A Brief Look at Radioactive Waste
Berks Transfer
July 2, 2025
Since 2002, Berks Transfer has been hauling and disposing trash across Eastern Pennsylvania. We are required to know everything about all different types of trash/waste, including municipal solid waste, construction or demolition debris, solid residual waste, and radioactive waste (also known as nuclear waste). Did you know radioactive waste accounts for only 5% of the total hazardous waste in the United States?
Radioactive Waste is material that is radioactive or contaminated with radionuclides. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radioactive waste is generated by the production or use of radioactive materials, which are found in paper, rags, plastic bags, or protective clothing that have come into contact with radioactive materials such as Uranium and Thorium. Mining, nuclear power generation, government, medicine, and certain types of scientific research are just a few of the sectors that utilize this type of waste.
What is Radioactive Waste?
There are five general categories of radioactive waste. Those include: High-level waste, Transuranic waste, Uranium mill tailings, Thorium mill tailings, and Low-level waste. High-level waste is nuclear, Transuranic is atomic number 92 (also known as uranium or higher), includes Uranium and Thorium levels that remain after mining or milling of uranium or thorium ore, and Low-level waste is lower than high-level, transuranic, and uranium and thorium waste.
How is it stored?
The U.S. NRC states that all U.S. nuclear power plants store their spent nuclear fuel in “spent fuel pools”. These are made of reinforced concrete that is several feet thick, with steel liners. If these containers reach capacity, the older spent fuel will be moved into “dry cask” storage. Dry cask storages are made of stainless steel canisters surrounded by concrete.
At power plants, the spent fuel storage is only temporary on the sites. The spent fuel is eventually disposed of, or it can be recycled and reused. There is still a significant portion of energy in the spent fuel that was unused. Power plants can reprocess the spent fuel and extract valuable materials like uranium and plutonium for new fuel.
What Can the Public Do?
There are only two things that you can do: Be aware and stay away. EPA states that if you are near a facility that manages radioactive waste, you must follow safety instructions, which are to keep a distance from it; be aware of it; and do not ever touch, inhale, or ingest it. Radioactive waste (or nuclear waste) is very hazardous and needs to be taken very seriously. By following the safety instructions(e.g., being aware), you take away the risk of either harming yourself or others.
Berks Transfer & Non-Hazardous Waste
Here at Berks Transfer, we do not take any type of hazardous waste. We do, however, take non-hazardous waste such as construction debris, cabinets, toys, clothes, etc. If you are looking for help with home renovations, office cleanouts, construction or demolition projects, or storm and fire damage cleanup, we have different-sized dumpsters that can help with your needs.
If dumpsters aren’t the best option for you, then try our do-it-yourself service. We offer quick, efficient, and professional service that helps get back your valuable space. Just bring your unwanted items to our facility, and we will handle the rest. At Berks Transfer, while we do not take any type of hazardous waste, we do make disposing of non-hazardous waste efficient and safe.
Source: Detroit Free Press
Waste management is a critical component of environmental sustainability, public health, and regulatory compliance. Among the many techniques used to treat and handle waste, solidification has emerged as a highly effective method for managing non-hazardous materials. But what exactly is solidification, and why is it so important in waste treatment? In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the solidification process in waste management, explore its benefits, and environmental professionals are increasingly turning to this method to handle complex waste streams. What Is Solidification in Waste Management? Solidification is a physical process used to convert liquid or semi-liquid waste into a solid, stable mass. The goal is not necessarily to detoxify the waste, but to reduce its mobility, prevent leaching, and make it safer to handle, transport and dispose. This is typically achieved by adding binding agents such as cement, lime, fly ash, or proprietary chemical blends that interact with the waste material, forming a solid matrix. It’s important to manage the moisture to achieve the right consistency. Also, the final product must remain stable over time without significant swelling or shrinking. Common types of liquid waste that are solidified include brine waste, car wash cleanout, catch basin grit, grease trap waste, process sludges and tank cleanouts. At our transfer station, common liquid wastes include drainage water, oily wastewater, and ground water. Benefits of Solidification in Waste Management Implementing solidification offers several critical advantages: 1. Minimizes Environmental Risk By immobilizing hazardous constituents, solidification prevents contaminants from leaching into groundwater or escaping into the air. This is especially vital when dealing with heavy metals, sludges, or industrial byproducts. 2. Enhances Safety in Handling Solid waste is generally safer and easier to handle than liquid or semi-liquid waste. It’s less likely to spill, splash, or react with surrounding materials. 3. Improves Waste Disposal Options Solidified waste can often be disposed of in approved landfills, particularly non-hazardous landfills if the solidification process sufficiently stabilizes the material and meets regulatory standards. Once solidified, our team transports the solid waste to an approved landfill. 4. Cost-Effective Solution Solidification can reduce transportation and disposal costs by converting bulky or difficult-to-manage waste into a more compact and manageable form. Regulatory Compliance and Standards Solidification must meet local, state, and federal regulations—particularly EPA guidelines for hazardous waste treatment. Tests like the TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) are used to determine if the treated waste can be classified as non-hazardous. At Berks Transfer, a certified employee tests the materials before they are emptied into one of our three 12,000-gallon solidification pits to ensure they are safe to be solidified and compliant. As the pressure to manage waste safely and sustainably grows, solidification continues to prove itself as a practical and powerful method in the waste management toolkit. It provides a cost-effective, compliant, and environmentally responsible path forward. At Berks Transfer, you can count on safe, affordable solidification of non-hazardous waste, and we prepare it for transportation and disposal. Contact us today to learn more!
