Household hazardous waste encompasses products like cleaning solvents, lead paint, herbicides, insecticides, and batteries, which might pose a danger to human health and the environment because of their flammable, corrosive, and toxic nature. Through safe disposal of household waste, you not only avoid penalties but also protect your local ecosystem. This article examines useful facts that homeowners must know regarding safe disposal of household hazardous waste.

Handling and Storage

Hazardous products should be handled and stored correctly before disposal. For instance, improper disposal and storage can cause chemical leaks into the environment, which can harm the ecology. Ensure that all warning labels on the packaging of hazardous materials are visible. Keep corrosive chemicals away from children and make sure that the lids are adequately secured. Store flammable materials in a cool, dry, place, which is clear from ignition points. For safe handling and disposal of waste, have an expert visit your home and help you to prepare an inventory of all household hazardous waste.

Some Precautions during Disposal

Household hazardous waste should never be disposed of in regular skip bins, put in gutters, buried in the ground or washed down the sink. It is illegal to dump dangerous waste in such ways because of the risk of polluting the environment. For instance, if you deposit chemicals into the ground, surface runoff can lead to leaching of the chemicals into water sources, which can have long-term effects on the health of plants, animals, and human beings. Notably, you should also avoid spilling chemicals in drains as they might contain corrosive elements. When you dump hazardous waste in garbage bins, you run the risk of causing fires because some chemicals are highly flammable. Note that if found guilty of unlawful disposal, you can be slapped with hefty fines.

Permanent and Temporary Collection Centers

Australian States and territories have some versions of permanent and temporary garbage collection points or both. The collection facilities receive specific household hazardous waste by following regulations of such states and territories. Some institutions only accept mild toxicity but high volume waste such as batteries, vehicle oil, paint, and gas cylinders. Ask your local authority about the drop off times and days for temporary collection centers. Notably, most permanent drop-off points are located at waste transfer stations where the dangerous waste is separated and sent to specifically designed landfills. For other hazardous materials like asbestos and farm chemicals, you need to find licensed companies that conduct such specialized disposal services.

For more information about rubbish management, contact a local professional.