If you own a business, you need to pay close attention to the waste that's generated at your worksite. Many business owners plan for their basic waste needs, which usually include paper, plastics, and other common waste products. But, some businesses need to plan for more than just this. This is especially true where hazardous waste materials are concerned. Unfortunately, many business owners don't know how to determine their hazardous waste management needs. If you fall into that category, it's time to take a closer look at the type of waste your business is generating. Here are four ways to identify hazardous waste at your worksite. If you can answer yes to any of the questions listed below, it may be time to implement a hazardous waste management program for your place of business. 

Is It Toxic? 

When you're trying to identify potentially hazardous waste materials at your place of business, the first thing you need to do is consider the toxicity. If you're tossing toxic materials into your normal trash receptacle, you could be contaminating the groundwater supply. Toxic materials should always be part of a hazardous waste management program. 

Is It Flammable?

When you're implementing a hazardous waste management program at your place of business, you need to consider the flammable nature of your waste materials. There are a variety of materials that are ignitable or flammable. You can determine flammability by considering three factors. First, is the material a liquid with a flashpoint, such as gasoline, or acetone? Second, is it a solid that can spontaneously combust? Finally, is it an oxidizer or compressed gas? If so, you need to implement a hazardous waste management program. 

Is It Reactive?

When you're planning for your hazardous waste management program, be sure you're protected against explosions. Explosions can occur when you're dealing with reactive waste. A waste material is reactive when it comes in contact with water, or other reactive material and explodes. Another type of reactivity you need to worry about is when materials cause the release of toxic gasses when they come in contact with water. If your place of business deals with reactive materials, you need to implement a hazardous waste management program. 

Is It Corrosive?

Finally, when considering your need for a hazardous waste management program, look at the corrosive nature of the waste your business generates. Corrosive materials can eat through standard waste containers, which means they should never be placed with your daily waste products. Corrosive materials include substances like battery acid, rust remover, or hydrochloric acid. If your business processes materials like the ones listed above, it's time to start a hazardous waste management program.

Contact a hazardous waste management service for more information.