The proper storage of used cooking oil for recycling is a challenge for food service businesses. Recycling used cooking oil is one of the most important, effective steps businesses can take for the environment and a more sustainable future. Used cooking oil collection services are available to pick up the oil directly from food service businesses, which eliminates the hassle of transporting to a recycling facility. But, the question remains of how to properly and safely store the used cooking oil between pickups.
Why Properly Storing Used Cooking Oil Matters
Used cooking oil is a highly valuable resource, but only if it’s recycled properly. It isn’t just what happens after the cooking oil is collected that matters. How the used oil is stored beforehand has an important impact, too.
When not stored properly, used cooking oil becomes hazardous waste that poses a risk to the environment and human health. Improper storage can become contaminated with other waste materials, especially if it’s left uncovered. This creates significant challenges with the recycling process, and in some cases, the oil may not be able to be recycled at all. Not properly storing used cooking oil can also result in violations with health departments and local regulations.
One of the biggest risks of improperly stored used cooking oil is the safety risk it presents to staff, outside workers that enter the business, and potentially customers. Improper storage of cooking oil can lead to fires, slips, and falls. The simple process of storing oil in a safe and secure manner can prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment for everyone.
There are also health risks associated with improperly stored used cooking oil. Used cooking oil that is stored in unsealed or unsuitable containers will eventually begin to give off unpleasant odors. This is not only unpleasant for workers, but guests are sure to be put off by it as well. Improper storage also increases the risk of attracting pests, which is something that no food service business wants.
Storing Used Cooking Oil Outside
For many food service operations, the best place to store used cooking oil is outside. Outside containers eliminate many of the safety issues of storing the used cooking oil inside. The risk of spills in heavy foot traffic areas is reduced, and there’s no risk of foul smells infiltrating the kitchen or customer areas.
Outside storage also makes it easy for cooking oil recycling services to collect the oil with minimal disruption to business operations. In most cases, a truck pulls up to the tanks, sucks the oil out, and then goes on their way. When used cooking oil is stored inside, it requires the service person to come into the kitchen where employees are hard at work and not in need of added distractions.
One area of concern with outside storage containers is the risk of attracting pests. This is something that can happen if the area and tanks are not kept clean and sealed properly. When properly cared for and maintained, an outdoor cooking oil storage tank should not attract unwanted guests from nature.
Best Practices for Storing Used Cooking Oil in Commercial Kitchens
There are a few simple steps that foodservice kitchens can follow to ensure the safe and responsible storage of used cooking oil.
Use the Correct Container: The best container for storing used cooking oil is one that is made of durable material, with a capacity that is large enough to meet your needs between cooking oil pickups. Leakproof with an airtight lid is also essential.
Label for Safety: Make sure the container is clearly labeled, noting its contents. This should include the type of oil, the date the first deposit went into the container, and any additional safety information.
Keep It Clean: Keep the outside of the container clean and free of any spills or residue on the sides or the lid. Spillage is common, but an accumulation of residue can create an environment primed for bacterial growth and unpleasant odor. Oil should be strained to remove any residue and debris before placing it into the container.
Location: Choose a location that is away from drains and water sources to prevent potential contamination and to prevent plumbing. Keep collected cooking oil from heat sources and areas of high traffic.
Check for Rancidity: It’s best to have a set schedule for used cooking oil pickup so that the oil doesn’t accumulate for long periods of time. Used cooking oil can go rancid quickly. Check the oil occasionally and if you’re concerned, contact your cooking oil collection service for advice.
Prepare for Pickup: When it’s time for pickup, make sure the container is clean, has a tight-fitting lid and is clearly labeled. If necessary, move the containers to a place that is easily accessible for the recycling service.
Additional Tips for Effective Recycling
Here are a few additional tips to make life easier when collecting and storing used cooking oil in food service kitchens.
Avoid Mixing Cooking Oils: For food service kitchens that use multiple types of cooking oil, make sure to keep them in separate containers for easy pickup or disposal.
Schedule Regular Pickups: Your used cooking oil collection service will work with you to schedule regular pickups that work for your business.
Training and Education: If you’re managing a food service kitchen, ensure that all staff are trained on how to properly store used cooking oil and keep both the container and the area clean. It’s also a smart idea to educate staff on the importance of recycling cooking oil, how it’s processed into biofuel and the benefits of used cooking oil recycling for the environment and sustainable future.
Important Safety Precautions
It’s important to keep safety in mind when handling and storing used cooking oil. Taking safety precautions is important for preventing accidents and injuries for workers, as well as avoiding kitchen downtime.
The first rule of safety is to not handle hot cooking oil. Let it cool to a point that it can be handled without risk of burning. It’s also a good idea to provide staff with protective gear to wear when handling used cooking oil. Safety glasses, face masks, and gloves can help protect the skin, face, and eyes from oil splashes. Used cooking oil, even when cooled, contains debris and contaminants that cause infections.
Second, keep the area clean. Spilled oil is a high risk for accidents and injuries. Ensure that the flooring and equipment near the areas where used cooking oil is transferred and stored is kept clean of spilled oil. Even small spills can be dangerous.
Speaking of keeping the area clean, it’s important to have a spill response plan in place. Train workers on how to clean up oil spills, while reinforcing the urgency of cleaning it quickly.
Let Us Help You Find the Right Storage Solution for Used Cooking Oil
The proper storage of used cooking oil is essential for safety, cleanliness, and responsible waste management. By following the best practices and safety precautions, commercial food service kitchens can make used cooking oil storage something that is effortless and that only positively impacts their business.
Recycling used cooking oil is an important step toward reducing waste, protecting the environment, and supporting a more sustainable future by conserving natural resources. Food service business has a strong role in creating cleaner, more sustainable communities.
At NW Biofuel, we’re here to be your partner in this. We offer used cooking oil collection services. We start by setting you up with the right size storage container that is designed specifically for cooking oil collection. Then, we decide on a collection schedule that best meets your needs.
Contact us at NW Biofuel today to learn more.