Hazardous waste (workplace)
Waste from workplace activities that, because of its physical, chemical or biological properties, requires special handling and disposal to protect workers and the environment. Includes used chemicals, clinical waste and waste containing hazardous substances.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“hazardous waste”Close equivalentWorkers handling hazardous waste must be protected under COSHH 2002 (substances hazardous to health) and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. The Environment Agency regulates disposal, but HSE has jurisdiction over occupational exposure during handling, packaging and transport within the workplace.
Irish HSA
“hazardous waste”Close equivalentThe Chemical Agents Regulations 2001 apply to hazardous waste materials that expose workers during handling. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates hazardous waste disposal, but HSA has jurisdiction over worker health and safety during the handling of hazardous waste.
US OSHA
“hazardous waste operations”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 (HAZWOPER) covers hazardous waste operations and emergency response, requiring training, personal protective equipment, medical surveillance and health and safety plans for workers at hazardous waste sites. EPA and OSHA share regulatory responsibility for hazardous waste; OSHA covers worker safety during operations.
Note: This entry covers occupational health and safety aspects of hazardous waste handling. Environmental permitting for hazardous waste disposal is generally out of scope but worker exposure during handling is in scope.
Practitioner note: Worker exposure during handling is the safety duty; disposal sits under environmental law. Segregate at the point of generation.