When storing hazardous materials, follow regulations to ensure you don’t commit any violations.
All generators of hazardous waste, large and small, have a lot to think about when determining how to manage this waste in a safe, compliant manner. Consider that in the year 2012, hazardous waste incidents caused $16 million worth of property damage. Only 6% of this total was blamed on natural causes. That means that 94% were actually preventable! Following regulations is only one way to prevent hazardous waste violations, but it is a critical step. Here are five of the most common hazardous waste violations that companies commit, along with how to avoid committing them yourself.
1. Failure to Make a Characterization of Hazardous Waste
All hazardous waste generated on site must be characterized as such to avoid being cited for this violation. Err on the side of caution if you’re unsure, as it’s always safer to do so.
2. Failure to Do Weekly Inspections
Environmental regulations dictate that hazardous waste areas and containers ought to be inspected every week. Keep logs of your inspections in case you need them later. One way to properly manage your inspections is to perform them on the same day every week to ensure you don’t miss a week.
3. Failure to Close Containers at the Proper Time
Containers of hazardous waste need to be closed at all times unless you are adding or removing waste from them. If the contents of the container could potentially spill when it is overturned, it is considered not closed in the eyes of the law!
4. Failure to Meet Contingency Plan Requirements
Contingency plans are designed to minimize the risks to human health and the environment from the hazards presented by hazardous waste generation. Your plan must include emergency procedures, the details on how the plan was created, and a list of emergency contacts and equipment.
5. Failure to Make Enough Aisle Space
It may seem a little obvious, but workplaces do end up violating this rule. In hazardous waste storage, containers need to be spaced such that it allows unobstructed movement in the event of an emergency. Make sure this space is allowed at all times!
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No matter what kind of environmental issue you may have, AEG Environmental can help. We handle every situation with care, dedication, and a commitment to exemplary customer service. When you have an emergency, you can rely on us! Need training? We can handle that too! We train in a wide variety of environmental management areas so that your company can remain compliant with EPA, DOT, and OSHA. Make sure to check out our blog for the latest and greatest in the waste management world! You should also follow us on social media for updates.
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