Have you ever been knee-deep in paperwork, and the sheer volume of it makes you want to throw your hands up and scream, “Can’t I just burn this and be done with it?” It’s really tempting, especially when burning seems a quick and efficient way to get rid of sensitive information fast.
The quick answer to this burning question is simple: just because you can technically burn documents doesn’t mean you should. Are you prepared to tackle the security risks, the time it realistically takes to collect the documents and destroy them, or any of the risks associated with starting a fire? It’s really not worth the hassle when you could just leave it to the professionals.
Every single document tells a story about your business. It deserves an end worthy of the value it holds and the potential risk it poses. Before you start burning your documents in frustration, let’s explore some reasons why it’s in your best interest to get them shredded instead.
The Cost Of Saving Money By Burning Documents
We all like to save money, but in our experience, DIY ends up costing more in the long run. Time is money, and everything seems easier until we actually have to do it. How many times have you started a project that began with the words “I could do that myself!” and realized mid-way through that you could, but you really don’t want to or shouldn’t?
The majority of the time, when you decide to take the DIY route to save money, the cost you cut comes right out of the quality. If you get something done right the first time, you don’t need to spend more to fix a mistake. There’s a reason professional services exist, and when we only have so much time in the day, it doesn’t make sense to do it ourselves.
A professional shredding service will collect your documents, shred them (you can even witness this part), dispose of the material, and keep you compliant. There are even scheduled shredding services specifically created to collect and dispose of your documents on a regular basis.
Time Wasted To Burn Documents
Burning documents may seem quick and easy, but the reality is it takes time to collect all the documents, build and maintain a fire, and then properly dispose of the remaining ashes. It can be messy and time-consuming. Plus, burning documents is not a practical solution for large quantities of paperwork.
The time and effort you spend on burning could be invested far better elsewhere. Your resources should be allocated to growing your business, not tending to makeshift bonfires.
Security Risks Of Burning Documents
When you are watching documents burn with your own eyes, it seems secure, but what happens to the ashes? Where do they end up? You could miss a file or end up with pieces that only got half burned. Even if all traces of the documents are gone, your business may not be able to prove that it is compliant and was destroyed in a way that meets all the legal requirements required.
Security Benefits Of Shredding
Using a shredding service goes beyond getting rid of papers. Professional shredding services guarantee that you comply with strict compliance laws and regulations that govern how businesses handle data. You see, a legal need and a guarantee of true destruction are what paper-burning cannot deliver.
Certifications Matter: NAID AAA Certification means that a shredding service meets and exceeds industry standards when it comes to securely disposing of documents.
Certificate of Destruction: A reputable shredding service provides a Certificate of Destruction, so in case of an audit, you have legal proof that your sensitive data was responsibly handled.
Environmental Impact Of Burning Documents
Burning documents release harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to air pollution and potentially causing health issues for those in the surrounding area. Not only that, but it also adds unnecessary carbon emissions to our already fragile environment.
Environmental Impact Of Shredding
We have a planet to protect, and it turns out shredding can save more than your data. The environmental impact of shredding versus burning is staggering.
Recycling vs. Landfill: Shredding services often recycle the remnants of your documents, setting a chain of eco-responsibility in motion that burning can never replicate.
Clean Air, Clear Conscience: Burning documents releases harmful emissions into the atmosphere, from dioxins to particulate matter. In contrast, a good shredding service leaves nothing but environmental goodwill in its wake.
The Legality Of Starting Fires
Depending on where you live, burning documents may be illegal. Countries, states, cities, and townships all have varying laws and regulations on open burning, so it’s important to check with your local authorities before starting any fires. In some cases, you may need a permit or specific equipment to burn documents legally.
Even if it is legal, it’s still not necessarily safe. Document burning can easily get out of control and pose a risk to nearby buildings or homes. It’s not worth the risk of causing property damage or endangering others.
Legal Considerations For Shredding
Shredding documents is not only safe and legal, but it also helps you comply with data protection laws. By shredding documents, you are ensuring that sensitive information does not fall into the wrong hands, protecting your business from potential legal consequences.
Put Down The Lighter And Pick Up The Phone
Can you burn documents? You can, but now you know why that’s not the best solution to disposing of sensitive information; it ultimately comes with more risks and drawbacks than benefits. Instead, consider using a professional shredding service that can guarantee secure and responsible destruction of your documents. Not only will you save time and money in the long run, but you’ll also be protecting the environment and complying with legal regulations.
So, put down the lighter and pick up the phone to schedule your next shredding service. Your business and the planet will thank you for it. Contact us today for document shredding services in the Columbus and Cincinnati area to start shredding with the most secure option for your documents.
