Waste is generally considered hazardous if it (or the material/substances it contains) is harmful and poses a substantial threat to human health or the environment.
To ensure that hazardous waste is safely and responsibly disposed of, there are several regulations that need to be complied with. Organisations that produce over 500kg of hazardous waste must register with the Environment Agency in Wales.
There are also many household products that are considered hazardous and must comply with regulations of separation from normal waste to ensure safe disposal.
What Counts as Hazardous Waste?
Hazardous waste includes materials discarded by households or businesses that threaten human health and the environment due to their chemical or biological nature. Such hazardous wastes are toxic, flammable, or reactive. A substance is considered hazardous if it ignites easily, is corrosive materials, toxic, or reacts dangerously with other materials.
Hazardous household waste poses significant health and environmental risks, including contamination of water supplies and harm to ecosystems.
Proper disposal of hazardous waste is both a legal and moral responsibility. Improper disposal can contaminate land, air, and water, harming ecosystems and human health. Toxic materials can seep into water supplies, and flammable materials can create fire hazards. The consequences are severe, emphasising the importance of correct disposal.
Identifying the types of hazardous waste you might encounter is key to responsible disposal. Household hazardous waste includes batteries, paint, and electronics, while businesses may handle more complex wastes such as industrial chemicals and medical waste.
Other examples of hazardous waste include aerosols, brake fluid or print toner, fuel, fluorescent lights, oils e.g. car engine oil and pesticides.
Recognising the type of waste is essential for selecting the appropriate disposal method and ensuring these materials do not threaten the environment or human health.
A chemical waste may be classified as hazardous if it exhibits one or more of the following characteristics:
- Ignitability – waste that is flammable and can sustain combustion
- Corrosivity – waste that can readily corrode or dissolve materials that it meets
- Reactivity – waste that can readily explode or undergo violent reactions
- Toxicity – waste that can cause physiological damage if ingested or inhaled
Why is Hazardous Waste Important to Businesses?
Businesses bear a significant responsibility for hazardous waste disposal. Contacting an authorised firm for collection and disposal ensures compliance with regulations. The Environment Agency provides guidance on registration for business produces hazardous waste production at 03708 506 506, a necessary step for regular producers.
Engaging an authorised waste carrier such as GD Environmental is a legal requirement. Our handlers ensure hazardous waste is managed safely and in compliance with regulations.
Following these protocols helps businesses avoid legal repercussions and ensures hazardous waste does not pose a risk to human health or the environment. Proper disposal is about compliance, corporate responsibility, and community protection.
Safe Handling and Storage of Hazardous Waste
Safe handling and storage of hazardous waste and hazardous household waste are crucial to prevent accidents and environmental contamination. Proper identification, labeling, and secure storage are legally required to mitigate risks. Clear labeling of containers with hazard symbols informs handlers of contents and potential dangers.
Storing hazardous waste securely using appropriate containers prevents leaks and contamination. Alkaline materials and acidic materials should be kept in separate, clearly labeled containers to avoid dangerous reactions. Leak-proof containers are necessary for chemicals and oils, and storage areas must be secure and restricted to authorised personnel.
Proper packing involves using sturdy containers to prevent leaks and contamination. Use suitable containers, keep products in their original packaging, and ensure they are properly sealed. Following these guidelines ensures safe handling and storage of hazardous waste, protecting people and the environment with a compatible leak proof container.
Specific Hazardous Waste Items Disposal
Disposing of specific hazardous waste items and hazardous household waste requires special attention due to their unique properties. For example, fluorescent tubes must be taken to designated hazardous waste facilities because they contain mercury, a highly toxic substance. Proper disposal prevents environmental contamination and health risks.
Garden chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides, should be disposed of correctly to avoid harming the environment and human health. These chemicals can be particularly harmful if they seep into soil or water sources.
Universal waste, including items like batteries and fluorescent bulbs, contains hazardous components that require proper disposal. Following the correct disposal methods for these items significantly reduces associated risks.
Asbestos and Clinical Waste Disposal
Asbestos and clinical waste disposal require strict adherence to regulations to ensure safety. In the UK, asbestos waste must be disposed of at licensed facilities authorised for this type of waste. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 mandates that licensed contractors handle and dispose of asbestos. Records of asbestos waste disposal must be maintained for at least two years and be available for inspection.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when handling and transporting asbestos waste to prevent exposure. Asbestos waste should be double-bagged in heavy-duty plastic and labeled with warning signs. Proper precautions, such as wetting materials to minimize fibre release and careful packaging, are necessary. Local councils may impose restrictions on the amount of asbestos waste that can be disposed of without charge, so check local regulations.
Clinical waste, including medical waste, must be handled with care. Specialised waste management services ensure safe and compliant disposal, crucial for preventing infections and protecting public health.
Hazardous Waste Collections
We offer hazardous waste disposal. For more information and a list of what our disposal team services operate with, click here or call us on 01633 277 755.
Our reliable waste collection services can manage the collection of hazardous household hazardous waste collections items. Improper disposal can result in significant fines, up to £5,000. Using the correct disposal methods and services helps avoid fines and promotes a safer environment.