4 Key Questions About Hazardous Waste Labels You Must Know

Hazardous waste is any waste material dangerous to human health or the environment. Effective hazardous waste labeling ensures safe handling, transportation, and disposal. Chemical factories, electronics manufacturers, medical device producers and other businesses, all should place hazardous waste labels correctly to warn and remind stakeholders and public of the potential risks. This post addresses 4 key questions on hazardous waste labels to aid compliance and management.

What is Hazardous Waste Identification? 

Based on characteristics of hazardous waste, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classify them into four types, including ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and toxic waste, All of them pose different risks to health and the environment. 

For example, used oil, solvents, pesticides and batteries are among most common hazardous waste.

Additionally, listed hazardous wastes are specifically identified by the EPA as hazardous due to their known or potential dangers. Examples include waste containing asbestos or dioxins.

What is Hazardous Waste Labeling Requirement?

EPA regulates hazardous waste labeling in the United States, and labeling of containers used for on-site accumulation of hazardous waste is a significant part of its labeling requirement.

According to its waste labeling requirement, all containers of hazardous waste must be properly labeled, like steel drums containing used oil, and totes containing medical waste.

The following information must be clearly and prominently displayed on the hazardous waste labels:

● The words "Hazardous Waste".

● The name and address of the generator.

● The date of initial accumulation.

● EPA waste code: Each EPA waste code represents a specific type of hazardous waste. For example, "D001" signifies hazardous waste containing flammable liquids.

● Manifest tracking number: Refers to a unique identification number used to track the transportation and disposal of hazardous waste.

● The composition and physical state of the waste.

● A statement highlighting the specific hazardous characteristics of the waste. For instance, "Biohazardous, Infectious".

What are Examples of Hazardous Waste Labels and Markings?

At first glance, hazardous waste labels come in many forms, and showcase a variety of colors. This diversity in color aids in the swift identification and handling of different hazardous waste types.

In terms of layout, while federal regulations set standards for hazardous waste management and labeling, states and counties may implement additional or more stringent requirements. This leads to variations in the design, content, and specifics of hazardous waste labels across different areas. Below we will share several common hazardous waste label examples.

Yellow labels on hazardous waste containers typically indicate the presence of reactive or oxidizing waste, warning of the potential for chemical reactions. 

Green hazardous waste labels, often suggest recyclable or less hazardous waste, indicating a safer, more environmentally friendly disposal option. 

Red labels are commonly used to signify flammable waste, highlighting risks of fire or explosion. In addition, medical waste is also often identified by red labeling. 

How to Print Hazardous Waste Labels?

Hazardous waste labels vary in size, and common sizes are 4x6 or 6x6 inches. Now they are easily available on shopping website like amazon. 

When it comes to printing these labels, factories and manufacturers often choose between two main types of waste label printers: direct thermal or thermal transfer printers. 

The latter, which uses carbon ribbons, is particularly effective for producing durable, water-resistant, oil-resistant, and fade-proof labels on a variety of materials, including adhesive-poly vinyl and coated paper. The printed waste labels meet legal standards.

HPRT provides users with high-quality thermal label printers and many hazardous waste label templates. Factories and manufacturers can use our free label design software HereLabel to easily edit these pre-designed label templates, simply fill in the correct information, then print them straightly.

These printed hazardous waste labels, non-hazardous waste labels are clear and professional, sticking well to the surface of waste containers, cylinders and drums.

We provide a diverse lineup of direct thermal and thermal transfer label printers, including portable and desktop models, to suit different operational needs.

HPRT is dedicated to providing innovative and reliable printing solutions for hazardous waste management. We offer both wholesale and customized OEM/ODM services to meet the unique requirements of businesses and manufacturers. 

Contact us now, and we're excited to partner with you, elevating your hazardous waste labeling to new heights of efficiency and compliance.