Policy on Waste Disposal - Hazardous Materials
Policy Adopted in: 2013
Last Updated in: 2022
Application
This Policy applies to all the students, staff and visitors
Purpose
To ensure safe handling , generation, processing, treatment, package, storage, transportation, use reprocessing, collection, conversion, and offering for sale, destruction and disposal of Hazardous Waste.
Policy
This comprehensive policy outlines the guidelines and detailed procedures for the proper disposal of hazardous waste materials.
Definitions
Hazardous Materials: Hazardous materials encompass a wide range of substances that, due to their chemical, biological, radiological, or physical properties, have the potential to pose risks to human health, safety, and the environment. These materials include, but are not limited to, chemicals, biological agents, radioactive materials, and any other substances requiring special handling and disposal.
Hazardous Waste: Hazardous waste refers to any waste that contains hazardous materials and must be properly identified, managed, and disposed of in compliance with national, state, and local regulations.
Responsibility and Accountability
University Departments: Each university department is responsible for the identification and proper management of hazardous materials used within their activities. This encompasses the procurement, storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous materials.
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Office: The EHS Office holds the responsibility for overseeing the university's hazardous waste management program. They provide guidance, training, and support to university departments to ensure compliance with regulations and safe practices.
Waste Generators: Faculty, staff, and students who generate hazardous waste materials are accountable for following proper waste disposal procedures as outlined in this policy.
Waste Identification and Segregation
Identification: All hazardous materials must be accurately identified, labeled, and documented. The EHS Office maintain a Hazardous Materials Inventory to track and manage these materials.
Segregation: To prevent chemical reactions and ensure safety, hazardous materials must be stored separately from incompatible materials. Chemical compatibility charts and storage guidelines must be followed to ensure safe segregation.
Waste Minimization
The university actively promotes waste minimization practices, such as using smaller quantities of hazardous materials, substituting non-hazardous alternatives, and recycling when possible. Departments are encouraged to establish waste reduction goals and track their progress.
Waste Collection
Hazardous waste is collected in containers specifically designed for the storage of hazardous materials. These containers must be labeled with the following essential information:
- Contents b. Hazard class c. Date of accumulation d. Department name e. Hazardous waste tag, if applicable
Hazardous waste containers are stored in a secure location, away from general access areas, and protected from environmental exposure. Containers must be routinely inspected for signs of deterioration or leakage.
Waste Disposal
Hazardous waste disposal is carried out by an authorized waste disposal contractor with the necessary permits, licenses, and environmental responsibility.
Waste generators complete a Hazardous Waste Disposal Request Form, providing detailed information about the waste, including its nature, quantity, and potential hazards. The EHS Office reviews and approves disposal requests, and coordinates the removal of hazardous waste materials.
Waste generators ensure that waste is properly packaged for transport to the designated hazardous waste facility, following national, state, and local transport regulations.
Training
All personnel working with hazardous materials receive proper training in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Training is provided by the EHS Office, and refresher courses are made available to ensure continuous awareness and education.