Yes, our service is fully compliant with UK legislation, including the Environmental Protection Act, the Hazardous Waste Regulations, and Controlled Drugs (Supervision of Management and Use) Regulations, ensuring lawful and responsible management of pharmaceutical waste.
Pharmaceutical Waste Management Guidelines
In the realm of pharmaceutical waste management, adherence to specific regulations and laws is essential for ensuring the safety of both human health and the environment. Waste King is committed to guiding businesses through the complexities of these regulations. The primary legislations governing the storage and disposal of pharmaceutical waste include:
- Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005
- Controlled Waste Regulations 2012
- Environmental Protection Act 1990
Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 Overview
The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005, as defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), categorise waste as hazardous if it contains substances or possesses properties potentially harmful to human health or the environment. A significant portion of pharmaceutical waste falls under this category, necessitating strict adherence to these regulations for disposal.
Businesses generating over 500kg of hazardous waste annually must register with the Environment Agency. It is imperative to store pharmaceutical waste securely and separately from non-hazardous waste to prevent cross-contamination. Furthermore, businesses are obligated to ensure the safe disposal of hazardous pharmaceutical waste through a licensed carrier.
Understanding the Controlled Waste Regulations 2012
This regulation mandates the proper control and disposal of all waste, labeling it as ‘controlled waste’. It underscores the importance of compliance with the Environmental Protection Act in managing waste responsibly.
Environmental Protection Act 1990 Essentials
Focused on minimising environmental harm, this act imposes a duty of care on entities involved in producing, transporting, or disposing of waste. Adherence ensures that pharmaceutical waste disposal does not adversely affect land, water, or air quality.
Secure storage of pharmaceutical waste is crucial, with access restricted to authorised personnel only. Waste must be contained in suitable pharmaceutical waste containers to prevent leakage or spillage. When transferring waste to a carrier, it’s necessary to verify their licensing and provide a waste transfer note. This document should include:
- A detailed description of the waste, including the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) code (e.g., EWC code for medicine is 18 01 09).
- Information on how the waste was stored or packaged.
- The quantity of waste.
- Date and location of transfer.
- Personal details of the involved parties (name, address, and license).
- Business details, including the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code.
It is crucial to navigate these overlapping regulations with care to ensure compliance in the storage and disposal of pharmaceutical waste. Failure to do so can result in severe penalties, including substantial fines and potential imprisonment, underscoring the importance of diligent waste management practices to protect both the environment and your business.
