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Lock-Bars And Why You May Need One For Your Outside Exterior Dumpster

Dylan Cherko • Oct 19, 2021

When it comes to breaking into something, trash containers and dumpsters are probably not on the top of anyone’s list. However, as we in the waste industry know, trash containers and dumpsters are prime targets for others wanting to get rid of their waste, animals scavenging for food and homeless individuals looking for refuge.


What may come as a surprise to many of us is that outdoor dumpsters do sometimes serve as a place of refuge for homeless people. “We had a restaurant in Kennar, Louisiana, where a homeless man continued to take refuge in their dumpster. This not only created problems for the hauler trying to pick-up the trash, it also created safety concerns as well," commented Adi Andrews, Escalations and Sales Specialist, Waste Cost Solutions.

"The homeless community is 'dumped innocently' and it happens more than you would imagine. The scary part about this is that these individuals tend to end up in the middle of the trash truck, which has a compactor in it. The compactor tends to compact on its own, so there is no way to “stop” someone from getting crushed," Andrews added.


Although there was discussion of finding a way to clean-up the individual and ultimately offer him a position at the establishment, we ultimately had a lock-bar installed on the dumpster for the safety of both the establishment and the homeless man, added Andrews. 

Lock bars are also an effective means of keeping animals scavenging for food out of dumpsters, as well as intruders doing away with their trash. While it may come as no great revelation that animals frequently find their way into dumpsters for scraps of food, the problem is sometimes even worse with people placing everything from dead animals to items against code into easily accessible dumpsters, noted Andrews.


This usually results in additional costs and fees for the removal of the items in the dumpster. When an event of this nature occurs, we strongly recommend installing a lock bar for our clients for their own safety and security, concluded Andrews.


 Waste Cost Solutions is here to assist you with any waste management issues you may have, including waste and recycling issues, compliance matters, or other facilities service solutions. Whether your establishment needs a lock-bar on your outdoor dumpster, window cleaning or repair, exterior and interior painting, air conditioning replacement or repairs, bulk pick-up, an emergency dumpster, or if you’re looking to adhere to a local city ordinance, Waste Cost Solutions is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today at 800-509-5399 or email us

The purpose of a dumpster is to provide a convenient place to dispose of waste. However, if the dumpster is not properly secured, it can become a hazard. trash cans can tip over, and garbage can spill onto the ground. This can attract animals and insects, and it can create a messy and unsightly mess. In addition, unsecured dumpsters can be used as a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. To prevent these problems, it is important to make sure that all dumpsters have lock bars on them. By securely locking the dumpster, you can help to ensure that it will not be tipped over or become a breeding ground for hazardous organisms.


In addition to locking the dumpster, you should also consider placing a sign on it that warns people not to leave garbage or food near the dumpster. This will help to discourage people from dumping their trash in the dumpster and will help to keep the area around the dumpster clean. Finally, you should always make sure that the dumpster is emptied on a regular basis. By doing this, you can help to prevent the build-up of garbage and other debris that can attract animals and insects.


If you follow these tips, you can help to keep your dumpster safe and clean. However, if you are still having problems with your dumpster, you may want to consider hiring a professional to help you with its maintenance.


In addition to maintenance services, Waste Cost Solutions offers flexible rental options for 2 yard dumpsters and 4 yard dumpsters, as well as efficient and affordable junk removal services to keep your property clean and organized. Contact us today to learn more about our waste management solutions for your business.


Hiring a professional to help you with your dumpster's maintenance is a good idea if you are still having problems with it. By doing this, you can ensure that the dumpster is always in good condition and that it will not become a breeding ground for hazardous organisms.

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