Toxic Waste Disposal: How it is Done

When we talk about hazardous waste disposal, we are usually talking about industrial and household effluents such as pesticides, chemicals, oils, solvents, paints, cylinders and aerosols. Disposal of such materials is a sensitive process, and good waste management will involve analysis of the material, safe packing, labelling and transportation where necessary. Lets have a look at some of the basic features of waste management.

Traditionally, some types of toxic waste has been disposed of in regular landfills. Over the years this has resulted in hazardous substances seeping into the ground and polluting the water table as well as agricultural crops. There are special regulations in place now that require hazardous waste to be specially treated before they are dumped into a landfill. This is the cheapest option of disposal, but new regulations require lab analysis of the material to be disposed of, which adds to the costs.

There are a number of incinerators around the country with the capacity to burn different kinds of waste. Hazardous substances may be destroyed by burning it at high temperatures. If it is flammable, it can sometimes be burnt as an energy source, making it an eco-friendly disposal process. Incinerators can sometimes release toxic fumes as the byproducts of burning waste, but more and more incinerators have the capability of burning them more effectively.

There is also something called a 'starved air' incinerator, which reduces the amount of oxygen used to burn materials, thereby reducing the toxic byproducts and air pollution. Most pesticides are disposed of in high-temperature incinerators. This is regarded as the safest and most effective way of dealing with hazardous waste that is toxic, flammable and non-biodegradable.

Before being taken to the final disposal site, most waste is treated and processed at a plant to make it less harmful. These units usually neutralize acidic or basic substances, denature aqueous solutions and reduce the volume of packaging.

If you are looking for professional help with your toxic waste disposal, Berkhire's waste services can help you do so effectively and safely. There are some things that you should keep in mind when you contact such a service. Be sure to ask if the consignments will be properly classified and labeled before they are disposed of. Find out if labels and packing material will be provided. Make sure that the documentation necessary for hazardous waste disposal is complete and above board.