Disposing Trash Correctly In M5
Here at M5 we generate lots of odd waste you wouldn’t typically see so here is a simple guide on the correct way to dispose of items
We can start off with what you probably already know:
NO FOOD WASTE IN M5
to help keep this place clean and bug free we require you to dispose of food waste outside of M5. what I typically do is throw it away in the hallway, as those bins are emptied much more regularly than M5 trash cans
you can still eat in M5 in the correct room (Great Room)
Recycle: Blue Bin or Green Bin
These are common and self explanatory, please dispose of only Bottles, Cans & Paper in these bins.
Proper recycling supports sustainability efforts in our workspace.
General Trash: Gray Bins with Wooden Top
Unlike at home, not everything else goes in these, there are some extra restrictions:
No Food Waste
No electronic waste
No mechanical waste
This bin is for general non-hazardous, non-recyclable waste. Mixing in restricted items can lead to pest issues or improper disposal.
Electronic Waste
We currently do not have a member accessible electronic waste bin so you must bring your electronic waste to a staff member for proper disposal.
Electronic waste often contains hazardous components such as lithium-ion batteries, capacitors, and heavy metals. These materials can pose serious risks if mishandled, including:
Fire hazards from damaged or shorted batteries
Chemical exposure from leaking components
Improper storage leading to regulatory violations or environmental harm
To ensure safety and compliance with hazardous waste protocols, only trained staff are authorized to manage and dispose of these items.
Mechanical Waste: Contractor Bin in Machine Shop
Accepted:
Scrap metal
Machine parts
Hardware (nuts, bolts, washers)
Not Accepted:
Organic packaging
Electronics
Mixing electronics or food waste with metal scraps can contaminate recycling streams and pose safety hazards.
Oily Waste: Red Oily Waste Bin in Machine Shop
Accepted:
Used solvents
Chemical-soaked rags
Oily cloths and wipes
Important Rule:
This type of waste can only be disposed here or at a hazardous waste facility due to spontaneous combustion hazard
Why it matters: Improper disposal of chemical or oily waste can lead to fire hazards and environmental violations.
Wood Scraps
Wood Scraps Only
This is for wood waste that you generate in the Machine Shop, used solely for recycling and reuse for other wood projects.
wood waste that cannot be used further should be disposed of in the Mechanical Waste Bin