When should you conduct a waste audit for right sizing?

Conducting a waste audit for right sizing is most effectively done when bins are full, typically early in the morning. This timing allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the types and amounts of waste generated when the facility is at its most active. The rationale behind this choice is that a full bin provides a clear representation of the waste generated over a complete period, reflecting the actual volume and composition of waste produced during high-traffic times.

By assessing the contents of full bins, one can identify patterns that inform decisions on the size and number of containers needed. Conducting the audit in the morning, right after bins have been emptied, can help ensure that you are observing waste generated by a full cycle of activity, allowing for effective planning to optimize waste management efforts.

The other timing options generally fall short in providing the most accurate data required for right sizing waste containers. For instance, conducting audits during off-peak hours may not reflect the full spectrum of waste generated when operations are at their peak. Similarly, evaluating bins at busy times without checking for fullness may lead to misleading conclusions about waste generation rates. Random audits can lack the consistency needed for a thorough analysis, potentially missing critical patterns that emerge from full bins during peak activity times.