All types of industries produce waste that is often considered hazardous and which needs careful attention to ensure it is disposed of in a safe manner according to the latest government guidelines. Legislation is constantly being updated to regulate procedures to protect both the environment and the general public.
Asbestos
Asbestos is classified as H7 in the hazardous substances list and can potentially lead to cancer. It is one of the main concerns as it has been used on a widespread scale for housing, hotels and commercial units for many years. Older premises can still contain the material which may have been installed more than fifty years ago and is now in a crumbling state. Safe removal is vital to avoid contamination from the fibres and requires workers to wear protective clothing and face masks while sealing the asbestos in bags.
Chemicals
This category can include battery acid, paint, brake fluid and solvents. All of them need to be disposed of safely to ensure that they do not seep into waterways or contaminate the land. Flammable chemicals can be particularly difficult as they have to be transported with great care according to strict regulations. H1 waste products are classified as explosive materials while H2 are oxidising which means they react when in contact with other substances.
Contaminated Land
Legislation is frequently being adapted to accommodate the intended use of land deemed to be contaminated from industrial waste. Expert extraction of hazardous wastes and contaminants can be carried out following a detailed analysis of the soil. Decontaminating procedures can ensure that the remaining soil is safe for new building schemes or alternative uses.
Public Health
Hazardous substances that fall into the categories of H4, 5 and 6 are regarded as potentially harmful as they can cause serious skin irritations. These can include liquid waste as diverse as printing inks and pesticides. Even open air events can cause a temporary problem with effluent waste needing to be treated according to regulations to prevent bacteria causing any harm to the general public.
Safe Disposal
Hazardous substances need to be identified and classified before they can be successfully removed and disposed of. Using a reputable company that is properly licenced and registered as a carrier of hazardous waste is of paramount importance. Seeking expert guidance from Oates Environmental will ensure that your hazardous waste is disposed of correctly.
