Waste

Food waste and rubbish carry bacteria and attract pests. Waste must be removed from rooms where food is present as quickly as possible. Keep it away from food preparation and storage areas where you can.

Put food waste and rubbish into sealable containers. They must be solid and strong, easy to clean and disinfect, and kept in good repair. They must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Keep outside bins closed and keep the bin area clean. Wash your hands after handling waste. Pedal bins are useful, because you do not have to touch the lid.

Waste must be taken away by a registered waste carrier. Cooking oil needs special care. Do not pour it into drains or sewers, because it causes blockages, bad smells and pests. Keep it separate from other waste, so that a registered waste carrier can collect it.

In England, businesses must also separate food waste from other waste. Businesses with fewer than the equivalent of 10 full-time employees must do this after 31 March 2027. The other nations have their own rules, so use the bins your workplace has set up.