Secure Document Destruction: Beyond Shredders

TL;DR

Got a lot of paper to destroy securely? Standard shredders aren’t always the best option for large volumes or high security. This guide covers alternatives, from pulping and burning (with safety warnings!) to professional services.

Secure Document Destruction: Alternatives to Shredding

1. Assess Your Security Needs
• Low Sensitivity: Basic personal info like junk mail. Simple methods are fine.
• Medium Sensitivity: Bank statements, bills, medical records. Requires more thorough destruction.
• High Sensitivity: Legal documents, financial contracts, anything with personally identifiable information (PII). Professional services are recommended.
2. Pulping Documents

Turning paper into a slurry is very effective. It’s messy but secure.

• Method: Soak the documents in water for an extended period (several hours, ideally overnight). Then use a blender or dedicated pulping machine to break them down completely.
• Safety: Be careful with blenders – don’t overload them! Dispose of the pulp responsibly; it can clog drains.
3. Burning Documents (With Extreme Caution)

This is effective but carries significant risks and may be illegal in some areas. Check local regulations before attempting this.

• Safety First:
  • Only burn outdoors, in a controlled environment (e.g., a fire pit).
  • Keep water and a shovel nearby.
  • Never leave the fire unattended.
  • Ensure there’s no wind that could spread embers.
• Complete Combustion: Ensure all paper is reduced to ash. Stir frequently to ensure thorough burning.
• Legal Considerations: Many areas have restrictions on open burning. Fines can be substantial.
4. Chemical Dissolution (Not Recommended for Most)

Using chemicals like sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) to dissolve paper is effective but extremely dangerous and requires specialist knowledge and equipment. We strongly advise against this unless you are a trained chemist.

5. Professional Document Destruction Services

The safest and most reliable option, especially for large volumes or sensitive data.

• Secure Collection: They provide secure containers for your documents.
• NAID Certification: Look for companies certified by the National Association of Information Destruction (NAID). This ensures they follow strict security protocols.
• Cost: Prices vary depending on volume and level of security required. Get quotes from multiple providers.
6. Recycling with a Secure Partner

Some recycling companies offer secure document destruction as part of their service.

• Verification: Ensure they provide a certificate of destruction.
• Chain of Custody: Understand how your documents are handled from collection to final disposal.
7. Cross-Cut vs Strip-Cut Shredders (If you must shred)

If you’re sticking with a shredder, cross-cut is far superior to strip-cut.

• Strip-Cut: Cuts paper into long strips. Easily reassembled.
• Cross-Cut: Cuts paper into tiny pieces. Much harder to reconstruct.