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What Is PFAS Waste? An Expert Guide

Some things we want to last forever: tasty meals, unforgettable holidays, good health. But there’s something we don’t want to last forever: PFAS, the ‘forever chemicals’ this blog is about! 

Whilst they’ve offered many benefits over the years, their potential health risks and refusal to break down in the environment have led to growing concern. 

Read on to discover all you need to know about PFAS waste and how to best avoid exposure to these persistent chemicals.

  • What Is PFAS?
  • What Is PFAS Waste?
  • Why Is PFAS Waste a Problem?
  • How Should PFAS Waste Be Stored?
  • What Are the Disposal Options for PFAS?
  • How to Avoid PFAS Exposure in the Workplace
  • Hazport: Your Partner In Safe PFAS Waste Disposal

What Is PFAS?

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) is the name given to a synthetic group of chemicals that have raised significant environmental concerns due to their persistence in the environment and the potential health risks associated with them. 

These ‘forever chemicals’ have been used widely throughout various industries due to their unique properties, such as resistance to heat, oil, water and stains.

What Is PFAS Waste?

PFAS waste is a type of chemical waste generated from various sources, including: 

  • Industrial Processes: Manufacturing facilities using PFAS-containing chemicals in their production processes.
  • Consumer Products: Discarded products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing and firefighting foams.
  • Wastewater Treatment Plants: Wastewater treatment plants may receive PFAS-contaminated water from industrial and municipal sources.

Why Is PFAS Waste a Problem?

So you’ve probably heard a lot about PFAS in general, but perhaps you’ve wondered why they’re such a big deal – you’re not alone!

Here are a few reasons we should all find PFAS a concern: 

  • Environmental Persistence: PFAS chemicals are highly resistant to breaking down and can remain in the environment for extended periods.
  • Bioaccumulation: These chemicals can build up in the bodies of humans and animals, leading to potential health issues over time.
  • Water Contamination: PFAS can contaminate water sources, posing risks to both human health and ecosystems.

PFAS in wastewater is a huge concern and can lead to big problems as it easily spreads and can contaminate our food and drinking water. According to the Water Industry Journal, around 17,000 sites in the UK and Europe have been polluted with PFAS. Over 940 of these places have levels of PFAS in their drinking water that are higher than the UK’s safe limit and the actual number of polluted sites is likely even higher.

How Should PFAS Waste Be Stored?

PFAS waste must always be stored properly to prevent environmental contamination and protect human health. Here are some storage guidelines that can help you ensure safe storage:

  • Segregation: Separate PFAS waste from other types of waste to avoid cross-contamination or accidental mixing of wastes.
  • Containerisation: Store PFAS waste in appropriate leak-proof containers.
  • Labelling: Clearly label containers with the type of PFAS waste and potential hazards.
  • Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes.
  • Monitoring: Conduct regular inspections to check for any signs of damage or leaking. 

What Are the Disposal Options for PFAS?

In line with the most favourable options on the waste hierarchy, prevention and reduction should always be your top priority with PFAS waste. Always consider alternatives to PFAS-containing products to minimise future waste.

When you can’t avoid the use of PFAs, there are three key steps to bear in mind: 

When it comes to the destruction of ‘forever chemicals’, there are several treatment technologies used to reduce their impact. 

Whilst the following methods offer potential solutions, they each come with their downsides, such as the associated costs, energy consumption and the generation of PFAS-contaminated waste. 

Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) 

The use of powerful chemicals to break down PFAS into smaller, less harmful compounds. 

Downside: Can be energy-intensive and may need extra treatment steps.

Thermal Treatment 

High-temperature incineration can destroy PFAS as long as it’s burned completely to avoid creating harmful byproducts. 

Downside: Uses a lot of energy and must follow strict environmental regulations. 

Sorption Techniques 

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)

A porous material that traps PFAS as water passes through it. 

Downside: The used carbon needs careful disposal. 

Ion Exchange

Special resins attract and hold PFAS, removing them from water. 

Downside: The used resins must be disposed of properly. 

Membrane Filtration 

Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Nanofiltration

These advanced filtration techniques can effectively remove PFAs from water.

Downside: The concentrated water with PFAS needs further treatment or careful disposal. 

