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What is Considered Hazardous Waste?

Author Archives: US Waste Industries, Inc.

  1. What is Considered Hazardous Waste?

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    Click to ExpandWhat is Considered Hazardous Waste?

    Exposure to hazardous waste is a major safety concern in any area people might traverse or occupy. Left untreated, it poses serious environmental risks to soil and groundwater.

    Homeowners and businesses can benefit from comprehensive hazardous waste services, including full HAZMAT certification and proper permitting procedures required for certain materials.

    What is Hazardous Waste?

    Hazardous waste includes any material that poses biological and/or chemical hazards to surrounding life. Hazardous waste presents harmful traits such as:

    • Corrosivity. Capable of dissolving metal and other materials
    • Toxicity. Poses a threat to the environment and human health (especially when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin)
    • Reactivity. Holds the potential for sudden, violent reactions
    • Ignitability. High flammability and/or explosion risk

    What is Considered Hazardous Waste?

    Many commercial and household products contain hazardous waste, including:

    • Batteries
    • Paint, primers, and paint thinners
    • Herbicides and pesticides
    • Cleaning solvents
    • Items containing mercury (such as thermostats and thermometers)
    • Old electronics (e.g., computers, televisions)

    Industrial solvents and materials can be particularly hazardous due to the presence of:

    • Chemicals. Manufacturing facilities, tank cleaning, and pharmaceutical operations use a wide range of solvents, cleaning agents, and base or acidic compounds in daily operations. Fertilizers and pesticides used in agriculture are also common sources of hazardous waste chemicals.
    • Heavy Metals. Mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium are just several examples of toxic heavy metals that persist in the environment for long periods. Many electronic devices, batteries, paints, and other industrial chemicals also contain heavy metals.
    • Solvents. Degreasers, paint thinners, dry-cleaning fluids, and other organic solvents can be very toxic, sometimes even posing combustion and flammability risks.
    • Asbestos. Because asbestos fibers are incredibly damaging to the lungs, asbestos contamination requires highly specialized asbestos removal services, which U.S. Waste also provides. Old construction materials containing asbestos are one of the most common sources of exposure, and demolition or renovation projects require painstaking care to avoid creating friable (airborne) asbestos dust.
    • Biological Waste. Hospitals and laboratory settings can produce hazardous medical waste products, including needles and other items contaminated with biological agents that pose infection and other health risks.
    • Radioactive Materials. Nuclear power plants, medical facilities, and certain industrial processes use radioactive substances that must be carefully disposed of.
    • Oils and Petroleum Products. The oil and gas sector uses a variety of hazardous petroleum products and byproducts, generating large amounts of fuel and waste oils that could contaminate water and soil.
    • Electronics and E-Waste. Electronic devices containing heavy metals, flame retardants, and other hazardous materials require specialized e-waste disposal methods.
    • Batteries. Batteries also contain certain heavy metals and hazardous chemicals. Lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries are just a few examples of batteries requiring safe handling and disposal methods.

    How Hazardous Waste is Classified

    Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) breaks hazardous waste into four categories by letter:

    F List

    • Spent solvents
    • Electroplating and other metal finishing solutions
    • Dioxin-bearing waste products
    • Chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons and byproducts
    • Wood preservation solvents
    • Petroleum refinery chemicals
    • Wastewater treatment sludge
    • Multisource leachate

    K List

    • Wood preservation solvents
    • Organic chemicals for manufacturing
    • Pesticides
    • Petroleum products
    • Pharmaceutical waste products
    • Inorganic pigments and chemicals
    • Explosives
    • Iron and steel manufacturing byproducts
    • Primary aluminum products
    • Secondary lead processing
    • Coking (via coal processing)
    • Ink formulation

    P List

    This list regulates various unused commercial products containing one of the chemicals on the P or U list.

    U List

    The U List regulates discarded commercial chemical waste, including off-spec products and manufacturing chemical intermediates containing hazardous material. This includes soil or debris that has been contaminated by products found on the U list.

    Learn More About Hazardous Waste from U.S. Waste

    Hazardous waste poses various health and environmental risks and requires strict handling and removal processes. It’s essential to accurately detect, identify, and dispose of hazardous waste in any setting, especially homes and businesses.

    U.S. Waste specializes in a wide range of industrial hazardous waste management and disposal methods for various corrosive, toxic, reactive, or ignitable substances.

