Hazardous Waste Removal Contractors for Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings face unique challenges when it comes to environmental safety.

Unlike residential properties, these sites often contain a wide variety of hazardous materials, including asbestos and lead, petroleum products, industrial chemicals, and biological hazards. 

Left unmanaged, these substances can harm employees, tenants, and the surrounding community, while also putting businesses at risk of steep regulatory fines.

That’s where hazardous waste removal contractors like Environmental Demolition Group (EDG) come in.

Our certified team specializes in hazardous waste removal in buildings, providing compliant, turnkey solutions for offices, warehouses, healthcare facilities, schools, and industrial properties. 

We don’t just remove contaminants. We restore your property to safe, modern standards while safeguarding the people who rely on it. Ready to learn more?

Understanding Hazardous Waste in Commercial Buildings

Hazardous materials can be hidden in almost every corner of a commercial property. Some remain from outdated construction methods, while others accumulate over years of daily operations. 

Left unchecked, these materials can compromise indoor air quality, weaken structural integrity, and even put lives at risk.

That’s why hazardous waste removal is critical to keep buildings safe and compliant.

Here are some of the most common hazardous materials found in commercial spaces:

• Asbestos-containing materials: Once considered a “miracle material” for insulation, tiles, and flooring, asbestos is now recognized as a severe respiratory hazard.
  Disturbing asbestos during renovations without professional containment can release dangerous fibers into the air.

   

• Lead-based paint and coatings: Frequently used in buildings before 1978, lead dust can spread during remodeling or even routine maintenance. Long-term exposure may lead to neurological damage, particularly in children, making the removal of hazardous materials in buildings a public health priority.

   

• Mold and microbial growth: Moisture from leaks, poor ventilation, or high humidity can foster mold colonies behind walls and under flooring. Beyond musty odors, mold exposure can cause respiratory issues and trigger asthma, posing risks for employees and tenants.

   

• Mercury: Outdated thermostats, fluorescent lighting, and certain lab equipment often contain mercury. Even small amounts can contaminate indoor environments, requiring specialized cleanup procedures.

   

• Industrial chemicals and solvents: Commercial buildings often store cleaning agents, degreasers, and other chemicals in maintenance rooms. Spills, leaks, or improper storage can create fire hazards and toxic exposure risks.

   

• Petroleum products and oils: Warehouses and facilities with mechanical equipment may have old tanks, drums, or spills that leach into the flooring or soil. Left unaddressed, these contaminants can spread quickly and cause costly environmental damage.

   

• Mining and construction residues: Heavy metals, contaminated fill, or structural materials from prior site use may still be present under foundations or within support pilings.

   

• Biological hazards: Abandoned buildings and older structures often contain animal droppings, carcasses, or other biological waste. These hazards can carry bacteria, viruses, and allergens that endanger both occupants and cleanup crews.

   

• Universal wastes: Common yet regulated items, such as fluorescent lamps, batteries, and electronic waste, may seem harmless, but improper disposal can release lead, mercury, or other toxins into the environment.
  
  

Hazardous waste isn’t just a facilities issue— it’s a business continuity and reputation issue. Environmental Demo Group helps building owners and managers safeguard both.

The EDG Hazardous Waste Removal Process

We ensure precision from start to finish with a complete plan you can trust. Our hazardous material waste removal process includes the following:

1. Site Assessment & Testing

We begin with a comprehensive inspection of your building to identify all hazardous substances. Using advanced testing methods, we pinpoint asbestos, lead, mold, mercury, and other contaminants.

2. Containment & Safety Controls

Before removal begins, we isolate affected areas to prevent cross-contamination. Negative air systems, sealed enclosures, and PPE protect both workers and building occupants.

3. Removal & Transportation

Our teams carefully remove hazardous materials using OSHA-approved methods. All waste is packaged, labeled, and transported in compliance with EPA hazardous waste regulations.

4. Disposal at Licensed Facilities

Hazardous materials must be disposed of at certified facilities. We maintain relationships with approved disposal sites to guarantee safe handling.

5. Asbestos & Lead: Controlled, Compliant Removal

Our team follows OSHA- and EPA-aligned practices for asbestos and lead abatement. Asbestos is wetted during removal, double-bagged, or kept wet until sealed, and then sent to licensed facilities for disposal.

For lead-based coatings, we use methods that minimize dust (often chemical stripping) and seal all waste for specialized disposal. 

6. Site Remediation & Restoration

After removal, we restore affected areas: repairing, cleaning, and preparing spaces for safe re-occupancy or continued renovation.

7. Documentation & Peace of Mind

What sets EDG apart is our attention to detail and commitment to your peace of mind. At the end of every project, we provide a clean letter certifying your site is free of hazardous waste. 

Along with that, you’ll receive manifests and disposal records detailing:

• What materials were removed

• When and how they were removed

• Where they were taken for disposal