While renovations can be exciting for businesses, property owners may find a mess of hazardous waste at an old site. From old paint cans to asbestos-filled insulation, these remnants of the past can pose severe health and environmental risks if not properly disposed of. That’s where waste removal companies work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that these hazardous materials are safely and responsibly taken care of.
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Typical Hazardous Wastes from Renovations and Old Buildings
Renovations and demolitions of older buildings often unearth a wide range of hazardous materials. Some common ones we find are listed here.
Asbestos
A fibrous mineral once hailed for its heat resistance and durability; asbestos has been commonly found in insulation, floor tiles, and roofing materials from the early 1980s back to the 1930s. Prolonged exposure to this carcinogenic substance can lead to severe lung diseases.
Lead
Old paints and varnishes often contain lead, another potent neurotoxin that is particularly dangerous to children.
Chemical Waste
Solvents, adhesives, old cleaning products, and other types of chemical waste are other hazardous materials that can lurk in old buildings. These types of waste can contaminate soil and water and can also pose health risks if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Mercury
Discarded fluorescent tubes and old electronic devices can contain mercury, a toxic heavy metal.
Old Batteries
Batteries often contain harmful acids and lead. If not handled properly, these electronic wastes or e-waste can leach harmful substances into the environment.
While the potential hazards may seem overwhelming, a professional waste removal company can safely handle and dispose of these materials, mitigating the risks associated with renovation or demolition.
The Role of a Waste Removal Company
Waste removal companies are often the unsung heroes of a renovation or demolition project. These experts are equipped with the specialized knowledge, skills, and tools to properly identify, collect, transport, and dispose of the different types of hazardous waste that can be unearthed during renovations.
They don their protective gear, carry out detailed inspections of the site, and prepare a plan that aligns with local regulations and environmental guidelines for safe disposal. The goal is not just to clean up the site but to prevent potential contamination and health risks once the public has access to the newly renovated space.
They also ensure that all necessary documentation is in order, including waste disposal records and permits, providing stakeholders and businesses peace of mind that their waste has been disposed of legally and responsibly. All in all, waste removal companies play a critical role in safeguarding public health and the environment.
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Asbestos and Lead Disposal
When it comes to asbestos and lead disposal, there’s no room for shortcuts or guesswork. Asbestos needs to be wetted down during removal to prevent airborne particles, then double-bagged and sealed for transport. Certified waste disposal sites accept these materials, ensuring they’re properly contained.
For lead-based paints, it’s about more than just scraping off old layers. Often, the process involves using a chemical stripper to carefully remove the paint without releasing lead dust. Lead-contaminated waste must be collected, sealed in heavy-duty bags, and taken to a specialized disposal facility.
In both cases, the utmost caution is needed to prevent exposure. That’s why waste removal companies are well-trained in these processes, using state-of-the-art protective equipment and strict protocols to ensure safety. They’re also knowledgeable about the various state and federal regulations surrounding asbestos and lead disposal, ensuring all steps taken are compliant.
Hazardous Waste Disposal in Cincinnati
Contact Environmental Demolition Group or call 859-363-4863 to learn more about how our team has the expertise and operations to complete hazardous waste disposal. This includes asbestos removal and other services in the Cincinnati area and anywhere in the Midwest or Mid-Atlantic states.
