Dos and don’ts of transporting hazardous materials

May 28, 2024 59

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Running a business always involves the disposal of waste, but not all waste is the same. Some waste meets the EPA’s criteria for hazardous waste, meaning it possesses or has the potential for toxicity, ignitability, corrosiveness, or reactivity. Packing and transporting hazardous waste is a job best left to experts with the right gear and knowledge of current laws, rules, and regulations regarding its containment and removal. But whether you are part of a disposal company or plan to hire one, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the following dos and don’ts of transporting hazardous materials.

Do: Understand the regulations regarding hazardous waste

Part of doing business is knowing how local, state, and federal laws and standards affect your operations. Handling waste is no exception. Brush up on the rules set forth by governmental bodies such as the Department of Transportation (DoT). Don’t neglect the importance of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other agencies and administrations either. These agencies set rules to cover the collection, containment, and transportation of materials that could pose a danger to the community or environment. Without an understanding of these rules, you could face sizable fines and other penalties, not to mention bad publicity.

Do: Properly train employees in the disposal of hazardous waste

Many, if not most, hazardous waste accidents and disasters occur because people are poorly informed about proper procedures. Ensure employees at every stage—not just those involved in hazardous waste containment—are aware of the specific dangers. Train your staff on proper labeling and packing methods and how to identify the potential for accidents or disasters involving hazardous waste and curtail them, on-site or on the road.

Don’t: Forget the importance of proper documentation

Collecting and packing and transporting hazardous waste isn’t a matter of “out of sight, out of mind.” Maintain awareness of the seriousness of the materials in question by creating documentation every step of the way. Label packaging properly, identifying the substance. Provide easily understood instructions on reacting to hazardous waste breaches. Note the collection, removal, destination, and arrival of packaging containing waste as well. Often, regulations demand a paper trail, and having one can protect everyone involved.

Don’t: Neglect the importance of communication

Hazardous waste transportation requires regular and open communication between all parties. Those at the shipping and receiving end, as well as those operating the transporting vehicles, must maintain open lines of communication regarding the state and location of the waste. Convey instructions in clear and precise language and provide regular updates. Establish rules, roles, and a chain of command as well to ensure safety and security.

Those are several dos and don’ts of transporting hazardous materials. By taking steps to correctly handle your business’s waste, you deepen your commitment to the safety of your employees and your community.