Common Risks and Hazards When Dealing with Waste Management

While waste management services have policies in place to ensure the safe disposal of rubbish, there are still common risks and hazards you may encounter. From legal implications to excessive noise exposure, this blog explores everything you need to know about what to avoid when dealing with waste management.



Hazardous waste

Often, individuals dispose of their waste incorrectly without being aware of the risks. Certain waste that ends up in landfill can cause significant harm to both the environment and those who come into contact with it. This includes chemical and biological hazards such as car batteries, bleach, dead animal carcasses, human waste and metals.

Toxic groundwater

When waste is buried, it can lead to groundwater contamination. This can cause whole areas to become unsafe and unfit for human use, as drinking contaminated groundwater can have serious health effects. Diseases such as hepatitis and dysentery may be caused by contamination from waste, while poisoning may be caused by toxins that have leaked into well water supplies. Wildlife can also be harmed by contaminated groundwater.

Risk of injection

Waste disposal workers risk coming into contact with needles and sharp objects. These can often contain bodily fluids, diseases and bacteria. If someone’s skin is penetrated with a needle or sharp object, then they are exposed to contamination and are at risk - this is why extra care should be taken when dealing with waste removal.

Skin contact

When it comes to waste management, people can come into contact with hazardous materials through skin contact. This includes the hands, eyes and mouth. Precautions should be taken to ensure the chances of this happening are minimised.

Legal implications

Waste management companies must ensure that they are following strict requirements to make sure they are not falling foul of the law. Failure to comply could result in members of your company facing legal action, fines and even imprisonment.

Inhalation

Breathing in waste can be very harmful - you risk inhaling asbestos, gases and other toxic substances. This can have a negative effect on your body, which is why employers should provide masks and regular health checks as preventive measures.

Excessive noise

From loud machinery to the deafening sound of glass collection, too much noise can pose a serious risk for those who work in the waste management sector. Excessive noise exposure can harm your hearing in the long run, even causing deafness. Measures such as noise-cancelling devices can help reduce this risk.

Here at William Thompson & Son, we take pride in being a responsible waste disposal site and plant operator. From eco-friendly landfill services to our concrete solutions, you can rest assured that we never compromise on quality. To find out more about how we can help you, please get in touch today.