    To learn more about our hazardous waste disposal, non-hazardous waste disposal, HAZMAT, and remediation services, contact us or request a quote today.

  2. How Much Does it Cost to Remove Asbestos?

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    Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once popular in construction materials, is now infamous for its health risks, including lung disease and mesothelioma. Due to these severe health risks, asbestos must be removed by certified professionals. But how much does it typically cost to remove asbestos? In this post, we’ll break down the various factors that have an impact on the total cost of asbestos removal.

    Asbestos Removal Cost Factors

    The cost of asbestos removal largely depends on the size and location of the asbestos-containing material. Generally, larger areas mean higher costs, as more materials and labor are required. Asbestos located in easily accessible areas typically incurs lower removal costs compared to asbestos in more secluded or hard-to-reach places like roofs and attics, due to the added time, specialized equipment, and safety measures required for safe removal from these areas.

    Types of Asbestos-Containing Material

    Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) come in six main types:

    • Amosite
    • Actinolite
    • Anthophyllite
    • Crocidolite
    • Chrysotile
    • Tremolite

    Depending on the type, individual fiber sizes range from 0.2 to 1 micron, too small to see with the naked eye. Building roofs, flooring, siding, insulation, and HVAC ducts are places commonly containing ACM. Asbestos may also be found in textured paints and decorative materials, requiring specific techniques for safe extraction. Each location and type of ACM requires different methods and precautions during removal, impacting the overall cost.

    For example, removing asbestos from HVAC ducts is often more complex and riskier than removing it from floor tiles. Costs can vary further based on the condition and age of the asbestos material. Brittle or deteriorated asbestos poses higher risks and complications, necessitating more stringent safety measures and thus increasing the removal cost.

    Removal vs. Encapsulation

    Another factor to consider is whether to go for complete removal or encapsulation, which involves sealing the asbestos material to prevent fiber release. Encapsulation is generally less expensive than removal and can be an effective measure if the asbestos isn’t currently posing a risk to the building occupants.

    However, encapsulation might not be suitable in all scenarios, such as when the material is frequently disturbed or when renovation plans involve altering the encapsulated areas. Deciding between these options should be based on a thorough risk assessment and long-term property management plans.

    Disposal Fees

    Proper disposal of asbestos materials is crucial to avoid environmental contamination and adhere to legal regulations. The fees for disposing of asbestos materials can vary greatly depending on local and EPA regulations and the amount of waste. In general, disposal rates range between $10 to $50 per cubic yard. Some regions may have subsidies or special programs to help offset the costs of asbestos disposal, reducing the financial burden on property owners.

    Cost of Asbestos Removal: Average Ranges

    Nationally, the cost to remove asbestos can range significantly based on the factors we’ve discussed. On average, property owners might expect to pay between $1,000 and $4,000, with the cost per square foot ranging from $5 to $20 for interior asbestos. However, this is just an estimate, and actual costs can vary widely depending on the job specifications and local market rates.

    Additional Considerations

    Before removal begins, asbestos testing is necessary to confirm the presence and type of asbestos. This can cost an additional $250 to $850. Some localities also require permits for asbestos removal, adding $50 to $100 to the total cost. Unexpected complications during the removal process can also arise, potentially increasing the final bill.

    Contact U.S. Waste for Asbestos Removal

    Understanding the costs involved in asbestos removal is crucial for the safe and effective management of this hazardous material. Always ensure you are working with certified professionals to handle any asbestos-related issues.

    Considering the many factors affecting asbestos removal costs, it’s essential to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific situation. U.S. Waste Industries, Inc. specializes in safe, efficient, and compliant asbestos removal. We encourage you to contact us or request a quote to discuss your needs and get a detailed understanding of the potential costs. For more information, visit our asbestos removal page.

  3. How Is Hazardous Waste Disposed?

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    Click to ExpandHow Is Hazardous Waste Disposed?

    When handled improperly, hazardous waste poses a significant threat to both public health and the environment. Hazardous waste is defined as any substance capable of harming ecosystems or human life, and it comes in many forms. For industrial companies, agricultural facilities, and other sites, following proper disposal procedures is necessary to ensure compliance with EPA regulations.