Ongoing research aims to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies to address this ‘forever chemical’ problem. 

How to Avoid PFAS Exposure in the Workplace 

Although often associated with industrial sites and polluted water sources, it’s important to recognise potential exposure risks in the workplace. Here are 10 quick tips to help minimise your exposure to PFAS: 

  1. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest information about PFAS, their uses, and any potential health risks. 
  1. Know your materials: Be aware of the chemicals and substances you use daily, especially those containing non-stick, water-repellent, or stain-resistant coatings. 
  1. Material selection: Choose PFAS-free alternatives whenever possible for materials, coatings and lubricants. 
  1. Safe handling techniques: Use proper techniques for handling PFAS-containing chemicals, such as minimising transfers and avoiding unnecessary exposure. 
  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves and masks whenever handling PFAS-containing chemicals or materials. 
  1. Closed systems: Work in closed systems whenever possible to minimise exposure to wider staff. 
  1. Proper hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially after handling potentially contaminated materials or before eating. 
  1. Regular cleaning: Clean work surfaces and equipment regularly with the appropriate cleaning agents. 
  1. Waste management: Dispose of PFAS waste properly, and in compliance with regulations. 
  1. Emergency procedures: Have a well-defined emergency response plan in place to handle spills and accidents involving PFAS-containing substances.

Remember to check with your health and safety department for any specific advice tailored to your workplace. 

Key Takeaways 

  • PFAS are persistent chemicals that can remain in the environment for a long time.
  • They can contaminate water sources and pose risks to human health and ecosystems.
  • Proper disposal of PFAS waste is essential to prevent environmental contamination.
  • Reducing the use of PFAS-containing products and adopting safer alternatives can help mitigate the problem.
  • Workplace safety measures can help minimise exposure to PFAS.

Hazport: Your Partner In Safe PFAS Waste Disposal 

Do you have aqueous-related liquids containing PFAS/PFOS that need disposal? 

At Hazport, we understand the complexities of PFAS waste management and we’re committed to providing safe and compliant disposal solutions. 

Through our partnership with trusted state-of-the-art treatment facilities, we can ensure the safe and effective destruction of PFAS residues within aqueous waste streams at approved temperatures. 

By understanding the challenges posed by PFAS waste and taking proactive steps to manage it responsibly, we can contribute to a healthier environment for future generations. 

Our experts are here to remove the guesswork. 

Please get in touch if you have any aqueous-related liquids containing PFAS/PFOS that you want disposed of safely. 

Partner with Hazport Today 

Don’t leave your safety and compliance to chance. Partner with Hazport to ensure that your hazardous waste is handled the right way. Our experienced team is ready to support you every step of the way, from identifying and segregating waste to final disposal.

Contact us today to learn more about our hazardous waste services and how we can help you create a safer and more compliant waste management system for your facility.

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How Long Should You Keep a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note?

If you’re moving hazardous waste from one premises to another, you’ll most likely need a hazardous waste consignment note.

Whether you’re a business owner or environmental manager, it’s essential to understand the importance of consignment notes and how they work.

This blog post explains everything you need to know about hazardous waste consignment notes. We cover why they’re crucial, when you need them and how long you should keep them to follow the law and handle hazardous waste safely.

What is a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note?

A hazardous waste consignment note is a legal document used to track the movement of hazardous waste from one location to another. This document is essential for ensuring that hazardous waste is handled safely, responsibly, and in compliance with environmental regulations. It details the type of waste being moved, its quantity, origin, and destination, as well as the parties involved in its transfer.

How Long Should You Keep a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note?

In England and Wales, it is a legal requirement to keep copies of all hazardous waste consignment notes for at least three years. This rule ensures there’s a legal record of the waste transfer, which must be available for auditing by the Environment Agency.

When is a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note Needed?

Whenever hazardous waste is transported, it must be accompanied by a correctly completed hazardous waste consignment note. This is essential for several scenarios, including when waste is taken from the producer’s site to a disposal site, or even when moving between premises within the same company, either by the producer themselves or a third party.

