Nearly 13 tons of hazardous waste is produced every single second.
A hazardous material is something potentially dangerous to humans or the environment. Almost every day, we come into contact with hazardous materials.
These are chemicals that can cause illness or injury if you mishandle them. They can also cause damage to the environment when you improperly dispose of them.
If you are wondering how to handle hazardous waste, this short and simple guide is for you.
Keep a Material Safety Data Sheet on Hand (MSDS)
When you work with hazardous waste, it’s important to know what the chemical is.
The best way to do this is with an MSDS. These sheets include information about the chemical you’re working with, such as its chemical name and formula.
They also list any health hazards associated with the material and instructions for proper handling and disposal.
Know What Each Hazard Symbol Means
There are many types of waste, and they assign each one with a specific symbol.
If you see any of these symbols on a container or label, it means that the material inside is toxic or flammable. These symbols will warn you about the contents, so be sure to pay attention.
If you need to learn all about the hazard symbols, check out the DOT Hazmat training courses.
Learn the Proper Storage Methods
There are many ways to store hazardous materials.
You can keep them in a secure location where no one can access them, or you can place them inside a locked cabinet. The safest option is to keep any waste products in their original containers until you are ready to dispose of them properly.
You can also store hazardous materials in a ventilated area. This will help keep them from igniting or exploding if they come into contact with air.
Be Familiar With Disposal Guidelines
One of the safety tips for hazardous materials is to dispose of them properly. You can’t just throw them away in the regular trash, or they will contaminate other products.
You may have to take them to a hazardous waste facility for disposal.
If you’re not sure how to dispose of a particular item, check with your local waste management company for advice. You may also want to consult an environmental health and safety specialist.
Put On Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When you work with hazardous chemicals, you need to wear PPE that will protect you from exposure.
This includes gloves, eye protection, a respirator mask, and more. You may also want to wear protective clothing, such as a lead apron or coveralls.
Always make sure you have the right PPE before you work with hazardous waste.
Dealing With Hazardous Material Requires Careful Attention
Hazardous waste is dangerous.
You need to take great care when you handle, store, and dispose of it. Unprotected exposure to hazardous material can lead to serious injury or death.
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