Unblocktober: 4 things businesses should not put down the drain

This Unblocktober, discover four things businesses should not put down the drain and how a few simple changes can help prevent costly blockages.

Unblocktober is a month-long campaign focusing on the importance of keeping our drains, sewers and waterways clear. Launched in 2019, the campaign succeeded in attracting more than 4,500 pledges to change habits in its first year. In the last three years, that figure has grown to nearly 70,000 pledges, as the threats to our waterways have come into sharper focus.

With a different focus every year, this year’s theme is Wipe Out Wet Wipes but the message goes well beyond that.

According to Unblocktober, 48% of the British public pours fats, oils and grease down the drains. Although these figures relate to individual behaviour, businesses undoubtedly have an important role to play. Blocked drains can lead to expensive repairs, disruption and, in serious cases, pollution and potential legal consequences.

So, what can businesses do to keep their drains healthy? Let’s take a look.

Fats, oils and grease

If you run a restaurant, a coffee shop, takeaway or any other food business, chances are you’re dealing with fats, oils and grease on a daily basis. The problem is that these substances are a menace when they enter the drainage system – solidifying as they cool, coating the pipes and trapping other waste until a blockage develops.

It’s important to remember that food waste should go in its own bin and, where possible and appropriate, sink strainers as well as grease-management equipment should be in place. Simple steps like scraping plates and pans before washing may sound obvious but they can make a significant difference over the course of a year.

When it comes to cooking oil, it might seem easy to just pour it down the drain but it should instead be stored securely for collection and safe disposal by your waste management company.

Food scraps and leftovers

It’s easy for small amounts of food to disappear down a sink during a busy shift, but those scraps can cause problems further along the pipework. Rice, pasta, vegetable peelings and other solid foods don’t belong in the sink. In fact, starchy and powdery foods can form a sticky, cement-like paste that clings to pipe walls and triggers stubborn blockages once mixed with water.

Wet wipes and sanitary products

Wet wipes are a core theme of this year’s Unblocktober for good reason. It is reported that 48% of the British public have flushed wet wipes down the toilet – items that do not break down readily in water and are not ”flushable”. While a ban on wet wipes comes into effect on 19th May 2027, this alone won’t be enough to stop sewer blockages. Every business has a responsibility to have sanitary waste bins and appropriate sanitary waste collection in place.

Chemical paints and solvents

Chemicals, paints and solvents are classified as hazardous waste and require specialist commercial hazardous waste disposal and collection. This is especially relevant for businesses such as cleaning operations, workshops, manufacturers, salons, healthcare and clinical facilities, garages and more.

Some businesses can produce hazardous waste without realising, so it’s important to check and ensure that safe collection and disposal is in place.

How businesses can prevent drain blockages?

Preventing blockages starts with awareness and training of staff so that everyone within the business premises knows what can and can’t go down the drain. It’s equally as important to have the right bins in place as they make it easier to adhere to new habits. Lastly, keeping on top of your drain inspection and pipe cleaning can go a long way – as this not only protects the environment but also prevents expensive repairs in the future.

Doing the right thing is easy when working with trustworthy business water suppliers. At Everflow, your business can compare business water prices, ensuring you get the most competitive rate and work with a provider who genuinely cares about the environment long after Unblocktober is over.

Contact Everflow today!

Our goal at Everflow is to make your utilities simpler, and water is no exception. We work with businesses of all sizes, across many industries and locations, so you get a flexible water service tailored to your needs. Get a bespoke water quote using the link below.

Get a water quote