The consignment note ensures that all transports of hazardous waste are thoroughly documented from start to finish. It ensures that all parties involved, including the hazardous waste producer and facilities authorised to accept hazardous waste, are fully informed of their responsibilities and the specific details of the waste being handled. This systematic tracking helps keep the entire process safe and compliant with UK regulations.

When is a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note Not Needed?

You don’t need a hazardous waste consignment note in a couple of situations. First, you don’t need a consignment note if you’re moving domestic hazardous waste from a home to the first place it gets collected – and it’s not asbestos waste. This kind of waste is usually less risky and in smaller amounts than what businesses handle, so the process is more straightforward.

Also, you do not need a consignment note when hazardous waste crosses international borders and is handled under international waste shipment controls. 

These exceptions help make things a bit easier for less risky or internationally regulated waste movements.

How to Fill in a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to fill out a hazardous waste consignment note correctly, including what each part of the consignment note entails and who is responsible for completing it.

Part A: Notification Details

  • Who completes it? The waste producer or holder is responsible for filling out this part before the waste is collected.
  • What to include? This section captures essential information such as the waste’s origin and destination. It consists of the consignment note code, which must be uniquely generated for each movement. This code reflects the premises where the waste is being moved from and tracks the waste consignment throughout its journey.

Part B: Description of the Waste

  • Who completes it? The waste producer or holder completes this before the waste is collected.
  • What to include? This part should detail the source of the waste, the processes that produced it, its composition, and its properties. It is vital to include the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) code, which categorises the waste type, and a full written description to ensure all parties understand the nature of the hazardous waste produced.

Part C: Carrier’s Certificate

  • Who completes it? The registered waste carrier examines the details provided in Parts A and B and completes this section before transporting the waste.
  • What to include? The carrier (company) name, address, telephone/email details, carrier registration number and vehicle registration number. This part ensures that the waste carrier acknowledges the nature of the hazardous wastes they are transporting and confirms that the waste consignment has been described accurately.

Part D: Consignor’s Certificate

  • Who completes it? The consignor fills this out, and they must be present when the waste is collected.
  • What to include? This section serves as a double-check, confirming that the information provided earlier is accurate and complete. It includes the consignor’s confirmation and signature, acting as a formal declaration of the waste details.

Part E: Consignee’s Certificate

  • Who completes it? The consignee or the person receiving the waste at the destination.
  • What to include? When the waste arrives, the consignee must carefully compare and confirm that all sections of the consignment note match the actual characteristics of the received waste. They must either confirm the acceptance of the waste or reject it based on its compliance with the descriptions and safety regulations provided. This part is crucial for ensuring that the waste received is as described and that the facility is authorised to accept such hazardous waste under a permit.

By carefully filling out each part of the hazardous waste consignment note, everyone involved—from the person who makes the waste to the one who receives it—ensures that hazardous materials are managed safely and according to the law.

What is the Difference Between a Consignment Note and a Waste Transfer Note?

The main difference between a hazardous waste consignment note and a waste transfer note (WTN) is what they are used for and the details they include. 

A waste transfer note is for non-hazardous waste, and it covers basic information like who’s giving away the waste and who’s receiving it, as well as what type and how much waste there is. This document ensures that non-hazardous waste is handled correctly but doesn’t go into much detail.

On the other hand, a hazardous waste consignment note is used for waste that could be hazardous to people or the environment. This includes batteries, asbestos, solvents, paints, brake fluids, pesticides, and oils. These need to be dealt with very carefully.

The consignment note has detailed information necessary for safely handling, managing, and disposing of hazardous waste, ensuring everything complies with legal standards. It’s a thorough document that covers the specifics of waste and the rules for safely moving and disposing of hazardous materials. 

While both notes are used to track waste management responsibly, a consignment note deals with the added risks of hazardous materials.

Hazardous Waste Consignment Notes are Essential

Filling out and maintaining hazardous waste consignment notes is crucial for meeting environmental regulations and ensuring the safe, legal transport of hazardous materials, including during the same business movements. Whether you are a waste producer, carrier, or consignee, understanding how to complete these documents to manage hazardous waste responsibly is essential.

If you need more information on hazardous waste and disposal, check out our services at Hazport. From identifying to disposing of hazardous waste, our team is here to help your business manage hazardous waste.

