When a facility is preparing to shut down or undergo a significant transition, one of the most critical aspects is managing hazardous waste. That’s where working with the right waste disposal partner becomes essential.
Environmental consultants typically assist facilities in navigating compliance, risk assessment, and regulatory obligations. But when it comes to planning for and executing hazardous waste disposal, experienced teams like HWH Environmental play a key role.
We have created this guide to help you understand how environmental consultants and hazardous waste disposal companies collaborate during plant closures and similar episodic events.
The Plant Decommissioning Process
Plant decommissioning differs from plant closures in that it is subject to clear regulations regarding the removal of hazardous waste during the decommissioning process.
The goal is to retire industrial facilities while protecting the environment. Once decommissioned, the sites should be safe enough for future repurposing.
There are five steps to the plant decommissioning process:
- Planning
- Decontamination
- Demolition
- Waste Management
- Site Remediation
In the United States, decommissioning activities are governed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
While environmental consultants may conduct site assessments and manage regulatory communications, they often rely on specialized partners to plan and execute the actual disposal process.
That’s where HWH Environmental comes in.
Our team assists facilities in coordinating the safe removal and transportation of hazardous waste, ensuring that all materials are handled in compliance with EPA and DOT regulations.
Whether part of a closure, renovation, or equipment upgrade, HWH supports episodic events with safe, compliant hazardous waste disposal services.
Note: HWH Environmental does not do remediation, decommissioning of sites, or ground/water testing. We can consult on the disposal aspects of the waste and plan for episodic events that may coincide with plant closures or decommissioning.
Key Responsibilities of Environmental Consultants
Decommissioning a facility is challenging and tricky to navigate on your own. That’s why many businesses work with environmental consultants to guide them through shutting down operations without risking failed compliance.
Their expertise in identifying and mitigating potential environmental risks associated with plant closures enables facilities to reduce fines and expedite decommissioning timelines.
The first goal of environmental consultants is to conduct a comprehensive environmental assessment to identify potential contamination and environmental liabilities.
This includes checking for hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead-based paints, or chemical residues. If found, you must work with a hazardous waste disposal company to remove them.
Once all hazards are identified, consultants develop detailed decommissioning plans that outline the necessary steps to address these issues.
As the decommissioning process progresses, the consultants provide oversight to maintain safety and compliance with government regulations. They may coordinate with stakeholders to obtain approvals and facilitate communication throughout the process.
Hazardous Waste Management in Decommissioning
A comprehensive site assessment is conducted to identify and categorize hazardous materials present within the facility. Understanding the extent of the contamination enables easier planning for removal.
The removal and disposal of hazardous materials are carried out in strict compliance with environmental regulations. This includes the safe extraction of contaminants and their transportation to designated disposal facilities.
An approved hazardous waste disposal facility is required to complete this step. The team at HWH Environmental helps remove, dispose, and/or transport hazardous waste out of your facility to keep your business compliant with government regulations.
The Consultant–Disposal Company Partnership
Here’s how environmental consultants and hazardous waste teams typically collaborate during episodic events, such as plant closures.
Consultant Assessment
Environmental consultants assess the site and identify potential hazardous materials.
Disposal Planning
HWH Environmental works with the consultant or facility to develop a disposal strategy that meets all regulatory requirements.
Waste Removal
Our team coordinates the proper labeling, transportation, and disposal of all hazardous materials.
HWH doesn’t handle remediation, decommissioning, or environmental testing, but we’re a trusted partner for the waste disposal portion of these processes.
Need Help with Your Hazardous Waste? Call HWH Environmental Today
If your facility is facing closure or decommissioning, trust the experts at HWH Environmental to handle your hazardous waste disposal.
Contact us today for a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible solution.
