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

Previous
Previous

New ElectronicaLab Door!

Next
Next

Sid’s Project: STM Camera!!