There are many business operations that generate a massive amount of waste, including chemical waste which needs to be disposed of in a different way than the average waste. If you run a manufacturing plant, oil and gas refinery, pharmaceutical company, or food-processing plant, among others, you will need to seriously consider what your course of action is to get rid of chemical waste in an ethical manner or risk facing liability. So what can these companies do to properly minimize their liability through waste disposal?
What is Chemical Waste?
Chemical waste is the waste created by the use of chemicals that could harm human health or the environment when released into the air, water, or soil. Residuals in chemical containers, unlabeled or abandoned chemicals, chemicals in damaged containers, and debris like paper towels and gloves that are contaminated with hazardous materials are all examples of hazardous waste.
Many types of chemical waste are classified as hazardous wastes, so proper chemical waste disposal is essential for minimizing environmental harm and human health risks.
Some of the steps you can take to minimize your waste liability include:
- Reduce hazardous chemical use if possible
- Store waste safely
- Provide adequate training to all employees dealing with chemical waste
- Follow proper shipping protocols
- Work with a reliable waste disposal company
There are also environmental benefits to proper waste disposal:
- Reducing the consumption of raw materials
- Reducing pollution
- Reducing energy use
- Reducing the volume of waste that must be treated and disposed of
How Should You Handle Empty Drums That Contained Chemical Waste?
While many companies throw away used plastic, fiber, and steel drums, there are typically rules in place about how to get rid of them because they have often been used to hold dangerous or environmentally damaging materials. Going through the hassle of legally disposing of used drums is often more costly and time-consuming than working with a drum recycling company. Orlando Drum accepts used drums from all kinds of industries and also provides pick up services for Florida or Georgia companies that don’t have the means of transporting large quantities of used drums.
If the containers comply with the federally regulated definition of “empty,” they do not need to be managed as hazardous waste. Ignition, reactivity, or contamination can still occur even in drums with residue from hazardous waste, so caution is advised. Drum recycling facilities can take care of your hazardous materials containers with relative ease. Even if there is residual waste in the drum, tank, or portable waste tote, the right facilities will know how to handle them with care. Just be sure to label the kind of waste that was previously in the container.
Contact Orlando Drum Today to Discuss Empty Drum Recycling
Orlando Drum has been receiving, reconditioning, and reselling plastic and steel drums in Florida, Georgia, and the Southeastern United States for over 40 years. We are committed to our customers and the environment, and make sure that every drum meets current UN standards. If you need to recycle empty 55-gallon drums, or are interested in our pickup, delivery, or disposal services, contact us today.