Berks Transfer proudly attended the Home Building Association of Berks County 's Home Run Building and Trade Expo held at the Redner's Center in FirstEnergy Stadium, Reading, PA, from March 14-16th. This year’s event proved to be a fantastic opportunity for local businesses, contractors, and homeowners alike to gather valuable insights and make meaningful connections within the home improvement industry. A Star-Studded Event with Dr. Lori One of the highlights of the expo was the presence of Dr. Lori, the renowned antiques appraiser from The Curse of Oak Island on the History Channel . Dr. Lori also stars in the brand-new Pawn Stars Do America series and Netflix's The King of Collectables. Attendees had the unique opportunity to hear Dr. Lori share her expert insights on collectibles, adding a touch of excitement and expertise to the event. Her engaging presentation was a real draw for many of the attendees who are passionate about antiques and historical treasures. Berks Transfer Educates Attendees on the Benefits of Dumpster Rentals Bill Piszczek from Berks Transfer and Empire Group ’s Ellen Ganime were at the expo to provide valuable information on the many benefits of renting dumpsters for home improvement projects as well as the other services offered. Whether it’s a major renovation or a simple spring cleaning, Berks Transfer offers convenient dumpster rental solutions to help homeowners and contractors manage waste efficiently. With a variety of dumpster sizes and flexible rental options, Berks Transfer stands as a trusted local resource for waste management services in Berks County. Exciting Giveaways and Vendor Showcase In addition to informative presentations, the event featured a vibrant vendor showcase. From landscaping services to window installation, numerous local businesses displayed their products and services to attendees. The show was an excellent opportunity to explore a wide range of services that can enhance any home improvement or construction project. The excitement didn’t stop there. The winner of the Empire Group swag bag was Duane Bialek from ABBI Co., Inc., an electrical contractor from Reading, PA. The bag contained a 20% rental voucher, an Empire Group hoodie, a Berks Transfer t-shirt as well as other shirts and items from Empire Group and its affiliates. Congratulations Duane! Looking Ahead: The Future of Home Building and Renovation The Home Run Building and Trade Expo was a tremendous success, and Berks Transfer is proud to have been a part of it. This event provided valuable opportunities for local businesses to connect with their communities and showcase the latest services and solutions in the home building and renovation industry. Berks Transfer remains committed to offering top-notch dumpster rental services for any size project, making waste disposal simple and efficient for everyone. We look forward to next year's expo!
When it comes to construction and landscaping, finding materials that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly can be a challenge. And there are a lot of products on the market. But there’s one material that checks all the boxes: crushed concrete.
As fall approaches, employees of Empire Group eagerly look forward to the Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic—and this year certainly delivered! Held on Saturday, October 12th, at the scenic farm of Todd and Karen O’Neill, the event was a tremendous success.
It was a special year for Northern Berk County National Night Out! The event was held at a new venue – the Berks County Fairgrounds in Leesport. Each vendor had plenty of space for their vehicles and tables, a welcome change from last year's crowded setup at Schuylkill Valley High School. A New Gathering It was exciting to see employees from DVC, Empire Group, and Berks Transfer all together at the event. DVC's Russ Oswalt and Jimmy Blatt, along with Empire Group’s Ellen Ganime and Berks Transfer’s Karen O'Neill, Lauren Bohning, and Mitzi Cote, distributed fun giveaways, including police SUV stress relievers, small toys, bracelets, sunglasses, and snacks. Despite the cloudy weather and a rescheduled date, everyone had a great time. National Night Out: A Nationwide Celebration National Night Out takes place on the first Tuesday of August in most states, with some opting for an October date. Founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who also established the National Association of Town Watch, this event has grown significantly over the past 40 years. It fosters connections between police departments and communities through activities, music, and food. Last year, nearly 40 million people attended National Night Out events across nearly 20,000 communitie s from all 50 states. An Exciting Vendor Lineup The Berks County Fairgrounds showcased 80 vendors this year, and we anticipate even more participation next year. Empire Group was proud to be among a diverse group of vendors, including local businesses, first responders, and non-profit organizations. The variety was impressive, featuring everything from insurance companies to car dealerships, and healthcare providers to restaurants. New vendors like Spitler’s Towing, HNL Lab Medicine, and Blinds To Go added to the fun atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed delicious food options, from pizza to popcorn, while engaging in games and exploring a variety of vehicles, including a Tesla Cybertruck and two helicopters. A Spectacular Ending DVC showcased their tri-axle dump truck, while Berks Transfer displayed their roll-off truck with a dumpster. The evening concluded with brilliant fireworks, leaving everyone in high spirits. At Empire Group , we search for ways to enrich our community. Like National Night Out, we strive to connect with our neighbors. Our employees had a blast at the event and look forward to National Night Out 2025. We hope to see you next year!
