Waste disposal is complex when pretty much any item can become waste. We know waste comes in several types but don’t always know how to dispose of each one, which often happens with hazardous waste.
We could associate this term with commercial and industrial grade. Still, hazardous waste is also present in our households, which makes each homeowner responsible for figuring out how to eliminate it without violating any laws and not affecting your or anyone’s health.
For everyone’s well-being, learning about proper hazardous waste disposal is vital. We have dedicated this blog to teach you how to do it the right way!
Identifying Hazardous Waste
Let’s face it when you’ve already used a particular product, and you no longer require it, you will dispose of it. However, specific waste has a hazardous waste classification, which can have harmful effects on health or the environment, according to the EPA.
To minimize its adverse effects and reduce risks, you need to do Hazardous waste disposal correctly. Still, it can be tricky to know how to. First, you need to identify hazardous waste in your property, which we will help you with.
From regular cleaners to daily use items like batteries and even electronics are examples of hazardous waste. Still, each state and even the EPA has different classifications and methods to determine whether they are considered hazardous waste. Here in Delaware, it isn’t much different to them.
The Delaware Government states hazardous waste essentially has to be solid waste, be listed by them or your corresponding authority, and meet specific characteristics.
- Only solid waste is classifiable as hazardous overall.
- The Delaware Government has listed hazardous waste material you can compare with the object you’ll be disposing of. If it meets the description provided there, label it as hazardous waste. Some items do not make it to the list, so make sure it doesn’t match anything in there.
- Additionally, specific igniting, corrosive, reactive, or toxic characteristics let you know if your waste is hazardous. These characteristics are widespread, so they are excellent indicators of hazardous waste if you live in a different state.
We always advise you to double-check what is considered hazardous waste in your state to avoid fines and accidents.
Disposing Of Hazardous Waste
Once you’ve identified it is a hazardous waste you are dealing with; you should follow some simple steps:
- Start by inquiring about your specific laws and regulations for hazardous waste disposal near you.
- Follow the guidelines provided by your state. For instance, in Delaware, each item has its best method for disposal from either disposing of hazardous waste with household trash, hazardous waste drop-off at a recycling center, or a waste collection event by the Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA). If you classify as a small generator, it’s essential you re-notify waste to the DSWA this year and four years after.
- You can hire a professional waste hauling company when you can’t do either of the above. Ensure it is a licensed waste collector as we are at A-1 Services General. We can help you with other jobs like e-waste recycling or scrap metal recycling.
What Not To Do With Hazardous Waste
Due to the nature of these materials, avoid certain practices for yours and everyone’s safety:
- Don’t pour them down the drain, storm drains, sinks, showers, toilets, etc.
- Don’t mix hazardous waste with other types of garbage. Keep them separate for the security of the haulers, trucks, and water.
- Don’t let hazardous waste at children’s or pets reach.
Be Responsible To Stay Safe
We can all be safer by following easy measures and steps for proper hazardous waste disposal. If you think you require professional assistance, at A1 Services General, we can assist you with hazardous waste disposal near Delaware. Reach out to us today!
