Transfer Note to showcase compliance with government regulations.

Choosing the Right Sanitary Bins for Your Business

Here are some guidelines to help you to choose the correct sanitary bins for your business:

  • Assess the footfall in your building or business - Higher traffic areas and the number of toilet cubicles will determine the number of sanitary disposal bins your business needs.

  • Design of the toilet cubicle - Accessible toilets may require a different-sized sanitary bin. Initial has designed a smaller sanitary waste bin that easily fits in smaller toilet cubicles with room for users to still comfortably sit on the toilet seat.

  • Hygienic features - Initial’s Signature sanitary bins have an antibacterial coating and a No Touch option to minimise the risk of cross contamination.

  • Washroom aesthetics - You can accessorise with a range of colours that complement any brand and washroom design. Alternatively, if you prefer a discreet sanitary waste bin option, the Initial Signature range offers a more subtle design.

  • Practicality - Sanitary bin design has evolved over the years. You can now choose to have a bin with a No Touch lid that lifts by pedal or sensor operation. We also offer wall mounted sanitary bins with a bracket that lifts the bin off of the floor, allowing for easier cleaning.

  • Sustainability and environmental considerations - Our Initial Signature Lite Eco-Mini bin contains 39% less plastic in the base than our standard unit. We provide On Site Sanitary Bin Services which means that one of our operatives will hygienically empty and clean your sanitary waste bin on location instead of exchanging it. Therefore, less fuel and water are being used in the cleaning of your unit.

Initial will help you to choose the correct sanitary disposal bins for your business and ensure that you sanitary waste collection is performed by our trained experts in line with Duty of Care legislation.

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Our On Site Sanitary Bin Service: undertaken directly on your premises

What is On Site Service?

Our sanitary bin service involves the process of cleaning your sanitary bins on site, instead of exchanging them for units that have been cleaned in our depots.

Regular sanitary waste collection is essential to prevent overflow and maintain cleanliness standards. Our sanitary bin service streamlines this process, ensuring that your bins are emptied promptly and efficiently, and in accordance with government legislation. We offer flexible schedules and adhere to strict hygiene protocols.

Our On Site Sanitary Bin Service ensures your Initial sanitary bins are cleaner and minimises the potential risks of cross contamination by keeping the unit in the same location at all times.

Our sanitary bin service is environmentally friendly - saving water, and transport costs, using less plastic, and providing a smaller chemical footprint.

How Does Initial’s On Site Sanitary Bin Service work?

  • Your Customer Delivery Representative arrives at your site with their full complement of PPE, including needlestick and nitrile gloves and an On Site Servicing sanitary bin trolley with a protective bag.
  • After arriving in the washroom, our driver will apply their PPE and begin to service the sanitary bin.
  • The sanitary disposal bin will be emptied into the waste trolley.
  • Units are cleaned with either Byotrol* wipes or reusable cotton roller towels with Steri 7 disinfectant.
  • The sanitary bin liner will be replaced, and the bin will be returned to its position.

What are the Benefits of Initial’s Sanitary Bin Service?

Not only does sanitary waste disposal ensure a safe and hygienic environment for your washroom users, but it also adheres to regulations surrounding the disposal of sanitary waste.

Economic Value

Helps to avoid costly toilet blockages.

Environmental

We minimise the amount of waste sent to landfill by using waste-to-energy initiatives.

Health and Hygiene

Hygienic disposal of offensive waste eliminates the health risks from cross contamination.

Image

Shows you care for your employees and visitors' welfare.

Legislation

Keeps you compliant with the Workplace Regulations and the Environmental Protection Act. Read more about sanitary waste regulations.

User Experience

Provides a hygienic and pleasant-to-use facility.

Explore Our Range of Sanitary Bins

Signature Lite Eco Mini Sanitary Bin

Signature Lite Eco Mini Sanitary Bin

Our new sanitary unit boasts a clever design which enables placement alongside the toilet even in the smallest of cubicles, with the option of a bracket to take it off of the floor

  • Contains 39% less plastic than our other units
  • Designed to fit smaller and narrow cubicles
  • Perfect for washrooms which are used less frequently
  • No Touch operation to maximise hygiene levels
  • Integral antibacterial technology - improving surface hygiene and helping prevent the spread of germs by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
  • Wall-mounted option available to remove unit from the floor and optimise cleaning and hygiene.

