Hazardous Waste Management Policy

Policy Statement

An-Najah National University is committed to managing hazardous waste activities under its control to the highest standards of safety and environmental protection. The university will take all reasonable and practicable measures to minimize harm to human health and the environment, ensuring that hazardous waste management aligns with international best practices and complies with all applicable local, national, and international regulations.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Protect the health and safety of faculty, staff, students, and visitors by ensuring the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste, including chemical, biological, and radioactive materials.
• Minimize the environmental impact and potential liabilities associated with hazardous waste disposal.
• Ensure full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines governing hazardous waste management.
• Foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability across the university community.

Scope

This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, contractors, and visitors involved in activities that generate, handle, or dispose of hazardous waste at An-Najah National University. It covers all forms of hazardous waste, including but not limited to chemical, biological, radioactive, and mixed waste streams.

Definitions

• Hazardous Waste: Any waste material that poses a significant risk to health or the environment, including chemical waste, biological waste, radioactive waste, and materials contaminated with hazardous substances.
• Chemical Waste: Waste composed of harmful chemicals that can cause injury or death to living organisms.
• Biological Waste: Waste that is infectious or potentially infectious, such as laboratory cultures, tissues, and sharps.
• Radioactive Waste: Waste containing radioactive substances that can cause radiation exposure.

Responsibilities

• Public Safety Office: Oversees the implementation and enforcement of this policy, including the development and periodic review of procedures for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. It is also responsible for coordinating training and compliance audits.
• Departments and Laboratories: Responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste generated within their areas is managed in accordance with university policies and procedures. This includes proper labeling, storage, segregation, and timely communication with the Public Safety Office.
• Employees and Students: Must adhere to this policy and complete all required training on hazardous waste management. They are responsible for following safe practices in handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous waste.

Best Practices

1. Waste Minimization
   • Substitution of Less Hazardous Materials: Actively seek and implement the use of non-hazardous or less hazardous materials in place of more dangerous substances where feasible.
   • Process Optimization: Design processes to minimize the generation of hazardous waste, including optimizing material use and improving efficiency.
   • Recycling and Reuse: Identify and implement opportunities to recycle and reuse materials to reduce the overall volume of hazardous waste generated.
2. Handling and Storage
   • Labeling: Ensure all hazardous waste containers are clearly labeled with the type of waste, associated hazards, and the date the waste was first added.
   • Storage Requirements: Store hazardous waste in suitable, approved containers that are compatible with the waste type. Containers must be kept in designated, secure areas equipped with appropriate containment measures, such as secondary containment systems for liquids.
   • Waste Segregation: Strictly segregate different types of hazardous waste to prevent chemical reactions and ensure safe disposal. Chemical, biological, and radioactive wastes must be stored separately.
3. Disposal Procedures
   • Approved Disposal Methods: The university will only use licensed and certified disposal facilities for hazardous waste. All transportation and disposal processes must comply with applicable regulations, and detailed records must be maintained.
   • Special Waste Streams: Implement specific procedures for handling and disposing of high-risk hazardous waste, including radioactive materials, highly toxic chemicals, and biohazardous materials.
   • Documentation and Record-Keeping: Departments must maintain comprehensive records of all hazardous waste activities, including generation, storage, and disposal, to ensure transparency and accountability.
4. Emergency Preparedness and Response
   • Spill Response Plan: Develop and maintain a comprehensive spill response plan that outlines procedures for containing and cleaning up hazardous waste spills. All personnel must receive training on spill response procedures.
   • Emergency Equipment: Ensure that appropriate spill containment and cleanup equipment is readily available in all areas where hazardous waste is handled or stored. Equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained.
5. Training and Awareness
   • Mandatory Training: All personnel involved in the generation, handling, or disposal of hazardous waste must complete mandatory training on the university’s hazardous waste management procedures. This training will be refreshed at regular intervals to maintain compliance and awareness.
   • Ongoing Awareness Programs: The university will conduct regular awareness programs to educate the university community on the importance of hazardous waste management, including best practices and individual responsibilities.
6. Compliance and Audits
   • Regular Inspections and Audits: The Public Safety Office will conduct regular inspections and audits of all areas where hazardous waste is generated or stored to ensure compliance with this policy and all applicable regulations. Audit findings will be documented, and corrective actions will be implemented as needed.
   • Non-Compliance and Corrective Action: Any non-compliance with this policy will be promptly addressed. Corrective actions will be taken to prevent recurrence, and repeated violations may result in disciplinary measures.

Review and Continuous Improvement

The university is committed to the continuous improvement of its hazardous waste management practices. This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently as required, to ensure it remains effective and aligned with the latest regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

Effective Date: October 12, 2016

Review Date: Jun 18, 2024