What is Hazardous Waste?

Hazardous waste can be described as any waste that could cause damage to human health or the environment.

Hazardous waste includes:

• Asbestos chemicals

• Chemicals, such as brake fluid

• Batteries

• Solvents

• Pesticides

• Oils

• Equipment containing ozone depleting substances, fridges

• Fluorescent tubes (mercury)

• WEEE, computer monitors, white goods.

These types of waste must be treated differently compared to non hazardous waste. With all of them having to be treated under hazardous waste regulations. No hazardous wastes should be sent to landfills as this could have disastrous effects on environmental health. 

How to Dipose of Hazardous Wastes?

Hazardous waste must be disposed of in the correct manner. It cannot be put in a black bin and it cannot be placed in a skip. Most hazardous wastes can be taken to your local hazardous waste management centre. These centres are commonly located at the same location as your local recycling centre. Here the hazardous waste will be sorted and classified ready for treatment. 

If you are taking the hazardous waste to the treatment centre yourself, be careful when transporting the waste. Make sure the hazardous waste is contained correctly to reduce the risk of any harmful chemicals or residues from escaping into the vehicle.

Hazardous Waste Collection

There are companies out there that will come and collect your hazardous waste for you. This services will include the collection and transportation of the waste to a suitably authorised facility. Some companies have their own hazardous waste treatment facilities others will take it to a treatment plant. This is a very convenient option when it comes to disposal of hazardous waste. It reduces your physical contact with the dangerous and possibly harmful materials. But also you know the company will dispose of the waste following the correct regulations.

Can I put Hazardous Waste in a Skip?

No is the simple answer. Hazardous waste of any kind is not allowed in a skip, especially if there is other material in the skip. This would contaminate all the waste, meaning all the contents will have to be treated as hazardous waste. If you put hazardous waste into a skip, the skip company will either refuse to collect the skip or will charge you a hefty penalty fee.

Summary

• Hazardous waste is any waste that could cause harm to human health or the environment.

• Hazardous waste must be disposed of differently from other waste.

• Hazardous waste can be taken to your local hazardous waste centre.

• You can hire a hazardous waste disposal service for ease of mind