|
The responsibility for the proper management of
waste is jointly held by the waste generator and the Environmental
Management Division (EMD)
of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). The generators must
correctly identify, treat, package and handle wastes generated
within their facilities. EMD/EHS is
responsible for the disposal of waste materials subsequent to
collection by EMD/EHS personnel.
Definition of Waste Generator: Waste generators
are those who have the authority to obtain and use chemicals,
radioactive materials, biohazardous agents, controlled substances
and material which may become municipal waste. Unless EMD/EHS
is advised otherwise in writing, the Laboratory Custodian is
considered to be the waste generator for a particular laboratory.
Responsibilities of Waste Generator: The
generator is responsible for the initial classification, treatment,
temporary storage, packaging, labeling and handling of waste
materials. Appropriate documentation must accompany waste for
EMD/EHS pick-up. The generator is responsible for the safe storage
of waste until it is in the custody of EMD/EHS. Waste generators
are responsible for compliance with regulations when utilizing
any waste disposal means that doesn’t involve consignment
of the waste to EMD/EHS or when opting for disposal of materials
as municipal wastes.
Responsibilities of EMD/EHS: EMD/EHS is primarily responsible
for developing and providing waste management policies, procedures,
and guidelines for the definition, classification, treatment,
storage and disposal of various wastes. EMD/EHS will also assist
and advise waste generators in the selection of procedures and
methodologies to be employed when treating, segregating and handling
waste materials for disposal. Additionally, EMD/EHS will provide
waste generators with forms and certain packaging materials.
EMD/EHS will dispose of waste materials in its custody in accordance
with appropriate regulations or accepted prudent practices. The
policy of EMD/EHS is to assure that waste is collected within
three days of notification. The arrangement for pick-up is made
upon mutual agreement between the generator and EMD/EHS. |
