Workplace waste management
The collection, segregation, storage and disposal of waste generated by workplace activities, including general waste, controlled waste, clinical waste and construction waste. Employers have duties to prevent waste from causing risks to health, safety and the environment.
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“workplace waste management”Close equivalentHSWA 1974 section 2 requires employers to ensure the health and safety of employees in relation to the workplace and its processes, which includes the safe handling and disposal of waste. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 (section 34) imposes a duty of care on any person who produces, carries, keeps, treats or disposes of controlled waste. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and COSHH 2002 impose specific duties for hazardous waste streams.
Irish HSA
“workplace waste management”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (section 8) requires employers to manage workplace risks including those arising from waste. The Waste Management Acts and EPA Regulations impose a duty of care in relation to waste disposal. HSA has jurisdiction over worker exposure to waste; the EPA has jurisdiction over environmental impacts.
US OSHA
“workplace waste management”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1910.141 (sanitation) requires that all workplaces be maintained in a clean and orderly condition and that waste materials be removed safely. 29 CFR 1910.120 (HAZWOPER) covers hazardous waste operations. Construction waste is addressed in 29 CFR 1926.25. Environmental waste management regulation is primarily under the EPA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act).
Practitioner note: Segregate at the point of generation. Mixed waste turns routine disposal into a hazardous handling problem for whoever next opens the container.