Clearing snow and ice from containers allows for collection of recycling, food waste and garbage

Winter weather Q&A for businesses and property managers

Winter is coming—so are holiday events and out-of-town visitors. For businesses and property managers across British Columbia, this is an important time to have regular recycling, food waste and garbage service.

Waste Management of Canada Corporation (WM) notes that when snow and ice block WM containers, drivers may be unable to service customers.

“Now is the time for businesses and property managers to prepare for winter weather across British Columbia,” said Chad Brooks, WM area director, collection operations.

Here is a Q & A with WM about the importance of winter weather container preparation:

Question: Why clear snow and ice from containers?

Answer: WM is asking businesses and property managers to keep areas clear to make sure containers are accessible. WM notes the volume of household waste can rise significantly during the holidays, and regular recycling, yard waste and garbage collection is accordingly important.

Question: How do I make sure I get my regular collection?

Answer: Remove snow and ice from the sides, front and tops of containers. This is essential for containers on wheels. Access lanes and driveways must also be clear for WM trucks. Please conduct any such clearing activities only when it is safe, however, and certainly not when WM or other vehicles are present.

Question: Can WM trucks handle snow and ice?

Snow and ice might prevent collection because WM drivers need to access and roll containers as part of the collection process. Extremely heavy containers cannot be maneuvered with ice and snow blocking the path.

Now in its third decade of service in B.C., WM serves the public sector as well as the construction and demolition industry, property managers, manufacturers and businesses.

Waste Management of Canada Corporation photos

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