We handle and transport hazardous waste through an intensely regulated processes that requires strict compliance with all environmental and safety standards. Hazardous waste transportation — an essential service in Alberta, where industrial processes are complemented by a commitment to stewardship of the land and air. Industrial solvents, contaminated soil and medical waste — each needs to be moved with surgical precision and in compliance with provincial and federal regulations.
In Alberta, the responsibility for the tracking of hazardous waste from one site to another rests with several hands, from the generator of the waste to the licensed carrier to the site where the waste is eventually disposed. All chain parties must be accredited and act on approved procedures to reduce environmental and health hazards. All hazardous waste transporters are required to register with the Alberta government and comply with the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act that governs the handling of dangerous materials. Not adhering to these standards may lead to heavy fines or cancellation of transport permits.
Safe transport of hazardous materials starts with correct classification. Materials must be properly identified and labelled to conform to Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) regulations. These include sealing containers, having containers leak- or spill-resistant and labeling them with the proper hazard signs. This not only is essential for safety but also allows for rapid response in case of emergencies so you first responders can respond accordingly.
Documentation is another very important part of hazardous waste transportation within Alberta. It’s also a requirement that all shipments include what’s known as a manifest, describing the type, quantity and origin of the waste and its destination. Such paperwork ensures traceability and accountability and certifies that waste is treated or disposed of at a licensed facility. The system also assists Alberta in tracking and detecting trends and possible regulatory violations or environmental threats.
Training is not something you can negotiate in safe hazardous waste transportation. Drivers and personnel who handle these materials must undergo specialized training and remain apprised of changing regulatory requirements. Because of this, you learn how to handle waste correctly (i.e., the use of protective equipment and emergency response and (best) practices for loading and unloading waste.
In addition, as awareness of environmental impacts and sustainability grows, companies are being challenged to report and do more than comply; to innovate. Technologies such as GPS tracking and digital recordkeeping help ensure better oversight, and mitigate the risk of mishandling. Several operators are investing in more sustainable equipment and practices, such as minimizing waste; the transportation of hazardous waste in Alberta has aligned with these larger environmental goals.
So as you can see, the actual process is so much more than just transporting trash from point A to point B. It is an extremely controlled operation that takes very careful planning, coordination and execution. For businesses, adherence to the rules ultimately means not only following the rules, but also fulfilling its fundamental obligation to society, through measures ensuring public safety and environmental stewardship, two tenets of Alberta’s continued commitment towards responsible resource development.
Mike Gibbs is the author of this article. For more details about Land restoration services Alberta please visit our website: whiterocktrucking.ca