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What is Considered Hazardous Waste?

Click to ExpandWhat is Considered Hazardous Waste?

Exposure to hazardous waste is a major safety concern in any area people might traverse or occupy. Left untreated, it poses serious environmental risks to soil and groundwater.

Homeowners and businesses can benefit from comprehensive hazardous waste services, including full HAZMAT certification and proper permitting procedures required for certain materials.

What is Hazardous Waste?

Hazardous waste includes any material that poses biological and/or chemical hazards to surrounding life. Hazardous waste presents harmful traits such as:

  • Corrosivity. Capable of dissolving metal and other materials
  • Toxicity. Poses a threat to the environment and human health (especially when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin)
  • Reactivity. Holds the potential for sudden, violent reactions
  • Ignitability. High flammability and/or explosion risk

What is Considered Hazardous Waste?

Many commercial and household products contain hazardous waste, including:

  • Batteries
  • Paint, primers, and paint thinners
  • Herbicides and pesticides
  • Cleaning solvents
  • Items containing mercury (such as thermostats and thermometers)
  • Old electronics (e.g., computers, televisions)

Industrial solvents and materials can be particularly hazardous due to the presence of:

  • Chemicals. Manufacturing facilities, tank cleaning, and pharmaceutical operations use a wide range of solvents, cleaning agents, and base or acidic compounds in daily operations. Fertilizers and pesticides used in agriculture are also common sources of hazardous waste chemicals.
  • Heavy Metals. Mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium are just several examples of toxic heavy metals that persist in the environment for long periods. Many electronic devices, batteries, paints, and other industrial chemicals also contain heavy metals.
  • Solvents. Degreasers, paint thinners, dry-cleaning fluids, and other organic solvents can be very toxic, sometimes even posing combustion and flammability risks.
  • Asbestos. Because asbestos fibers are incredibly damaging to the lungs, asbestos contamination requires highly specialized asbestos removal services, which U.S. Waste also provides. Old construction materials containing asbestos are one of the most common sources of exposure, and demolition or renovation projects require painstaking care to avoid creating friable (airborne) asbestos dust.
  • Biological Waste. Hospitals and laboratory settings can produce hazardous medical waste products, including needles and other items contaminated with biological agents that pose infection and other health risks.
  • Radioactive Materials. Nuclear power plants, medical facilities, and certain industrial processes use radioactive substances that must be carefully disposed of.
  • Oils and Petroleum Products. The oil and gas sector uses a variety of hazardous petroleum products and byproducts, generating large amounts of fuel and waste oils that could contaminate water and soil.
  • Electronics and E-Waste. Electronic devices containing heavy metals, flame retardants, and other hazardous materials require specialized e-waste disposal methods.
  • Batteries. Batteries also contain certain heavy metals and hazardous chemicals. Lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries are just a few examples of batteries requiring safe handling and disposal methods.

How Hazardous Waste is Classified

Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) breaks hazardous waste into four categories by letter:

F List

  • Spent solvents
  • Electroplating and other metal finishing solutions
  • Dioxin-bearing waste products
  • Chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons and byproducts
  • Wood preservation solvents
  • Petroleum refinery chemicals
  • Wastewater treatment sludge
  • Multisource leachate

K List

  • Wood preservation solvents
  • Organic chemicals for manufacturing
  • Pesticides
  • Petroleum products
  • Pharmaceutical waste products
  • Inorganic pigments and chemicals
  • Explosives
  • Iron and steel manufacturing byproducts
  • Primary aluminum products
  • Secondary lead processing
  • Coking (via coal processing)
  • Ink formulation

P List

This list regulates various unused commercial products containing one of the chemicals on the P or U list.

U List

The U List regulates discarded commercial chemical waste, including off-spec products and manufacturing chemical intermediates containing hazardous material. This includes soil or debris that has been contaminated by products found on the U list.

Learn More About Hazardous Waste from U.S. Waste

Hazardous waste poses various health and environmental risks and requires strict handling and removal processes. It’s essential to accurately detect, identify, and dispose of hazardous waste in any setting, especially homes and businesses.

