Businesses today face multiple challenges. From employee welfare and legal obligations to tax and compliance issues, there are several considerations that organisations must take into account.
And that’s without factoring in the coronavirus pandemic, which has hit all sectors hard over the past 12 months.
Another concern facing businesses in certain industries is that of toxic waste management. Those in the medical and construction sectors, to name just two, must adhere to very strict guidelines when it comes to dealing with hazardous waste.
So, what are some examples of toxic materials, what problems can they cause and how should they be disposed of?
What are some common examples of toxic substances?
Here are a few typical examples of toxic materials that must be dealt with carefully and responsibly:
- Acids
- Asbestos
- Disinfectants
- Heavy metals such as mercury and lead
- Paint
- Pesticides
- Solvents
- Petrol products
What problems can arise if they are dealt with incorrectly?
Plenty of harm can be done if these materials are not disposed of properly, which is why it’s so important that businesses follow the guidelines. For example, they can cause atmospheric or water pollution, which has the potential to have a significant impact on the surrounding environment and anyone living in the vicinity.
For those directly handling hazardous materials, the side effects can be severe if a careful approach is not taken. Burns, rashes, poisoning, nausea and disorders of the nervous system are some of the more serious health afflictions that could affect anyone who does not follow protocol and take the necessary precautionary measures.
How can businesses ensure they dispose of them properly?
A key step for any organisation that needs to manage hazardous waste is to ensure that all employees are fully trained in the process. Learning resources should be distributed to workers at all levels, with regular refresher courses to remind them of the steps they need to take, as well as to alert them to any changes in the guidelines.
It’s also imperative that you have the right equipment such as masks, body suits and disposable gloves, so that anyone handling the material does not risk it coming into contact with their skin.
Before it can be disposed of, any toxic substance should also be stored correctly in containers that are safely sealed and kept separate from other materials, in order to reduce the risk of any potentially harmful cross-contamination.
