Brilio.net - Kitchen accidents such as broken plates can happen at any time. However, many people do not realize that the wrong way to dispose of broken plates can endanger others. Therefore, it is necessary to know the complete guide on how to dispose of broken plates safely, including tips on prevention and proper handling.
The hidden dangers of carelessly discarded broken plates .
Broken dishes are not just ordinary trash. According to data from the Emergency Medicine Journal (2022), injuries caused by broken glass and ceramics are the third most common household accidents requiring medical attention. Dr. Rachel Thompson, an occupational safety specialist from Stanford University, explains that broken dishes can remain dangerous even after months if not handled properly.
Some risks that may arise include:
- Cuts on the cleaner
- Accidents involving pets scavenging through garbage
- Environmental pollution if the fragments contain hazardous substances
- Damage to garbage bags and processing facilities
Safe steps to dispose of broken dishes.
The American Safety Council recommends specific procedures for handling household shards. Before you begin cleaning, make sure the area is safe from children and pets. Dr. James Miller of the Environmental Health Institute stresses the importance of wearing personal protective equipment when handling sharp shards.
The following steps are recommended:
1. Wear thick or padded gloves
2. Collect large pieces with tongs or a trash scoop.
3. Wrap in thick paper or cardboard
4. Mark the container with the label "CAUTION SHARP BRICKS"
5. Put it in a separate trash bag
photo: Pexels/SHVETS production
Special handling for different types of tools.
Not all glassware can be handled the same way. According to research from the Waste Management Journal (2023), different types of materials require different handling:
Ceramic and Porcelain Plates:
- Wrap in newspaper or cardboard
- Avoid mixing with wet waste
- Store in a rigid container before throwing away
Glass cup :
- Separate by glass type
- Consider recycling if possible
- Protect sharp parts with thick tape.
Crystal Equipment:
- Handle with extra care as the shards are sharper.
- Do not mix with recyclable waste
- Use a special labeled container
Prevention and long-term safety.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends several preventive measures to reduce the risk of sharps-related accidents:
- Store tools in a safe and stable place
- Use a drying rack with a rubber base.
- Separate heavy and light tools
- Check the condition of the tools regularly
- Educate family members about safe handling
Eco-Friendly Options.
Dr. Sarah Chen, a waste management expert from Berkeley University, in Environmental Science & Technology (2023) explains several more environmentally friendly disposal alternatives:
1. Special recycling program for glass and ceramics
2. Using shards for mosaic projects
3. Donate intact tools
4. Sorting of materials for special processing
Emergency actions in the event of an accident.
In the event of an accident involving sharp fragments, the American Red Cross recommends the following actions:
- Clean the wound with running water
- Make sure there are no fragments left behind.
- Apply antiseptic
- Seek medical help immediately if the wound is deep.
By following the above guidelines, you can handle and dispose of broken dishes safely, protecting yourself and others from potential harm. Remember that safety is always the top priority when handling sharps.