Avoiding Health and Legal Risks with Professional Hazardous Waste Removal

Are you dealing with hazardous waste removal? Well, many health and legal risks are involved if you undertake improper industrial or demolition waste disposal. Read our blog to learn the risks and how to avoid them. 

The Health Risks of Hazardous Waste Removal

Massive production industries create too much hazardous waste, such as lubricating oils, reactive materials, pesticides, herbicides, batteries, medical waste, contaminated substances, etc. If not disposed of properly, they can harm the environment in the following ways: 

• Land pollution: If the soil absorbs waste, it can prove dangerous for people, plants and animals. 

• Water pollution: Waste that enters the ocean or other water bodies can contaminate water, making it unsafe for consumption and aquatic animals.

• Air pollution: Improper waste disposal can produce greenhouse gases and release gases like methane, causing massive global climate change. 

• Climate change: Hazardous waste can thicken the ozone layer and cause the ice caps to melt, raising the sea level and hampering climatic conditions. Such climatic changes can cause disasters like tornadoes, hurricanes and floods.

• Respiratory problems: Inhalation of chemical fumes or particles can cause chronic lung conditions or acute respiratory distress.

• Skin irritation and burns: Prolonged exposure can result in chemical burns, rashes, or dermatitis.

• Long-term effects: Certain substances are carcinogenic or can damage internal organs over time, leading to life-altering conditions like cancer or kidney failure.

• Infections: Contact with contaminated sharps or fluids may transmit diseases like hepatitis or HIV.

• Allergic reactions: Prolonged exposure to certain biological agents can lead to hypersensitivity or chronic allergies.

• Anxiety and stress: Constant exposure to dangerous materials can create a high-pressure environment.

The Legal Risks of Hazardous Waste Removal

In Canada, the management and disposal of hazardous waste are governed by strict regulations to safeguard public health and the environment. Here's an overview:

• Municipal regulation: Local governments handle waste collection, recycling, disposal, and wastewater management.

• Provincial regulation: Provincial bodies oversee hazardous waste licensing, movement, and compliance. 

• Federal regulation: At the national level, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) regulates hazardous waste management through the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) and ensures proper handling, recycling, and disposal. The ECCC monitors dangerous waste imports and exports to minimize environmental and health risks.

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA)

CEPA expands the regulatory scope for hazardous materials, including their inter-provincial movement and international trade. It defines hazardous materials based on their toxic, corrosive, or flammable properties and enforces strict compliance to prevent environmental damage and health hazards.

Quick Tips to Avoid the Dangers of Hazardous Waste Removal 

• Wear proper protective gear during handling.

• Train workers in hazardous waste protocols.

• Ensure safe storage in approved containers.

• Follow local disposal regulations strictly.

• Use licensed professionals for complex removals.

Looking for trusted hazardous waste removal? Contact the top professionals at Rockridge Industrial Services Inc. We will guide you through the whole process.