Are you planning to undertake a major building repair job in your older home? Chances are high you are going to generate a lot of waste that you will need to remove from the property. The problem with the waste generated from older buildings is that it may comprise hazardous materials that pose significant risks to human health and the environment if not handled and disposed of the right way. 

Some common examples of hazardous waste generated from building repair projects include asbestos-containing building products, lead-based paints, mercury switches and PCB caulking. Unlike other types of waste, hazardous waste can't be taken to landfills — it requires special handling to be disposed of correctly.

Here are various ways to get rid of your hazardous waste correctly.

1. Schedule a collection from your property.

If your local community or municipal council has specific days for the collection of hazardous waste, you should contact the local hazardous waste collection facility and let them know that you have hazardous waste that needs to be picked up from your property. 

Make sure that you acquaint yourself with the proper way to store the waste as it awaits collection. Many times, local hazardous waste collection facilities only accept waste that has been stored properly. 

The best thing with this option is you don't have to bother about transporting the waste from your property. However, you may be charged for this service.

2. Take the waste to a facility that accepts it.

If there are no local hazardous waste collection centres close to your home, you might need to locate a waste facility that accepts the waste and take it to them on your own. If you are going to choose this option, make sure that you are well-versed in the proper handling, storage and transportation of your specific type of hazardous waste.

3. Recycle your waste.

Several types of hazardous waste are recyclable. If there is a way that you can reuse your waste without exposing people and the environment to harm, take that route. If you have no use for the waste and it can be recycled, identify a facility that can recycle the waste and share it with them.

It's a no-brainer — recycling is the best method of disposing of hazardous waste.

Do you need help with your hazardous waste disposal needs? Contact a waste management expert to discuss your needs. They will review your needs and help you decide what will work best for you.