Legislation

Hazardous Waste

Hazardous Waste (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Special Waste (Scotland) is described as any waste that has hazardous properties that may be harmful to human health and or the environment. Nearly all businesses produce some level of hazardous waste and need to ensure that it is handled and treated in accordance with the Duty of Care.

Some examples of hazardous waste include:

• Batteries
• Fluorescent light tubes
• Chemicals, solvents, paints, glues and varnishes
• Electrical equipment containing hazardous components e.g. cathode ray tubes from TVs and computer monitors
• Oils and fuels
• Oil Filters
• Asbestos
• Used vegetable oil
• Cleaning materials
• Substances that are explosive, toxic or flammable

All hazardous/special waste movements require the issuing of a Consignment Note which must be retained for a period of three years. Depending on your country within the UK different rules apply as to registration and pre-notification of hazardous/special waste movements.

As a business or organisation in England or Wales; if at any individual location your business produces more than 500kg of hazardous waste you must register that site with the Environment Agency. To register your business follow this link:Hazardous Waste Registration

In Northern Ireland and Scotland a system of pre-notification of movements of Hazardous/Special wastes apply.

If you are unsure about whether you have hazardous waste or whether the legislation applies to you please contact you relevant environmental regulator.