Hazardous Waste
Summary
Hazardous waste is waste that poses a risk to human health or the environment due to its chemical, physical or biological properties. This may include waste that is toxic, corrosive, flammable, reactive or otherwise harmful if not managed correctly.
Definition
Hazardous waste is waste that contains substances or characteristics that make it potentially dangerous to people, property or the environment. This can include contaminated soils, industrial by-products, chemical wastes, asbestos-containing waste and other materials requiring specialised management.
Whether a material is classified as hazardous waste is determined through waste classification processes that consider site history, material characteristics and, where required, laboratory testing.
Why Hazardous Waste Matters
From a health and environmental perspective, hazardous waste can cause serious harm if mismanaged. Improper handling or disposal can result in exposure risks, contamination of land or water and long-term environmental impacts.
From a regulatory standpoint, hazardous waste is tightly controlled. Incorrect classification, transport or disposal can result in significant penalties, enforcement action and liability for waste generators and landowners.
For construction, remediation and earthworks projects, hazardous waste classification directly affects project cost, methodology and program. Early identification of hazardous waste allows appropriate disposal pathways to be planned and avoids delays once works are underway.
When Hazardous Waste Is Typically Identified
Hazardous waste is commonly identified where:
Contaminated soil or fill is excavated during development or remediation
Asbestos-containing materials are removed
Industrial or chemical residues are present
Waste materials exceed regulatory thresholds for contamination
Regulatory authorities require formal waste classification
Hazardous waste determination is typically supported by sampling and laboratory analysis.
Typical Examples of Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste may include:
Asbestos-containing waste
Heavily contaminated soil or sludge
Chemical residues and industrial waste
Materials containing high concentrations of heavy metals
Certain process wastes or by-products
Management requirements vary depending on waste type and risk.
Legislative and Regulatory Context
Hazardous waste is regulated under environmental protection and waste management legislation.
In New South Wales, hazardous waste is defined and managed in accordance with EPA waste classification guidelines and associated legislation. Disposal is restricted to licensed facilities authorised to receive hazardous waste. Similar regulatory frameworks apply across Australia.
Regulators expect hazardous waste classification and management decisions to be supported by appropriate assessment and documentation.
How We Can Help
Confluence Environmental provides hazardous waste classification and advisory services as part of contaminated land and remediation projects.
Our services typically include:
Assessment and classification of hazardous waste
Sampling and laboratory testing to support classification
Advice on handling, transport and disposal requirements
Documentation to support regulatory compliance
Integration of waste management into remediation and construction planning
We focus on providing clear, defensible advice that supports compliant and efficient waste management.
Related Terms and Concepts
Waste Classification
Contaminated Land
Asbestos in Soil
Excavated Natural Material
Virgin Excavated Natural Material
Remediation Action Plan
Site Validation