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Can Hazardous Waste Materials Be Recycled?

Recognising whether hazardous waste materials can be recycled is a critical step in safeguarding human health and our environment. In this comprehensive guide, we navigate the intricacies surrounding hazardous waste, its regulatory framework, and the potential for recycling.

From everyday items to specific hazardous chemicals, this blog encompasses a broad spectrum of topics related to hazardous waste disposal and recycling. It underscores the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and emphasises responsible waste management practices.

Which Types of Hazardous Waste Can Be Recycled?

Many different types of hazardous waste can be recycled, here are a few examples…

Electrical Waste

Electrical waste, which includes items like fridges, washing machines, TVs and other equipment containing ozone-depleting substances, poses unique challenges in recycling. These items are considered hazardous waste and can be recycled.

Under hazardous waste regulations, recycling WEEE (electrical and electronic equipment) waste requires careful handling. The process entails separating hazardous components and safely recycling the rest. Businesses handling such waste must follow the waste classification code and store waste in designated hazardous waste containers to mitigate risks.

Fluorescent Tubes

Fluorescent tubes are classified as hazardous waste due to their mercury content. These tubes are first collected and transported to a recycling facility, where they are stored in secure containers to prevent breakage.

This hazardous waste recycling process involves breaking the tubes in a controlled, enclosed environment to contain the mercury vapour. The mercury is then distilled and can be reused in new products. Other components of the tubes, like aluminium end caps and glass, are also recycled, turning potential environmental hazards into valuable resources.

Many recycling centres accept these tubes, but they must adhere to strict guidelines to prevent mercury, a substance harmful to human health, from contaminating the environment. This is a prime example of how hazardous waste, when recycled correctly, can be managed without posing an immediate risk to health or the environment.

Gas Canisters

Gas canisters, ranging from fuels to flammable and corrosive substances, are considered hazardous materials. The canisters are first depressurised safely, and any residual gas is collected for reuse or proper disposal. The canisters are then cleaned to remove any hazardous residues.

Once cleaned, the metal parts of the canisters are recycled similarly to other metals, often melted down and reformed into new metal products. Non-compliance in handling these materials can lead to severe consequences, including fines or imprisonment. Proper disposal and recycling practices are essential for these high-risk materials.

Batteries

Batteries, from household to vehicle types, are common hazardous waste. They contain harmful chemicals that pose a significant risk to soil and water if not disposed of properly. Recycling centres that store hazardous waste, like batteries, must follow environmental regulations to prevent harmful impacts.

For example, lead-acid batteries are broken down, and the lead is smelted to be reused in new batteries. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries undergo a more complex chemical process to extract valuable materials like lithium and cobalt safely. This process minimises environmental impact and allows for the recovery of materials that can be reused in new batteries or other products.

Used Oils

Used oils, such as motor and cooking oils, are hazardous chemical waste that can severely contaminate water and soil. The used oil must be cleaned and removed of impurities before it can be recycled. This conserves resources and allows the oil to be reused over time.

Paint

Paint can be a complex form of waste, as certain types are recyclable while others are not. Oil-based paints, in particular, need specialised handling due to their flammability and chemical composition of heavy metals. Water-based paints, on the other hand, often contain mercury, which is extremely hazardous. Recycling centres dealing with paint must follow specific guidelines to ensure safe and effective recycling or disposal.

Which Types of Hazardous Waste Can’t Be Recycled?

Some hazardous wastes, like certain garden chemicals and asbestos chemicals, cannot be recycled due to their harmful nature. Asbestos can increase the risk of serious diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. Disposing of these materials must comply with environmental legislation, and local authorities often guide proper disposal methods, including the use of consignment notes and adherence to correct procedures.

Do You Need Help Recycling Hazardous Waste?

The recycling and disposal of hazardous waste are paramount for environmental health and safety. It requires knowledge of hazardous waste regulations, the risks involved, and the proper procedures for handling different types of waste.

Hazport offers cost-effective and compliant hazardous waste solutions that help you dispose of your waste correctly. From chemical to automotive waste, we help businesses with hazardous waste management, disposal and recycling in compliance with environmental legislation. We even offer a mobile chemist service to identify, classify and pack chemical waste for your business.