Preparing A Hazardous Waste Management Plan
Published September 2013
HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT & CHEMICAL CLEANUP RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES
There are a few obstacles to overcome when safely handling and disposing special waste and preparing a hazardous waste management plan. Aside from the obvious health risks, hazardous waste generators must also be aware of concerns that range from handling and storage to transportation and recycling. This article will help you understand what aspects to consider when deciding on a plan of action to dispose of your business’s special waste, including when to consult a certified Hazardous Waste Recycler.
Chemicals that are not frequently used often accumulate and are overlooked when it comes re recycling on a regular basis. These can be small bottles of miscellaneous chemicals, expired products, aerosols, or even cans of old paint. If you have ever generated any of these things you will remember that finding a recycling outlet can be difficult. Items like these not only tend to collect in our personal basements, but in the storage closets and cabinets at businesses as well. You must be aware that most chemicals, solvents, or any oil based waste are considered Hazardous Waste by the EPA. Your normal garbage company will not take these, so finding a safe and legal disposal method will be up to you.
WHAT HAZARDOUS WASTES MIGHT I HAVE?
The chemical items we previously mentioned are classified as Hazardous Waste for a reason. Exposure to these chemicals or products could be detrimental to the environment and the health of others. Be sure you are properly trained before handling any hazardous waste. While most businesses have minimal needs for chemical clean outs, there are a few industries where this service is practical and necessary:
- Manufacturers – Expired products, maintenance chemicals, vendor samples, process wastes, spill waste
- Educational Institutions – Research waste, lab waste, cleaners, maintenance chemicals, science department chemicals
- Property Management – Expired products, old paint, expired cleaners, abandoned miscellaneous waste
- The Top 40 Chemical Offenders
STORING & HANDLING HAZARDOUS WASTES THE IN WORKPLACE
The easiest way to find information on any chemical you come across is by referencing its Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). An MSDS is required to be provided with any potentially dangerous product. Every MSDS provides the following information:
- Supplier Information (manufacturer of the product)
- Hazardous Ingredients
- Physical and Chemical Characteristics
- Fire and Explosion Hazard data
- Reactivity Data
- Health Hazards
- Safe Handling Precautions
- Control Measures
There are multiple databases on line where you can look up the MSDS if you do not have a physical copy. The Material Safety Data sheet will be the first request from any Hazardous Waste Recycler. Download our
Having the proper paperwork is only useful if your employees are aware of it. Anyone who deals with hazardous chemicals or materials should know of their whereabouts. Store these documents in a convenient location so any employee can reference them if need be. Information is the most important tool when it comes to storing and handling your waste. Train employees on the proper safety procedures when using each waste. When it comes to accidents involving Hazardous waste, education is always the best prevention.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICE?
Disposing of Hazardous Waste is a time consuming, detail oriented process. Many of the chemicals listed above are not common recycling items. If you are unfamiliar with the chemicals you need recycled, it is likely that you are unfamiliar with the handling, packaging, and transportation regulations to dispose them. Also, if cleaning out your old chemicals is a rare occurrence, there could be a multitude of different wastes. Due to the potential risks, all Hazardous Wastes must be legally documented, packaged, and transported according to the Department of Transportation. This can be an overwhelming undertaking for the inexperienced.
Consulting a reputable Hazardous Waste Recycler is a simple solution. Experts will come on site and identify, sort, and take a detailed inventory of all of you Hazardous waste. They provide the required shipping documents, packaging, and labeling for each item. Their service does not stop there. After the necessary preparation, your waste is transported to vetted, licensed, and audited end facilities. Keep in mind: generators have “Cradle to Grave” responsibility for their Hazardous wastes, so having a trusted waste handling partner is important. Under the CERCLA legislation, even after you have paid for proper disposal you are liable for a cleanup. A Hazardous Waste Handler will ensure all end facilities are a trusted, proven outlet for all wastes.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Generators are legally responsible for their Hazardous Waste. It is crucial that you seek out a reputable Hazardous Waste Recycler when you are liable for any malpractice. Do some research. There are some credentials that you should look for when searching for this service:
- Your Hazardous Waste Recycler should have a valid EPA ID number.
- They should have at least a satisfactory rating from the Department of Transportation.
- A clean record when it comes to inspections is a must.
- Recyclers that do not comply with the laws are shut down instantly.
A Hazardous Waste Recycler’s reputation in this industry is invaluable. Full disclosure should be the selling point. Check what companies are registered locally when seeking out a professional service. The right Hazardous Waste Recycler can provide all of the necessary knowledge to properly dispose of your waste. Most importantly, they can provide peace of mind.