We might assume that confidential waste relates solely to items such as medical records and bank statements. However, there are a whole host of other documents that also fall into this category. We may not even be aware that some items are confidential, and as a result, we may be breaking the law by not disposing of them correctly.
Confidential documents
Any document that contains personally identifying information is classed as confidential. Personal identifying information includes name, address, contact number or financial information. Documents which could show this information include invoices, medical records, payslips, emails, and bank statements. Failure to dispose of these correctly could be an offence, with fines and even imprisonment as a consequence.
Under the Data Protection Act, businesses must ensure that a responsible person or company is destroying confidential waste in a secure way. Even individuals are responsible for destroying sensitive data from their own households.
Shredding paper documents is the most common and cost-effective way of dealing with confidential paperwork. You can hire a company specialising in confidential waste disposal Swindon, who will collect the paperwork from you and ensure that it is shredded correctly.
Waste management companies
A specialist company dealing with confidential waste disposal Swindon and other areas across the UK can take the stress out of ensuring that you comply with the regulations. This can save you time and offer you the reassurance that the job has been done correctly.
Such experts in confidential waste disposal can assist with shredding paper waste, destroying media and hard drives, and disposing of branding to keep the integrity of your business intact. Always ensure that the waste disposal company that you use has been appropriately vetted and holds all the required authorisation to deal with sensitive data.
Ensure that you, your business, and your staff do not fall victim to the harsh consequences of failing to comply with the statutory regulations surrounding confidential waste. Identify what documents or digital items you have in your possession and plan for when the time comes to dispose of and destroy them.