    As a full-service environmental company, U.S. Waste Industries, Inc., specializes in both hazardous and non-hazardous waste removal services. Here, we will discuss the various substances that are classified as hazardous waste and their correct disposal methods. We will also cover the state and federal regulations surrounding hazardous waste disposal and key challenges to be aware of. Learning how to properly handle these harmful substances is crucial for maintaining a safe living environment. 

    Hazardous Waste Disposal Methods

    Hazardous waste comes in liquid, solid, and gas forms, as well as numerous chemical compositions. Due to these differences, there is no one-size-fits-all disposal method. In many cases, the waste must be exposed to either chemical, thermal, biological, or physical treatments before they are suitable for subsequent disposal processes. Chemical, thermal, and biological treatments target the molecular level of waste while physical treatments, such as evaporation or solidification, decrease their volume or concentration. 

    Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), regulations are outlined on proper hazardous waste management and disposal. This comprehensive regulatory program outlines acceptable disposal methods, which include landfill disposal, incineration, recycling, and neutralization processes. 

    Landfill Disposal

    Hazardous waste landfills are among the oldest and most commonly used disposal methods. These sites are specially engineered to contain hazardous substances without contamination to the ground or surrounding ecosystem. They are created by excavating a site deep within the ground and then lining it with a non-porous material like clay or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Additional leak protection systems, double liners, and wind dispersal controls are then implemented for further safety. 

    Incineration

    High-temperature incineration is a thermal method of solid hazardous waste disposal. The waste is added to an incinerator, like a rotary kiln, followed by supplemental fuel, like natural gas. All sides of the solid waste are exposed to flames while the vapors are pulled through a series of plume eliminators and coolers that control air pollution.

    This disposal method safely destroys harmful chemicals and reduces the amount of waste in landfills. Several types of equipment facilitate this process, including:

    • Rotary kilns
    • Fluidized-bed incinerators 
    • Liquid-injection incinerators
    • Multiple-hearth furnaces

    Recycling

    Recycling hazardous waste offers many benefits for both resource conservation and the environment. Depending on the type of waste material, several techniques can be used:

    • Reuse: Waste can be substituted for another industrial ingredient or product. 
    • Energy recovery: Waste can be burned as fuel. 
    • Reclaiming: The waste can be processed to recover useful parts or regenerate it to its original state.

    Treatment and Neutralization

    Certain types of waste can be chemically neutralized and transformed into a state that’s safe for disposal. Chemical treatment methods include:

    • Precipitation
    • Ion exchange 
    • Reduction
    • Oxidation
    • Neutralization 

    These processes target a waste product’s molecular structure, destroying it. In addition, physical treatments like solidification are also used. Evaporation, filtration, and flotation are all physical methods of decreasing waste volume or creating a leach-resistant, solid mass that can be more easily and safely disposed of. 

    Types of Hazardous Waste

    The EPA provides lists outlining all hazardous materials; however, waste generally falls into the following categories: 

    • Lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals: Found in batteries, electronic waste, and industrial processes, these materials persist in the environment and accumulate within living organisms over time. 
    • Solvents, pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls: By-products of chemical production, agriculture, and industrial manufacturing, these substances are volatile and can contaminate the environment. 
    • Formaldehyde, chloroform, benzene: Found in pharmaceutical production, manufacturing, and laboratories, these chemicals are carcinogenic, toxic, and can potentially have long-term health effects. 
    • Acids and bases: Used in chemical manufacturing, metal processing, and laboratory settings, acids and bases can cause physical harm and corrode materials. 
    • Explosives, propane, gasoline: Used in military activities, automotive maintenance, and industrial processes, these substances are combustible and a potential fire and explosion hazard. 

    Regulatory Framework

    Both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level agencies play a role in regulating hazardous waste disposal and enforcing these regulations. It is essential for any type of business to adhere to these guidelines as non-compliance results in penalties. While regulations can vary based on state, in many instances state guidelines are more stringent than federal programs. Information specific to your location can be found on the EPA’s website. 

    Learn More About Hazardous Waste Disposal 

    Hazardous waste disposal is a complex, yet vitally important topic. With the multitude of hazardous materials and disposal methods available, it takes a trusted expert to ensure proper handling. At U.S. Waste Industries, Inc., we offer comprehensive hazardous waste disposal services, nationwide. Whether you’re dealing with surplus chemicals, wastewater disposal, lagoon cleaning, or another challenging issue, our team is ready to offer support. To learn more, contact us or request a quote today.