Aerosolved! Why businesses need to dispose of aerosols safely and how to do it.
Aerosol cans are a common sight in most businesses, with uses including the likes of lubrication, cleaning, disinfecting, painting, adhesives and many other functions. However, these cans contain hazardous substances that can pose a significant danger to the environment and human health if they are not disposed of properly.
Businesses must take the responsibility of safe disposal of aerosol cans seriously to avoid any legal and environmental repercussions. We’ve taken a look at the dangers of improper disposal of aerosol cans and provide insight into safe disposal practices.
The dangers of improper disposal of aerosol cans
Improper disposal of aerosol cans can have severe consequences for the environment and human health. These cans contain hazardous substances that can cause air, water, and soil pollution. The propellants used in aerosol cans are usually flammable and can cause explosions if they are not handled correctly.
Additionally, aerosol cans that end up in landfills can leak their contents into the soil and water, contaminating the surrounding areas. These substances can be harmful to animals and plants, leading to a significant impact on the ecosystem.
The dangers of improper disposal of aerosol cans are not limited to the environment. Employees and customers can also be at risk. If aerosol cans are not handled correctly, they can cause fires and explosions that can lead to severe injuries or even death.
Safe disposal practices for aerosol cans
Businesses can adopt safe disposal practices for aerosol cans to protect the environment, their employees, and customers. The following are some of the best practices that businesses can adopt:
Collect and store aerosol cans correctly
Businesses should ensure that aerosol cans are stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and flames. They should also be kept away from other hazardous materials to avoid the risk of a chemical reaction. Employees should be trained on how to handle aerosol cans safely and this training should be reviewed and repeated on regular occasions.
Identify and segregate hazardous waste
Aerosol cans fall under hazardous waste, and businesses must identify and segregate them from other waste streams. This will ensure that they are treated separately and disposed of safely. We’d recommend having visibly segregated bins that are clearly identified for the intended contents.
Recycle aerosol cans
Businesses can recycle aerosol cans to reduce the impact on the environment. Recycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, conserves natural resources, and reduces energy consumption.
Use a licensed waste management company
Businesses should use a licensed waste management company to dispose of their aerosol cans. Companies such as Acumen have the necessary permits and equipment to handle hazardous waste safely. We also ensure that the waste is disposed of in compliance with local and national regulations.
Conclusion
The safe disposal of aerosol cans is crucial for businesses to avoid legal and environmental repercussions. Improper disposal can cause severe harm to the environment and human health. By adopting safe disposal practices such as identifying and segregating hazardous waste, recycling, and using a licensed waste management company, businesses can minimize their impact on the environment and protect their employees and customers.
At Acumen Waste Services, we are committed to providing gold-standard specialist waste management and industrial site services to our customers. Our experienced team can help businesses develop safe disposal practices for their aerosol cans and ensure that they comply with local and national regulations.
Contact us today to learn more about our services.
