Each year, billions of tons of industrial waste are produced in the United States, and its disposal is incredibly critical. There is hazardous and non-hazardous waste, and ensuring proper and safe disposal is essential for waste management workers, the public, and even the environment. Understanding the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous waste is critical. If you have been injured due to the improper disposal of waste, you may have the ability to seek workers’ compensation benefits. In some cases, legal action should be taken if negligence plays a factor in the damages victims are facing. A workers’ compensation lawyer may be one of your first steps towards taking legal action after such an accident.
Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste is any substance or material that can be harmful or cause a severe threat to a person, and the environment should exposure occur. Hazardous waste can involve several types of materials including gasses, liquids, and asbestos abatement, such as by Nielsen Environmental. As a business owner, it’s crucial to understand materials that are classified as hazardous waste to prevent causing harm. Typically hazardous waste is separated into four categories:
F List: Wastes that come from manufacturing/industrial and can include spent solvent waste, waste from wood preservation, petroleum refinery, wastewater treatment sludges, and more
K List: These toxins are source-specific meaning, they come from specific sectors of both the manufacturing and industrial industry. This might include industries such as chemicals, pesticides, wood, petroleum refining, explosives manufacturing, and more.
P List & U List: Are commercial grade chemicals that are toxic even at incredibly low levels. They must be appropriately disposed of, even when unused. Common examples of P List include acetamide, fluorine, nicotine, benzyl chloride. Common examples of U List toxins include acetone, benzene, lead acetate, mercury, methyl alcohol, and more.
Improper disposal of hazardous waste can be harmful to humans and the environment. Additionally, those exposed may face severe injuries that can cause severe problems over time.
Non-Hazardous Waste
Non-hazardous waste may not be harmful or pose a risk to the environment, but it must be properly disposed of. Non-hazardous waste should not be disposed of in the garbage or into sewer lines. It’s essential to be aware that while non-hazardous waste doesn’t necessarily pose a risk, it could cause problems if not correctly disposed of.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer
Managing a case that has resulted in injuries due to the improper disposal of hazardous waste calls for a lawyer’s assistance with experience in this particular area of practice. As a victim, you will need help deciphering how to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. While workers’ compensation may be a way of receiving financial assistance for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, it may not provide you with the full compensation you deserve. In some situations, victims may be able to take further legal action in the form of a personal injury lawsuit against negligent parties. To ensure that you receive supportive and sound legal counsel, you must seek guidance from an experienced lawyer in the area before taking action.
The disposal of industrial waste is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and provides the waste management industry with tools and regulations for industrial waste disposal. Were you exposed to hazardous waste due to improper disposal? Seeking workers’ compensation or taking legal action may be in your best interest. Contact an experienced lawyer to get started.