Managing waste properly is essential for companies, industries, clinics, and hospitals. In addition to ensuring compliance with legislation, it reduces environmental impacts and avoids fines and legal issues. Below, we provide practical tips and clear explanations to help you avoid complications with waste.
1. Know the Types of Waste Generated
The first step is identifying the types of waste your company generates. They can be classified into:
- Common waste: paper, plastic, food scraps.
- Hazardous waste: chemicals, infectious materials, batteries.
- Recyclable waste: metal, glass, plastic packaging.
Each category requires different treatment and disposal methods.
2. Comply with Current Legislation
In Brazil, waste management is regulated by Law 12,305/2010, which establishes the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS). It requires companies to adopt:
- Solid Waste Management Plans (PGRS).
- Reverse logistics practices, especially for hazardous products.
Additionally, standards from ANVISA, ABNT NBR 10004 (waste classification), and state environmental regulations must be followed.
3. Create a Waste Management Plan (PGRS)
The PGRS helps organize and plan proper waste disposal. It should include:
- Waste identification: A list of everything generated in the company.
- Classification: Hazardous, recyclable, common.
- Storage methods: Boxes, specific bags, and drums for chemicals.
- Final destination: Recycling, treatment, incineration.
- Monitoring: Periodic disposal reports.
4. Establish a Segregation Routine
Properly separating waste at the source simplifies disposal and prevents contamination. Use appropriate and labeled containers, such as:
- Common waste: black or gray bins.
- Recyclable waste: blue (paper), red (plastic), green (glass), yellow (metal).
- Infectious waste: white bags with biohazard symbols.
- Sharps: yellow puncture-resistant collector boxes.
- Chemical waste: specific, well-sealed drums or containers.
5. Choose Reliable Waste Management Partners
Specialized companies like UTD Suzano offer comprehensive waste collection, transportation, and disposal services while complying with environmental regulations. Check if the partner has certifications, such as ISO 14001, and valid environmental licenses.
6. Train Your Team
Employees should know:
- How to separate waste.
- Risks associated with handling hazardous materials.
- The importance of proper disposal to avoid fines and environmental contamination.
Provide regular training sessions and explanatory manuals.
7. Practical Tips to Avoid Problems
- Conduct periodic audits to ensure proper management.
- Document everything, including proof of final disposal.
- Store waste in appropriate locations, away from circulation areas or food.
- Invest in technologies such as compactors and shredders to reduce waste volume.
8. Consequences of Inefficient Management
Poor waste management can result in:
- Heavy fines, potentially reaching millions of reais.
- Damage to the company’s reputation.
- Environmental problems, such as soil and water contamination.
- Risks to public health.
9. Benefits of Proper Management
- Compliance with the law, avoiding fines.
- Reduction of operational costs through practices like recycling.
- Improved company image with clients and partners.
- Contribution to a more sustainable environment.
10. Simple Step-by-Step Guide
- Assess the waste generated in your company.
- Implement source segregation.
- Create a PGRS and review it annually.
- Choose certified partners for transportation and disposal.
- Train your team regularly.
UTD Suzano: Complete Waste Solutions
We are specialists in waste management for companies, industries, clinics, and hospitals. From collection to final disposal, we ensure legal compliance, safety, and sustainability. Additionally, we are the only company in the sector with ISO 14001 certification.
Trust UTD Suzano to manage your waste and avoid problems.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help!