Specifications:

  • Specifications:
  • Weight: 1426g
  • Dimensions: H 341mm x W 288mm x D 160mm
  • Capacity: 10L
  • Available in No Touch
  • Motor module is waterproof
  • Finishes: White

Signature Lite Sanitary Bin

Initial Sanitary bin - Signature Lite

Our compact Signature Lite sanitary bin perfectly balances cost-effectiveness with functionality

  • Sleek design saves valuable cubicle space
  • Antimicrobial coating reduces the spread of germs
  • BioFresh inserts combat unpleasant odours
  • Available in white and silver
  • Available in manual and No Touch

Specifications:

  • Capacity: 17.5L
  • Dimensions: H 499mm x W 396mm x D 167mm
  • Weight: 1.426kg
  • Material: ABS Plastic for unit and lid
  • No Touch motor module is waterproof

Signature Standard Sanitary Bin

Initial Sanitary bin - Signature

Available in a range of colours and operations, the Signature sanitary disposal bin will work in any and all premises

  • BioFresh inserts combat unpleasant odours
  • Large modesty flap allows for easy waste disposal
  • Antimicrobial coating reduces the spread of germs
  • Available in two colours
  • Available in manual, pedal and No Touch

Specifications

  • Capacity: 14L
  • Dimensions: H 550mm x W 400mm x D 160mm
  • Weight: 1.9kg
  • Pedal assembly height: 60mm

Reflection Stainless Steel Sanitary Bin

Initial Sanitary bin - Reflection range

The timeless stainless steel design of our Reflection unit is ideal for any premium location

  • Fingerprint resistant
  • Available in two sizes
  • Available in manual and No Touch

Standard unit specifications

  • Capacity: 24L
  • Dimensions: H 650mm x W 320mm x D 210mm
  • Weight: 7.28kg
  • Material: Stainless steel grade 304 for unit and plastic lid

Compact unit specifications

  • Capacity: 10L
  • Dimensions: H 450mm x W 260mm x D 180mm
  • Weight: 4.35kg
  • Material: Stainless steel grade 304 for unit and plastic lid

Male incontinence sanitary bin

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Sanitary Bins: Frequently Asked Questions


  • What is a sanitary bin?

    This is a specific bin for the collection, storage, and disposal of sanitary and hygiene products by washroom users including tampons, sanitary towels and pads, hygiene wipes, and incontinence pads. Sanitary bins are required in female, male, and gender neutral toilets for the disposal of stoma waste, and incontinence pads, alongside period waste.


  • What is sanitary waste?

    Sanitary waste refers to waste created solely by humans. In this context it refers to the waste created by the use of menstrual hygiene (period) and incontinence products.


  • Is sanitary waste classed as hazardous?

    Sanitary waste is classed as “offensive waste” by the Department of Health. All waste must be properly dealt with to prevent health risks.


  • Can incontinence pads be disposed of in sanitary waste bins?

    Incontinence pads, stoma products, and other hygiene waste can be wrapped carefully and disposed of in sanitary waste bins. These will be handled and incinerated in the same way as other sanitary waste.


  • Should Sanitary Bins be placed in Men’s toilets?

    Yes, with the greater understanding and acceptance of men’s health and hygiene needs, there has been an increased need to have bin services in men's washrooms. Initial’s Male Sanitary Bin fits discreetly in a male toilet cubicle, providing a male focused solution. Our ‘Stalls for All’ male incontinence campaign advocates for washroom dignity and proper facilities for everyone, understanding that there is a growing need for these services amongst UK businesses.


  • Is there a sanitary waste disposal law in the UK?

    All three of The Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulation 1992The Water Industries Act 1991 and The Environmental Protection Act 1990 impose various guidelines on businesses that make sanitary bins necessary.


  • Do workplaces have to provide sanitary products?

    Businesses are not legally required to provide sanitary and period products, although in recent years, more workplaces have been offering these products. Initial offers an In Cubicle Period Dignity Dispenser that contains organic pads and tampons, reusable options such as period pants, pads and menstrual cups from the convenience of the toilet cubicle to provide ultimate discretion.


  • How is sanitary waste disposed of?

    The Water Industries Act 1991 states that sanitary products should not be flushed down the toilet, as this can cause costly blockages in sewers and drains. Sanitary waste disposal requires a Waste Transfer Note from a licensed provider to ensure that the waste is stored, transferred and disposed of in a compliant and environmentally safe manner.

    Initial Washroom Hygiene ensures that your business is compliant with sanitary waste regulations and provides your business with a Waste Transfer Note that demonstrates adherence to government regulations.


  • How often should sanitary bins be emptied?

    The frequency of your sanitary bin service will vary from weekly to every 8 weeks, depending on the number of employees, guests and visitors on your premises. We offer variable visit frequencies to suit all requirements.


  • Can staff empty sanitary bins?

    Under the Duty of Care Legislation, businesses in the UK should ensure that sanitary waste is contained safely and disposed of by an authorised company. Businesses must use a disposal company with licensed transport for recovering controlled waste. When controlled waste is transferred, correct documentation, such as a Waste Transfer Note, describing relevant details, is required.


  • What is a Waste Transfer Note?

    A waste transfer note is a document used to record the transfer of waste from one person or business to another. It includes details like the type and amount of waste being transferred, when it was transferred, and where it's going. These notes are important for keeping track of waste disposal and ensuring it's done legally and responsibly.

Is your business providing period products to your washroom visitors?

We provide your business with a range of reusable and period products, all available from within the toilet cubicle, for ultimate discretion and convenience.