Hazardous waste. It needs to be dealt with in a way that is sensible and responsible so as to prevent damage to humans, the environment and the wildlife. In order to make the severity and the danger of these hazardous substances and materials known, they should be marked with specific labels and symbols. Those symbols and signs will detail why those materials or substances are hazardous and why they need to be handled with caution.

If you’re looking to get rid of hazardous waste, then you need to choose a registered and licensed waste management firm, like us here at Willshee’s. We have a dedicated hazardous waste management service available to our customers, giving you peace of mind that those materials and substances will be dealt with and disposed of in a way that is responsible and safe. While we know and understand the hazardous waste signs and symbols, the general public, however, might not. In this blog post, we’ll be explaining those hazardous waste signs and symbols to you, so let’s take a closer look:

What makes a material hazardous?

When it comes to hazardous waste, it’s split into four different categories. If it meets the conditions outlined within any one of those four categories, then the material or substance is considered to be hazardous. As such, a specific symbol will be placed on its packaging.

Hazardous waste signs and symbols aren’t just placed on them when it’s considered waste. The materials need to be clearly marked as hazardous from the outset. There are some exceptions, such as asbestos, for instance. Asbestos is present in many homes, and it won’t be marked with a symbol when used in this way. However, it will be labelled when it’s taken down and disposed of. But let’s explore how hazardous waste materials are categorised:

Ignitability – marks materials that can create fires under certain conditions. It also refers to materials that can spontaneously combust and have a flash point of less than 60 degrees Celsius
Corrosivity – marks acids or bases, with pH levels less than or equal to 2 or greater than or equal to 12.5. They’re also considered to have the ability to corrode metal containers, like drums, barrels and storage tanks
Reactivity – marks materials that are unstable under “normal” conditions. They can cause explosions, toxic fumes, toxic gases or toxic vapours when heated, compressed or mixed with water. It can include things like lithium-sulphur batteries and explosives
Toxicity – marks materials that are toxic, therefore being harmful or fatal when ingested or absorbed. They often contain mercury or lead. It also refers to wastes that leak concentrations of contaminants that are harmful to human health or the environment

What are the hazardous waste signs & symbols?

It’s important to know the symbols and labels that you should be looking for to ensure correct and safe disposal. This involves using dedicated hazardous waste management services to protect human health, wildlife and the environment. So, what are the signs and symbols you should be looking out for?

Health hazard

This symbol is often found on materials and substances that pose a threat to the respiratory and reproductive systems, as well as being linked to organ toxicity. It can also cause other health issues that are chronic and long-term. In general, it’s anything that poses a health hazard.

Flammable

Anything that is considered to be flammable will be marked with this symbol. It indicates a substance or material that can self-ignite. Especially when it comes into contact with water, air or that emits flammable gases.

Exclamation mark

Sometimes used in connection with health hazards, this symbol will be found on materials and substances that are considered to be an immediate narcotic, skin or eye irritant, or that can cause the respiratory tract some irritation.

Gas cylinder

This symbol will be found on pressurised gases, liquified gases and dissolved gases, including things like: ammonia, liquid nitrogen and acetylene. As such, they should be treated with care.

Flame over circle

This symbol is used to indicate oxidisers, which are otherwise known as chemicals that facilitate burning. It’s also used to indicate chemicals that can make fires burn even hotter and longer.

Corrosion

This symbol is placed on materials and substances that have the ability to cause skin corrosion or burns. It will also have the capability to damage the eyes. These corrosive substances or materials also have the ability to corrode metal.

Exploding bomb

This symbol highlights any materials or substances that are considered to be explosive. This includes things like organic peroxides and highly unstable materials that are at risk of exploding, even without self-reactivity, such as exposure to air.

Skull & crossbones

This indicates materials and substances that are either poisonous or highly concentrated acids. Anything that has this symbol on it will have an immediate and severe toxic effect, otherwise called acute toxicity.

Environmental hazard

As the name would suggest, this indicates materials or substances that can be toxic to wildlife, specifically, marine and aquatic life.

Willshee’s is pleased to offer customers throughout the East Midlands quality waste management solutions, both in domestic and commercial settings. From general skip hire and construction waste to hazardous waste disposal and everything in between, you’ll always be able to count on us for general waste management solutions that will suit you. For further information, get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today – we’re always pleased to hear from you.

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