Identifying Flammable Waste in Your Surrey Home or Business

Flammable waste is a common yet hazardous material found in homes and businesses, requiring careful identification and handling. From everyday items like aerosol cans to specialized industrial chemicals, recognizing these materials is the first step toward ensuring safety and proper disposal. Here’s a guide to help you identify flammable waste in your environment and take the necessary precautions.

Flammable waste refers to materials that can easily catch fire under normal conditions. These items often have a low flash point, meaning they ignite at relatively low temperatures. Flammable waste can be found in solid, liquid, or gaseous forms, making it important to recognize and handle it appropriately to prevent fires, explosions, or environmental harm.

Many household items qualify as flammable waste, including:

• Aerosol Cans: Spray paints, cleaning products, and air fresheners.
• Paints and Solvents: Oil-based paints, paint thinners, and varnishes.
• Cooking Oils and Grease: While often overlooked, they are highly combustible.
• Cleaning Products: Alcohol-based cleaners and degreasers.
• Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are especially found in gadgets and electronics.
• Fuel Containers: Gasoline, kerosene, or propane tanks used for appliances or vehicles.

Businesses often produce larger quantities of flammable waste, including:

• Chemical Solvents: Frequently used in industrial cleaning or manufacturing processes.
• Oils and Lubricants: Motor oil or hydraulic fluids are used.
• Construction Materials: Adhesives, sealants, and roofing tar.
• Packaging Waste: Flammable plastics or materials with residue from hazardous substances.
• Medical Supplies: Alcohol wipes and certain pharmaceuticals.

How to Identify Flammable Waste

• Check Labels: Look for warnings such as “flammable,” “combustible,” or “keep away from heat.”
• Inspect Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Businesses should review MSDS for chemical properties.
• Smell and Appearance: Many flammable substances emit strong odors or have visible warnings (e.g., red labels).
• Review Usage: Evaluate the material’s use—if it involves heat or combustion, it’s likely flammable.
• Consult Professionals: If in doubt, seek advice from hazardous waste experts or local waste management services.

What to Do with Flammable Waste?

Once identified, flammable waste must be handled and disposed of properly to ensure safety.

• Storage: Keep flammable waste in well-ventilated, fireproof containers, away from heat sources.
• Disposal: Use professional hazardous waste disposal in Surrey to ensure compliance with local regulations.
• Prevention: Train employees or family members on proper handling to reduce risks.

 

Identifying flammable waste is the first step to managing it responsibly and preventing accidents. Knowing what qualifies as flammable waste and how to handle it can make all the difference, whether at home or in a business. If you’re unsure about disposal, contact Canadian Empire Recycling in Surrey hazardous waste management professionals for assistance.
Protect your environment and community by staying informed and proactive about flammable waste!