U.S. Waste specializes in a wide range of industrial hazardous waste management and disposal methods for various corrosive, toxic, reactive, or ignitable substances.

To learn more about our hazardous waste disposal, non-hazardous waste disposal, HAZMAT, and remediation services, contact us or request a quote today.

How Much Does it Cost to Remove Asbestos?

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once popular in construction materials, is now infamous for its health risks, including lung disease and mesothelioma. Due to these severe health risks, asbestos must be removed by certified professionals. But how much does it typically cost to remove asbestos? In this post, we’ll break down the various factors that have an impact on the total cost of asbestos removal.

Asbestos Removal Cost Factors

The cost of asbestos removal largely depends on the size and location of the asbestos-containing material. Generally, larger areas mean higher costs, as more materials and labor are required. Asbestos located in easily accessible areas typically incurs lower removal costs compared to asbestos in more secluded or hard-to-reach places like roofs and attics, due to the added time, specialized equipment, and safety measures required for safe removal from these areas.

Types of Asbestos-Containing Material

Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) come in six main types:

  • Amosite
  • Actinolite
  • Anthophyllite
  • Crocidolite
  • Chrysotile
  • Tremolite

Depending on the type, individual fiber sizes range from 0.2 to 1 micron, too small to see with the naked eye. Building roofs, flooring, siding, insulation, and HVAC ducts are places commonly containing ACM. Asbestos may also be found in textured paints and decorative materials, requiring specific techniques for safe extraction. Each location and type of ACM requires different methods and precautions during removal, impacting the overall cost.

For example, removing asbestos from HVAC ducts is often more complex and riskier than removing it from floor tiles. Costs can vary further based on the condition and age of the asbestos material. Brittle or deteriorated asbestos poses higher risks and complications, necessitating more stringent safety measures and thus increasing the removal cost.

Removal vs. Encapsulation

Another factor to consider is whether to go for complete removal or encapsulation, which involves sealing the asbestos material to prevent fiber release. Encapsulation is generally less expensive than removal and can be an effective measure if the asbestos isn’t currently posing a risk to the building occupants.

However, encapsulation might not be suitable in all scenarios, such as when the material is frequently disturbed or when renovation plans involve altering the encapsulated areas. Deciding between these options should be based on a thorough risk assessment and long-term property management plans.

Disposal Fees

Proper disposal of asbestos materials is crucial to avoid environmental contamination and adhere to legal regulations. The fees for disposing of asbestos materials can vary greatly depending on local and EPA regulations and the amount of waste. In general, disposal rates range between $10 to $50 per cubic yard. Some regions may have subsidies or special programs to help offset the costs of asbestos disposal, reducing the financial burden on property owners.

Cost of Asbestos Removal: Average Ranges

Nationally, the cost to remove asbestos can range significantly based on the factors we’ve discussed. On average, property owners might expect to pay between $1,000 and $4,000, with the cost per square foot ranging from $5 to $20 for interior asbestos. However, this is just an estimate, and actual costs can vary widely depending on the job specifications and local market rates.

Additional Considerations

Before removal begins, asbestos testing is necessary to confirm the presence and type of asbestos. This can cost an additional $250 to $850. Some localities also require permits for asbestos removal, adding $50 to $100 to the total cost. Unexpected complications during the removal process can also arise, potentially increasing the final bill.

Contact U.S. Waste for Asbestos Removal

Understanding the costs involved in asbestos removal is crucial for the safe and effective management of this hazardous material. Always ensure you are working with certified professionals to handle any asbestos-related issues.

Considering the many factors affecting asbestos removal costs, it’s essential to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific situation. U.S. Waste Industries, Inc. specializes in safe, efficient, and compliant asbestos removal. We encourage you to contact us or request a quote to discuss your needs and get a detailed understanding of the potential costs. For more information, visit our asbestos removal page.

