The Risks of DIY Document Shredding

In 2024, the disposal of sensitive documents remains a critical concern for individuals and businesses alike, and with the rise of identity theft and fraud, ensuring the complete and secure destruction of confidential paperwork is more crucial than ever.

While the convenience and perceived cost-saving benefits of DIY document shredding might be tempting, this method carries significant risks that could jeopardise personal privacy and corporate integrity. Here, we delve into the pitfalls of DIY document shredding and discuss why it’s always advisable to opt for a professional document disposal service.

Incomplete Destruction

One of the main risks of DIY document shredding is the potential for incomplete destruction. Regular shredders typically cut paper into strips, which can sometimes be reassembled.

Professional shredding companies such as Microform use commercial-grade shredders that make it virtually impossible to reconstruct the documents.

Increased Risk of Data Breaches

Handling sensitive documents in-house without the proper protocols can lead to an increased risk of data breaches. Employees might not follow strict guidelines for document destruction, leaving confidential information exposed.

In contrast, professional shredding companies adhere to stringent security standards, ensuring that your documents are destroyed in a secure and compliant manner.

Time and Resource Allocation

DIY shredding requires a significant allocation of time and resources that could be better utilised elsewhere. The process involves not only the physical act of shredding but also the management and maintenance of the shredding equipment. For businesses, this can translate into wasted employee hours and increased operational costs.

Professional shredding services, on the other hand, allow organisations to reallocate their resources more efficiently, focusing on core business activities while leaving document destruction to the experts.

Environmental Concerns

Proper disposal of shredded paper is another aspect that is often overlooked in DIY shredding. While some shredded paper can be recycled, the shorter fibres resulting from shredding can make it more difficult to recycle, leading to increased environmental waste.

Professional document disposal services are equipped to handle shredded materials more effectively, ensuring that your documents are disposed of in an eco-friendly manner.

Legal and Compliance Issues

Many industries in the UK are governed by strict regulations regarding the handling and destruction of sensitive information. DIY shredding practices may not always meet these legal standards, potentially exposing businesses to legal penalties and reputational damage.

Professional shredding services are knowledgeable about these regulations and ensure that document destruction complies with all legal requirements, providing peace of mind and protection against compliance-related issues.

At Miroform, all files are shredded using an industrial shredder and a certificate of destruction is produced for your records. Following this process, they are compacted and sent for recycling within secure facilities.

If you’d like to find out more about our document disposal services, get in touch with the team today.