Proper disposal of hazardous waste can also generate tangible financial and operational benefits for a business owner. Find out what you need to know about this.
Why does hazardous waste disposal require special attention?
Hazardous waste differs from other waste fractions because a mistake made when handling it does not end merely with a fine or warning from officials. Dangerous substances contained in used oil, solvents or batteries can seep into soil and groundwater, cause a warehouse fire, an explosion or contamination. Compliant disposal of hazardous waste is therefore of paramount importance. It minimises the risk of dangerous accidents, helps avoid penalties and serious financial losses, while also protecting the company generating hazardous waste from losing its good reputation. Properly designed hazardous waste disposal can simultaneously reduce costs associated with waste management in the company and even support the achievement of sustainable development goals.
What obligations related to hazardous waste disposal apply to businesses?
A business generating hazardous waste must register and maintain detailed records of this waste in the BDO system. This includes, among other things, Waste Records, electronic Waste Transfer Notes for each handover to a recipient, as well as annual reports. A business generating hazardous waste should also correctly identify and classify the waste according to the applicable catalogue and ensure its separate collection. Businesses are also required to organise compliant disposal of hazardous waste, but before that happens, they are responsible for the safe storage of these substances in marked areas and containers; they are also subject to time limits for storing these materials. Hazardous waste disposal must be carried out at an appropriate, certified facility, while the transport of waste is governed in this case by the provisions of the ADR agreement.
How to organise compliant disposal of hazardous waste?
Effective hazardous waste management should begin with a waste audit and end with a well-considered choice of a partner specialising in hazardous waste disposal. The greatest benefits come from cooperating with an entity that can provide comprehensive support for waste management processes in the company, rather than limiting itself solely to hazardous waste disposal. Stena Recycling offers this extensive and professional support; it processes more than 500 000 tonnes of hazardous waste annually. Hazardous waste disposal carried out by Stena Recycling enables businesses to legally neutralise dangerous substances, ensures their transport, supplies containers, assists with BDO procedures, and also opens the way to better waste management through recycling or reuse. This approach makes it possible to optimise costs and additionally helps companies meet sustainable development requirements and effectively build a competitive advantage.