How Is Hazardous Waste Disposed?

Click to ExpandHow Is Hazardous Waste Disposed?

When handled improperly, hazardous waste poses a significant threat to both public health and the environment. Hazardous waste is defined as any substance capable of harming ecosystems or human life, and it comes in many forms. For industrial companies, agricultural facilities, and other sites, following proper disposal procedures is necessary to ensure compliance with EPA regulations.

As a full-service environmental company, U.S. Waste Industries, Inc., specializes in both hazardous and non-hazardous waste removal services. Here, we will discuss the various substances that are classified as hazardous waste and their correct disposal methods. We will also cover the state and federal regulations surrounding hazardous waste disposal and key challenges to be aware of. Learning how to properly handle these harmful substances is crucial for maintaining a safe living environment. 

Hazardous Waste Disposal Methods

Hazardous waste comes in liquid, solid, and gas forms, as well as numerous chemical compositions. Due to these differences, there is no one-size-fits-all disposal method. In many cases, the waste must be exposed to either chemical, thermal, biological, or physical treatments before they are suitable for subsequent disposal processes. Chemical, thermal, and biological treatments target the molecular level of waste while physical treatments, such as evaporation or solidification, decrease their volume or concentration. 

Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), regulations are outlined on proper hazardous waste management and disposal. This comprehensive regulatory program outlines acceptable disposal methods, which include landfill disposal, incineration, recycling, and neutralization processes. 

Landfill Disposal

Hazardous waste landfills are among the oldest and most commonly used disposal methods. These sites are specially engineered to contain hazardous substances without contamination to the ground or surrounding ecosystem. They are created by excavating a site deep within the ground and then lining it with a non-porous material like clay or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Additional leak protection systems, double liners, and wind dispersal controls are then implemented for further safety. 

Incineration

High-temperature incineration is a thermal method of solid hazardous waste disposal. The waste is added to an incinerator, like a rotary kiln, followed by supplemental fuel, like natural gas. All sides of the solid waste are exposed to flames while the vapors are pulled through a series of plume eliminators and coolers that control air pollution.

This disposal method safely destroys harmful chemicals and reduces the amount of waste in landfills. Several types of equipment facilitate this process, including:

  • Rotary kilns
  • Fluidized-bed incinerators 
  • Liquid-injection incinerators
  • Multiple-hearth furnaces

Recycling

Recycling hazardous waste offers many benefits for both resource conservation and the environment. Depending on the type of waste material, several techniques can be used:

  • Reuse: Waste can be substituted for another industrial ingredient or product. 
  • Energy recovery: Waste can be burned as fuel. 
  • Reclaiming: The waste can be processed to recover useful parts or regenerate it to its original state.

Treatment and Neutralization

Certain types of waste can be chemically neutralized and transformed into a state that’s safe for disposal. Chemical treatment methods include:

  • Precipitation
  • Ion exchange 
  • Reduction
  • Oxidation
  • Neutralization 

These processes target a waste product’s molecular structure, destroying it. In addition, physical treatments like solidification are also used. Evaporation, filtration, and flotation are all physical methods of decreasing waste volume or creating a leach-resistant, solid mass that can be more easily and safely disposed of. 

Types of Hazardous Waste

The EPA provides lists outlining all hazardous materials; however, waste generally falls into the following categories: 

  • Lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals: Found in batteries, electronic waste, and industrial processes, these materials persist in the environment and accumulate within living organisms over time. 
  • Solvents, pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls: By-products of chemical production, agriculture, and industrial manufacturing, these substances are volatile and can contaminate the environment. 
  • Formaldehyde, chloroform, benzene: Found in pharmaceutical production, manufacturing, and laboratories, these chemicals are carcinogenic, toxic, and can potentially have long-term health effects. 
  • Acids and bases: Used in chemical manufacturing, metal processing, and laboratory settings, acids and bases can cause physical harm and corrode materials. 
  • Explosives, propane, gasoline: Used in military activities, automotive maintenance, and industrial processes, these substances are combustible and a potential fire and explosion hazard. 

Regulatory Framework

Both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level agencies play a role in regulating hazardous waste disposal and enforcing these regulations. It is essential for any type of business to adhere to these guidelines as non-compliance results in penalties. While regulations can vary based on state, in many instances state guidelines are more stringent than federal programs. Information specific to your location can be found on the EPA’s website

Learn More About Hazardous Waste Disposal 

Hazardous waste disposal is a complex, yet vitally important topic. With the multitude of hazardous materials and disposal methods available, it takes a trusted expert to ensure proper handling. At U.S. Waste Industries, Inc., we offer comprehensive hazardous waste disposal services, nationwide. Whether you’re dealing with surplus chemicals, wastewater disposal, lagoon cleaning, or another challenging issue, our team is ready to offer support. To learn more, contact us or request a quote today. 

Why Choose Incineration Services for Your Waste Disposal Needs

Incineration is a waste management solution that has gained popularity due to its ability to convert waste materials into ash, gases, and heat. It involves burning waste at extremely high temperatures, reducing the volume and weight of garbage. This eventually produces energy in the form of heat that can be utilized for various purposes.

Although it has been criticized, it presents a range of advantages that make it a viable option for waste management needs. This article will explore the major reasons this solution must be considered for waste disposal.

How Does Incineration Work?

The process begins with the loading of waste into the incinerator. It is a large, sealed chamber intended to contain the heat and emissions produced during combustion. Once the trash is inside, the machine is heated to around 1,000 to 1,200 ℃ (1,800 to 2,200 ℉). This causes the waste to burn and break down into its constituent components.

As the waste burns, it releases carbon dioxide, water vapor, nitrogen oxides, ash, and soot. These emissions are filtered and treated to remove pollutants before being released into the atmosphere to minimize their impact on air quality. Then, the heat generated by the combustion process can be captured and used for various purposes, such as generating electricity or heating buildings.

Reasons for Considering Incineration Services

There are several reasons why businesses and homeowners must consider the combustion process as a waste disposal solution. From reducing the waste volume to producing renewable energy, incineration has advantages that make it a feasible alternative for managing all kinds of waste. The following are some of its major benefits:

Reduction of Waste Volume

Solid waste can be converted into ash and gaseous byproducts that take up far less space by burning waste at high temperatures. This is especially important in locations where landfills are scarce or full, as it can extend the life of existing waste disposal facilities. However, it is crucial to stress that it should not be viewed as a replacement for lowering waste output or enhancing recycling activities.

Renewable Energy Generation

The heat produced during combustion can be harnessed to generate electricity, heat buildings, or industrial power processes. It often depends on the specific needs of the community. This capability can be beneficial in locations where there is a need to lessen reliance on fossil fuels. Nonetheless, the service should be carefully evaluated regarding local energy needs and priorities.

Safe Disposal of Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste, such as medical waste or chemicals, can pose significant risks to public health and the environment if not properly managed. Combustion can neutralize or destroy these hazardous materials by subjecting them to high temperatures, preventing them from leaching into the soil or water. However, not all dangerous waste is suitable for combustion. Unallowable materials include asbestos, radioactive wastes, and explosive items.

Reduction of Odors and Pests

By incinerating waste, there is less opportunity for pests such as rats, cockroaches, and flies to infest waste storage areas. This significantly reduces the risk of disease transmission. The process can also help to reduce odors associated with waste, as it destroys organic matter that can generate unpleasant smells. It applies particularly to food waste or sewage sludge, which can emit strong odors if left untreated.

US Waste Industries: Your Reliable Partner for Your Waste Management Needs

US Waste Industries offers incineration services for hazardous and non-hazardous waste, including corrosive liquids and solids, explosives, flammable materials, and pesticides. We only require our customers to provide a material profile and physical sample for thorough analysis and conformity with regulatory requirements. Then, it will be scheduled for shipment after the material is deemed acceptable, and additional samples will be taken for further testing.

Contact us today to discover how we can help you manage your waste safely, sustainably, and cost-effectively!

Managing Cleanouts for Effective Waste Removal and Remediation

Click to ExpandManaging-Cleanouts-for-Effective-Waste-Removal-and-Remediation

As the global population continues to grow, the amount of waste generated also increases alarmingly. This contributes to improper waste management practices, threatening the environment and public health. Cleanouts — whether they involve homes, businesses, or industrial sites — are crucial to waste management.

Planning, organizing, and executing cleanouts with care are critical to ensuring the proper disposal or recycling of various waste types. In this article, we will explore how managing these initiatives for effective waste management can contribute to a safer and healthier environment.

How Do Cleanouts Work?

Cleanouts or cleanups involve removing and disposing of accumulated waste from a designated location, such as a residential, business, or construction site. The process begins with a thorough assessment of the area and the types of waste that need removal. Then, a plan is developed to determine the most effective way to handle the cleanout.

During the actual cleanout, the waste is carefully sorted into categories including recyclable, hazardous, and general waste. These categories may require different disposal methods, such as transporting hazardous waste to specialized facilities or recycling certain materials. Therefore, handling dangerous waste with extreme care and following all relevant regulations is important.

Once the waste has been segregated, it is transported to the appropriate disposal or recycling facility for further processing. Remember that proper documentation and record-keeping are crucial to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards throughout the cleanout process.

Waste Removal and Remediation Strategies for Cleanouts

Effective waste removal and remediation strategies ensure cleanups are conducted safely and efficiently. From hazardous materials to large debris, managing them requires careful planning and execution to minimize the environmental and health impact of waste. Below are four widely used strategies and solutions for waste management:

Hazardous Waste Disposal

Hazardous waste comprises substances like chemicals, batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, medical waste, and other materials that possess toxic or flammable properties. Proper disposal is crucial to prevent exposure to these substances, which risks soil and water contamination and fires or explosions.

Recycling

Recycling is an eco-friendly solution to waste removal and remediation used during cleanups. It involves collecting, sorting, cleaning, and processing recyclable materials into new products, preventing them from going to landfills. For instance, paper waste is typically pulped and reconstituted into new paper products, while plastic waste can be melted and remolded into new items.

Composting

Composting is a natural waste management strategy. It converts organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, breaking down food scraps, yard waste, and other compostable materials.

Landfill Disposal

Landfill disposals are intended to contain and isolate waste from the surrounding environment. However, they have several negative environmental impacts, such as methane gas release and soil contamination risks. These make them a last resort in waste removal and remediation processes.

Legal Requirements for Cleanouts

Besides adhering to best practices, complying with legal requirements is mandatory for every cleanout. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state and territorial agencies have established multiple initiatives to evaluate and eradicate polluted locations. These programs intend to safeguard human health and the environment from contamination’s harmful impacts.

The EPA and other related agencies can perform assessments to pinpoint contaminated sites and create remediation plans as part of the programs. In addition, the liable party the individual or company that caused the contamination — may be mandated to perform the cleanup. Noncompliance with these legal obligations can lead to fines and other penalties.

Choose U.S. Waste Industries for the Best Waste Removal Services

If you require reliable and comprehensive environmental services, U.S. Waste Industries is here to help! Our team of experts offers top-notch consulting services, including hazardous waste disposal services, remediation services, and demolition projects. We also provide indemnification through our insurance coverage covering pollution control.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in your cleanout and waste removal needs!

How To Choose Remediation Services

Environmental remediation is a vital process that aims to clean up contaminated sites and protect the health of humans and the environment. With the increasing pollution levels, choosing the right environmental remediation service to achieve a successful outcome has become essential.

The process of environmental remediation is complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Therefore, choosing the right service provider is crucial to ensure that the contaminated site is cleaned up effectively and efficiently.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Remediation Company

Getting the most suitable remediation service for your application largely depends on working with the right provider. To help you, here are the important things to remember when selecting a partner company:

Experience and Expertise

A company with a proven track record of successful remediation projects is more likely to be able to handle your specific contamination problem. It is also important to ensure that the service provider has knowledgeable and experienced staff who can tackle the complexities of your project.

License and Insurance

Verifying that a service provider is licensed and insured to perform remediation services is crucial. This will protect you from any liabilities in case of accidents or damage during the cleanup process. In addition, it will offer peace of mind that the company can perform the remediation process safely and effectively.

Methodology

Different environmental remediation companies may use different approaches to remediate contaminated sites. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the company you choose uses environmentally friendly and effective methods that comply with regulations. In addition, the service provider should be transparent about its processes, and you should feel comfortable with its approach to remediating your site.

Equipment and Technology

The company should have access to the necessary equipment and technology to effectively clean the site. You should inquire about their experience with the latest advancements in environmental remediation. Generally, a service provider willing to invest in the newest technology is more dependable in providing top-notch service.

Cost

It is a good idea to obtain quotes from several companies to compare prices and determine a fair market rate. However, be wary of extremely low quotes as they may indicate a lack of experience or the use of subpar methods. Instead, choose a company that provides a fair price for its services and is transparent about the costs associated with the project.

Communication and Transparency

Clear and open communication is essential for the success of any project, including environmental remediation. Choose a company that values communication with its clients and provides regular updates on its team’s progress. The service provider should also be open about any issues that may arise during the cleanup process and be willing to work with you to find a solution.

Protect Your Business With U.S. Waste Industries’ Remediation Services!

Mitigate environmental damage and protect your business with U.S. Waste Industries! Our professional remediation services — including soil and water treatment and mold remediation — are designed to effectively eliminate danger and manage complex projects.

We have a team of highly experienced experts in environmental remediation to guarantee a successful outcome for every project. We also use cutting-edge technology and equipment, so you know you’re getting the most efficient service for your needs.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

How To Dispose of Industrial Waste

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Industrial processes are always accompanied by waste, whether scrap metal, chemicals, general waste, or other potentially harmful materials. These create several disposal and handling issues for many companies.

Improper industrial waste management can have disastrous consequences for the environment. It can also risk your business’s reputation due to monetary penalties and negative press. Therefore, properly managing your industrial waste is needed to keep your brand intact and free from unnecessary issues.

What Is Industrial Waste?

Industrial waste refers to any unwanted or leftover materials from industrial processes. This includes several types:

Industrial Solid Waste

The garbage generated by businesses from industrial or manufacturing processes and non-manufacturing activities is considered industrial solid waste. These should be separate from regular office waste; thus, they require special handling.

Non-Hazardous Waste

Many industrial residues are deemed non-hazardous but could still harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Some examples include ash, sludge, grinding dust, and liquids with non-hazardous chemicals.

Hazardous Waste

This type of waste can harm people, animals, and the environment. If not managed, these can poison rivers, lakes, and other waterways, inflicting extensive harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Typically, these materials are byproducts of processes in factories, hospitals, and manufacturing facilities.

Proper Disposal of Industrial Waste

The majority of worldwide waste production comes from industrial processes. As such, proper waste disposal in these facilities will significantly help alleviate the present global waste issue.

Industrial waste management procedures must be incorporated in all companies to mitigate risks and ensure appropriate collection and disposal. Typically, trash can be sorted by type and sent to one of these three locations:

Segregation and Recycling Facilities

Much of the trash produced by your company’s manufacturing, transportation, and packing requirements is recyclable. Therefore, the first stage in developing an industrial waste management program is determining which items may be recycled and establishing appropriate containers or dumpsters to separate them.

Most recycling centers can recycle glass, paper, and plastic. Many can also deal with scrap metal, cardboard, and electronics recycling. These recyclables must be separated from hazardous, biodegradable, and non-hazardous solid waste.

Landfills

Only non-hazardous, non-recyclable, and non-compostable garbage should be disposed of in landfills. They are one of the most common ways of garbage disposal. Waste materials that arrive at landfills are contained to a limited area, compacted as needed, and then buried in the ground.

Compost Centers

Composting converts organic waste into fertilizer that may be used to improve soil quality for planting and growing. Most food waste, leaves, newspapers, small bits of cardboard, straw, and sawdust may all be composted. This is one of the most efficient methods of discarding organic and biodegradable trash.

Manage Your Industrial Waste With U.S. Waste Industries

Plan for the cost-effective, responsible, and safe disposal of industrial waste for your company! Whatever the industry and size of your operation, our team here at U.S Waste Industries can provide industrial waste services in a timely and effective way that positively contributes to the environment, your brand, and your operational efficiency.

Contact us today for inquiries!

 

Common Types of Hazardous Waste and How To Dispose of Them Safely

Click to ExpandCommon-Types-of-Hazardous-Waste-and-How-To-Dispose-of-Them-Safely

Hazardous waste refers to any waste that poses potential risks to public health or the local environment. Thus, they require proper handling.

While donation, recycling, or reusing is often the most preferred disposal method, these are often inapplicable for hazardous waste. Therefore, it’s necessary to properly identify the type of waste you have and the most appropriate way to safely dispose of them without harming the environment and people’s health.

How To Identify Hazardous Waste

Waste can be considered hazardous if the following characteristics are present in a material:

Corrosivity

One of the most common corrosive waste items is industrial-strength cleaners containing strong acids, such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. Car batteries are made of lead and contain sulfuric acid and are, thus, also considered corrosive.

Ignitability

This pertains to the flammability of compounds present in a product. Gasoline, oxidizers, and propane tanks are some of the most common flammable or ignitable objects.

Reactivity

Reactive wastes are potentially flammable when combined with other compounds or subjected to high temperatures. A frequent example is filled or partially-filled aerosol cans, which can explode when exposed to high temperatures.

Toxicity

Any waste containing poisonous elements that, if breathed or swallowed, can have significant or fatal health repercussions is considered toxic. If exposed to these harmful components, you must seek medical attention immediately.

Proper Disposal of Hazardous Waste

Checking the label is one of the fastest ways to determine if a product is dangerous and needs particular disposal techniques. In such cases, you must handle those wastes with caution.

Here are some common hazardous waste products and the right ways to dispose of them:

Adhesives

Adhesives, such as glue or epoxy, must be taken to the nearest hazardous waste processing facility and not mixed with recyclable trash or other non-hazardous items.

Pesticides and Automotive Waste

Pesticides should be disposed of according to the instructions on the product label. Any product that remains in the container must be discarded as hazardous waste. You may also contact a hazardous waste disposal facility in your jurisdiction to find out where you may dispose of your unused pesticides.

Certain automotive fluids can be appropriately disposed of by bringing them to local auto shops.

Light Bulbs

Aside from the chemicals inside the bulbs, glass shards are also health and safety hazards. Thus, all fluorescent bulbs and tubes must be delivered to a facility capable of processing these items.

Electronics, Appliances, and Batteries

Electronics, appliances, and batteries may be returned to OEMs for appropriate e-waste disposal.

Paints

You may donate residual paint to a community center, charity, house of religion, or local theater. They frequently work on projects with limited resources and may benefit from these extra materials.

Pharmaceutical Wastes

Most pharmaceutical waste is incinerated at an approved medical incinerator site since it cannot be thrown with regular trash. When you have leftover pharmaceutical products, contact a pharmacy or medical facility to safely dispose of them rather than putting them in the garbage or a dumpster.

[U.S. Waste Industries for Your Hazardous Waste Disposal!

Hazardous waste is a major environmental and public health concern on a global scale. Thus, identifying your waste type and how to properly dispose of it is crucial.

When in doubt, contact U.S. Waste Industries! Our team specializes in hazardous waste disposal, and we can take care of the transportation and efficient disposal of industrial waste materials as part of our extensive services.

Contact us today for inquiries.