Types of Hazardous Waste To identify hazardous waste, you must first understand its characteristics, source, and Types of Hazardous Waste. Next, you need to know how to dispose of it. This article will focus on different hazardous waste types, characteristics, and sources. You will also learn about these materials’ different treatments and disposal options. Then, you can choose the best one for you. Please click here
Types of Hazardous Waste: Characteristics Hazardous waste has several distinct characteristics. They include:
reactivity,
toxicity,
flammability, and
corrosiveness.
In the UK, hazardous waste is classified based on the type of hazard it poses. The classification system is based on the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) codes and the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005. The regulations define hazardous waste as waste that has one or more of the following properties:
Explosive: Waste that can cause an explosion or other potentially dangerous reaction.
Oxidising: Waste that can cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials.
Flammable: Waste that can easily catch fire and burn.
Corrosive: Waste that can corrode or dissolve other materials.
Toxic: Waste that can be harmful to human health or the environment.
Infectious: Waste that contains pathogens or other micro-organisms that can cause disease.
Carcinogenic: Waste that contains substances that can cause cancer.
Mutagenic: Waste that contains substances that can cause genetic mutations.
Ecotoxic: Waste that can harm the environment or ecosystems.
Hazardous waste is assigned an EWC code that corresponds to the specific hazard it poses. The EWC code helps to identify and track hazardous waste throughout its life cycle, from production to disposal. In addition to the EWC code, hazardous waste must also be accompanied by a consignment note when it is transported for disposal.
It is important to properly identify and classify hazardous waste to ensure that it is handled and disposed of safely and in compliance with environmental regulations. Failure to do so can result in fines, legal liability, and harm to human health and the environment.
Types of Hazardous Waste: UK Disposal Companies There are several reputable companies in the UK that specialize in handling hazardous waste. Here are some examples:
Veolia : Veolia is a global environmental services company that offers a range of services for managing hazardous waste, including collection, transport, treatment, and disposal.Biffa : Biffa is a UK-based waste management company that provides hazardous waste management services, including the collection, treatment, and disposal of a wide range of hazardous materials.SUEZ : SUEZ is an environmental services company that offers a range of hazardous waste management solutions, including hazardous waste collection, transport, treatment, and disposal.Cleansing Service Group (CSG) : CSG is a UK-based waste management company that specialises in hazardous waste management, including collection, transport, and disposal.Grundon : Grundon is a waste management company that offers hazardous waste management services, including collection, treatment, and disposal, as well as consultancy services to help businesses comply with environmental regulations.
When selecting a hazardous waste management company, it is important to consider factors such as their experience, expertise, and certifications. It is also important to ensure that the company is licensed and operates in compliance with relevant environmental regulations.
Types of Hazardous Waste: TreatmentThere are several steps involved in the treatment of hazardous waste.:
The primary step is the separation of hazardous materials from nonhazardous materials.
The next step is the disposal of the waste in a suitable disposal facility.
It is essential to treat hazardous waste properly to avoid causing contamination of the surrounding area.
Treatment of hazardous waste involves various methods of reducing the volume of waste.
Some of these methods include oxidation, chemical precipitation, and neutralisation.
Colour coded bins
Yellow Red Orange Purple White Blue Yellow & Black Black
Infectious waste to be disposed of immediately
Anatomical waste (hazardous and non-hazardous)
Infectious waste which is sent for treatment
Cytostatic and cytotoxic medicinal products such as sharps
Dental waste
Medicinal waste such as part empty containers,out of date medicine etc
Non-infectious/hazardous hygiene waste
Domestic waste
Types of Hazardous Waste: Biological treatment This involves using microorganisms in bioreactors to break down hazardous waste components. Both methods reduce waste volumes while minimising the risk of contamination to humans and the environment. Incineration is an alternative method for treating hazardous waste. This process uses a high-temperature flame to reduce the concentration of hazardous chemicals. The heat from the flame helps break down the waste into nontoxic gases, which are then safely discharged into the environment.
Incineration also treats heavy metals by converting them into oxides. The process also removes cyanides and sulfides, allowing them to be converted into fuel.
Types of Hazardous Waste – Learn more about UK business waste statistics here
Types of Hazardous Waste – Other useful links from our Commercial Waste Centre Why You Should Rent a Commercial Dumpster
Commercial Waste Collection Hull
Commercial Waste Collection Keighley
Remember to Compare Your Business Costs is here to help your business every step of the way from business advice , or saving you time and money on your business purchases such as:
