Today, we’ll go over how to decide on the right hazardous waste container.
Managing hazardous waste is far from easy. There are so many regulations that have to be respected at all times, and you also have to keep up with these regulations as they change. These regulations are crucial, though, because they are paramount for providing people, your facility, and the environment the best protection possible. When taking safety precautions, one of the first steps to take is choosing the right hazardous waste container.
All wastes are different, so you’ll have to make the decision for your container based on whatever waste you have. Today, we’ll go over how to decide on the right hazardous waste container.
Identify the Kind of Waste You’re Containing
Hazardous waste is just what you think it would be…hazardous. There are certain aspects of hazardous waste that make it a harmful substance that can damage people, property, and the environment without proper handling skills.
In order to know the best hazardous waste container to use, it’s important to understand the type of waste you’re handling. Profiling your waste can be done using available information, such as SDS sheets, or through analytical tests. After you know about the waste you’re handling, you’ll know the best safety measures to take with it.
Deciding on the Material for Your Hazardous Waste Container
After identifying your hazardous waste, you need to figure out the best material for your hazardous waste container. Usually, a hazardous waste container will be made from glass, plastic, or metal, and knowing the traits of your waste will influence which material is most suitable. Some traits of your waste that should be considered are:
- Toxicity
- Ignitability
- Corrosivity
- Reactivity
Deciding on the Size of Your Hazardous Waste Container
You’re also going to have to make a prediction on the amount of waste that will accumulate. Sometimes, alterations in temperature, as well as reactivity, can make waste contract and expand, so you should never overfill a container beyond the specifications of the manufacturer.
Make the Necessary Marks and Labels
Once you have chosen your hazardous waste container, you have to mark and label it accordingly. Labels should be pictograms that are diamond-shaped and 4 inches by 4 inches in size. By applying labels, staff will be able to know what kind of waste is inside of the container, allowing them to make the appropriate decisions when handling it.
You also need to have a mark saying “HAZARDOUS WASTE” on the container. The mark also must have the shipping name of whatever material is being stored, a start time of accumulation, an address and name of the generator, and a manifest documentation number.
Call AEG Environmental for Hazardous Waste Management Services!
AEG Environmental has the skills, resources, and training to solve any environmental issue you may face. Our team has over 20 years of experience transporting and disposing of non-hazardous, hazardous, infectious, and universal wastes. We welcome projects big and small and pride ourselves in our exceptional customer service. For more information about our hazardous waste disposal and transport services, please contact us today!