Hazardous Waste Management
Heliopolis University | SDG 12 – 2025
Purpose and scope
Provide a framework for the identification, separation, safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste arising from university activities. This policy applies to relevant university operations and participants.
Policy measures
- Identify hazardous waste streams and consult applicable safety data and legal requirements before handling.
- Separate incompatible wastes at source; use suitable, clearly labelled containers and designated storage areas.
- Limit handling to trained personnel using appropriate protective equipment and documented procedures.
- Arrange collection, transport and final treatment through appropriately authorized providers as applicable; keep handover and disposal records.
- Establish incident, spill and emergency response procedures appropriate to each waste stream.
Responsibilities and review
Relevant safety, laboratory, healthcare and facilities teams coordinate the safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste.
Classification and segregation: Hazardous waste may include chemical residues, contaminated materials, sharps, clinical waste, pharmaceuticals, electronic waste and other regulated materials. Waste producers should identify the relevant hazard, consult safety data sheets and keep hazardous waste separate from general and recyclable waste at the point of generation.
Packaging and storage: Use compatible, closed and clearly labelled containers appropriate to the material and hazard. Separate incompatible chemicals, provide secure designated storage and control access. Sharps should be placed in suitable puncture-resistant containers. Storage conditions and time limits should follow the applicable regulations and the university’s safety procedures.
Handling and transport: Only trained and authorised personnel should handle hazardous waste, with suitable protective equipment and procedures. Arrange transfer through appropriately authorised providers; retain records of the waste type, quantities, collection date, receiving organisation and final treatment or disposal. Do not mix hazardous waste into ordinary recycling or municipal waste.
Incident response and training: Procedures should address spills, exposure, fire and other incidents, including immediate isolation, reporting and access to emergency equipment. Staff and students who generate or handle hazardous waste should receive relevant instruction, and responsibilities should be assigned to laboratory, healthcare, safety and facilities teams. Oversight: Maintain an inventory and inspect storage areas, containers, training records and contractor documentation. Applicable Egyptian requirements and permitted treatment routes must be verified by the competent university specialists.