Rust and Corrosion One of the most persistent weather-related issues for dumpsters is rust and corrosion. Made primarily of steel, dumpsters are vulnerable to oxidation when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Rain, snow, and high humidity can accelerate rust formation, compromising the dumpster's structural integrity and potentially leading to leaks or collapse. Heat and Moisture Dumpsters often contain organic waste that can produce unpleasant odors when exposed to heat and moisture. High temperatures and humidity, common during summer, can speed up the decomposition of organic matter, intensifying odors and fostering mold and bacteria growth, which poses health risks. Also, dumpsters sitting in hot temperatures can elevate the surface temperature and may cause burns. Snow and Ice In the northeast, snow and ice present specific challenges for dumpsters. Accumulated snow and ice can block access to dumpsters and strain their structure, potentially causing damage. When filled with snow and/or ice, the inside of a dumpster may need to cleared. Extreme Weather Conditions Heavy rain and severe storms can disrupt dumpster usage and waste management operations. Rainwater can fill dumpsters, making them heavier and more difficult to empty. Strong winds can knock over or move dumpsters, creating safety hazards and littering the surrounding area with waste. Hurricanes and Dumpsters Hurricanes, with their powerful winds and heavy rainfall, can cause significant damage to dumpsters. The impacts of hurricanes include: Severe Physical Damage: High winds can overturn, crush, or displace dumpsters, leading to potential structural damage and creating hazards. Flooding: Heavy rainfall can cause floodwaters to fill dumpsters, making them heavier and harder to manage. Safety Hazards: Displaced or damaged dumpsters can obstruct access and create debris risks. Weather, including hurricanes, plays a significant role in the condition and functionality of dumpsters. From rust and corrosion to operational disruptions and severe physical damage, understanding these impacts and implementing proactive measures is essential for maintaining dumpster effectiveness and safety. At Berks Transfer, we strive to make sure our dumpsters are in top shape for your project -- no matter the time of year!
Source: macktrucks.com
Credit: Collectorsweekly.com
As we observe National Safety Month , it's crucial to shine a light on safety measures in all aspects of our lives, including often overlooked areas like waste management. Dumpsters, ubiquitous in both residential and commercial settings, can present significant safety hazards if not approached with caution. During National Safety Month, let's take a look at some safety tips and precautions to ensure your interactions with dumpsters are accident-free. 1. Proper Loading Techniques: When loading items into a dumpster, it's essential to follow proper techniques to prevent injuries. Always lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid strains or muscle injuries. Be mindful of the weight and size of objects you're lifting, and never overload the dumpster beyond its capacity. Distribute weight evenly to prevent the dumpster from tipping over. 2. Watch Your Step: Dumpster areas can be littered with debris, liquids, or other hazards, making slips, trips, and falls common occurrences. Always watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings when walking near dumpsters. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with slip-resistant soles to reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, ensure proper lighting around dumpster areas, especially during nighttime operations. 3. Keep Children and Pets Away: Dumpsters may seem like intriguing places for exploration to children and pets, but they pose significant dangers. Ensure that dumpster areas are securely fenced or gated to prevent unauthorized access. Educate children about the potential hazards of playing near dumpsters, including sharp objects, toxic substances, and heavy machinery. 4. Be Aware of Hazardous Materials: Dumpsters can contain various hazardous materials, including sharp objects, broken glass, and chemicals. Always use caution when handling or disposing of such materials to prevent injuries or exposure to harmful substances. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles, when dealing with potentially hazardous waste. 5. Secure Dumpster Placement: Improperly placed or unsecured dumpsters can pose risks to both property and individuals. Ensure that dumpsters are placed on level ground and adequately supported to prevent tipping or rolling. Use wheel chocks or other stabilizing devices if necessary, especially on sloped surfaces. Additionally, secure dumpsters with locks or barriers to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. 6. Maintain Clear Access: Always maintain clear access to dumpsters to facilitate safe loading and unloading operations. Avoid parking vehicles or placing obstacles in front of dumpsters, as this can impede access for waste disposal trucks and personnel. Keep surrounding areas free of clutter to prevent tripping hazards and ensure easy maneuverability. While dumpsters play a vital role in waste management, they can also pose significant safety risks if not handled properly. By following these safety tips, you can minimize the chances of accidents and injuries associated with dumpsters. Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or construction professional, prioritizing safety around dumpsters is essential for protecting yourself, your property, and the environment.
