ENV/Waste Management/TBT-ENV-031
Hazardous Waste Identification and Disposal
Environmental › Waste Management › Hazardous Waste Identification and Disposal
Toolbox Talk
Hazardous Waste Identification and Disposal
Hazardous waste on construction sites includes contaminated soil, asbestos, chemical containers, oil-soaked rags, lead paint debris, and solvents. Incorrect handling or disposal is a criminal offence under environmental law and can cause serious harm to health and the environment. This talk explains how to identify hazardous waste, the legal requirements for its disposal, and what every operative must do when they encounter it.
Key Hazards
Pollution of land and water from incorrectly disposed hazardous materials
Health risks from contact with contaminated soils or chemical residues
Criminal prosecution for illegal disposal or failure to segregate waste
Fire or explosion from incompatible hazardous materials stored together
Control Measures
- Segregate hazardous waste from general construction waste at the point of generation.
- Label all hazardous waste containers clearly with the waste type, hazard symbols, and EWC code.
- Store hazardous waste in secure, bunded areas away from drains, watercourses, and general waste skips.
- Ensure hazardous waste is collected only by a licensed waste carrier with appropriate permits.
- Complete a hazardous waste consignment note for every collection and retain copies for three years.
- Brief operatives on how to identify common hazardous wastes found on construction sites.
- Never mix different types of hazardous waste together in the same container or skip.
- Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, eye protection, and RPE when handling hazardous waste materials.
- Report any discovery of unknown or suspected hazardous material to the site environmental manager.
Remember
- Segregate hazardous waste from general waste at the point it is generated on site
- Label all hazardous waste containers with the waste type, hazard symbols, and EWC code
- Hazardous waste must be stored in secure bunded areas away from drains and watercourses
- Only a licensed waste carrier may collect hazardous waste from the construction site
- Consignment notes must be completed for every hazardous waste collection and kept for three years
- Never mix different types of hazardous waste together in the same container or storage area
Applicable Legislation: Environmental Protection Act 1990 · Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 · Duty of Care Regulations 1991 · CDM Regulations 2015
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