Safe Work Procedure: Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Waste

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste at the workplace. It applies to all employees who may come into contact with hazardous waste during their work activities. This procedure does not apply to hazardous waste being transported or handled under The Dangerous Goods Transportation Act and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (Canada) [1].

2. Definitions

Hazardous Waste
A hazardous product that is intended for disposal or acquired/generated for recycling or recovery [2].

Supplier Label
A label provided by a supplier that contains the information elements required by Part 3 of the Hazardous Products Regulations [3].

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
A document that provides information on the properties of hazardous products and how they affect health and safety in the workplace [3].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations regarding hazardous waste.
• Provide necessary training and resources for safe handling and disposal.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure procedures are followed.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures and use PPE as required.
• Report any spills or incidents immediately to a supervisor.
• Participate in training sessions and apply learned practices.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of safety procedures.
• Monitor compliance and report any safety concerns.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Chemical exposure	Health effects from inhalation or skin contact	Use of PPE, proper ventilation, and training [1]
Spills and leaks	Environmental contamination and health risks	Spill containment kits and emergency procedures [4]
Improper disposal	Legal penalties and environmental harm	Follow disposal regulations and use licensed waste disposal services [5]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to protect workers from exposure to hazardous waste.

• Gloves - Use chemical-resistant gloves when handling hazardous waste.
• Safety Goggles - Protect eyes from splashes and fumes.
• Respirators - Use when ventilation is inadequate to control inhalation risks.
• Protective Clothing - Wear coveralls or aprons to prevent skin contact.
• Footwear - Use steel-toed boots with chemical-resistant soles.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged items immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safe handling.

• Spill Kits - For immediate containment and cleanup of spills.
• Labeling Tools - Ensure all containers are properly labeled with contents and hazards.
• Ventilation Systems - Maintain air quality and reduce inhalation risks.
• Storage Containers - Use approved containers for hazardous waste storage.
• Transport Equipment - Use appropriate carts or dollies for moving waste safely.

Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment to ensure functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must complete training on hazardous waste handling, including understanding SDS and proper use of PPE [1].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review hazards, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures before starting work.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, well-ventilated, and equipped with necessary safety equipment.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Identification and Labeling

Identify hazardous waste and ensure all containers are labeled with the appropriate information [5].

• Verify labels are legible and up-to-date.
• Use workplace labels if supplier labels are missing.

Step 2: Handling and Storage

Handle and store hazardous waste according to safety guidelines [5].

• Use appropriate PPE at all times.
• Store waste in designated areas with proper containment.

Step 3: Disposal

Dispose of hazardous waste following regulatory requirements [5].

• Use licensed waste disposal services.
• Complete all necessary documentation for waste tracking.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Use PPE - Always wear the required PPE when handling hazardous waste.
• Follow Procedures - Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines.
• Report Incidents - Immediately report any spills or exposure incidents.
• Maintain Equipment - Regularly check and maintain all safety equipment.
• Stay Informed - Keep up-to-date with training and safety information.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of an emergency, follow the established emergency response plan and notify the appropriate personnel immediately [6].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Spill - Use spill kits to contain and clean up immediately.
• Exposure - Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Fire - Evacuate the area and contact emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor. An investigation will be conducted to determine the cause and prevent recurrence [6].

12. References and Related Documents

• Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020)
• Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act

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Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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