Is Waste Oil Considered Hazardous In Singapore

December 6, 2023

Under the Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA), waste oil is classified as a toxic industrial waste (TIW). This means that it is a waste that is likely to cause harm to human health or the environment if it is not managed properly.

There are several reasons why waste oil is considered hazardous. First, it can contain a variety of harmful chemicals, including heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and benzene. These chemicals can cause cancer, reproductive problems, and other health problems.

Second, waste oil can contaminate water supplies if it is poured down the drain or into a nearby water body. This can harm aquatic life and make the water unsafe for drinking.

Third, waste oil can pollute the soil if it is spilt or leaked. This can make the soil unusable for growing crops or raising livestock.

In Singapore, there are strict regulations in place for the management of waste oil. The purpose of these laws is to safeguard both the environment and human health.

Waste Oil Management in Singapore

Here are some of the requirements for managing waste oil in Singapore:

• Waste oil must be stored in leak-proof containers
• Waste oil must be labelled with a warning label
• Waste oil must be transported by a licensed waste collector
• Waste oil must be disposed of at a licensed waste treatment facility

Penalties for improper disposal of waste oil in Singapore can be severe. These penalties can include fines of up to S$50,000 and imprisonment of up to two years.

How to Handle Waste Oil Responsibly as a Business Owner?

As a business owner, it's crucial to handle waste oil responsibly to protect the environment and comply with regulations. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure proper waste oil management:

1. Identify and Segregate Waste Oil

• Types of Waste Oil: Recognize the different types of waste oil generated in your business, such as used motor oil, hydraulic oil, industrial lubricants, and cooking oil.
• Segregation: Separate waste oil from other liquids, such as coolants, solvents, and water, to prevent contamination and ensure proper handling

2. Storage and Handling

• Leak-proof Containers: Store waste oil in labelled, leak-proof containers made of durable materials like non-reactive metals or high-density polyethylene.
• Secure Storage Area: Keep waste oil containers in a secure, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, ignition points, and potential spills.
• Spill Prevention: Implement spill prevention measures, including drip trays, absorbent pads, and spill kits, to promptly address any leaks.

3. Recycling and Disposal Options

• Recycling: Prioritize recycling of waste oil whenever possible. Find local recycling facilities or collection services that specialise in handling and processing used oil for re-refining.
• Disposal: If recycling is not feasible, dispose of waste oil through licensed hazardous waste disposal companies. Ensure the disposal process adheres to environmental regulations and industry standards.

4. Recordkeeping and Compliance

• Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of waste oil generation, storage, transportation, and disposal activities.
• Comply with Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal regulations governing waste oil management. Comply with all applicable regulations to avoid penalties and environmental harm.

5. Employee Training and Awareness

• Educate Employees: Train employees on proper waste oil handling procedures, including identification, segregation, storage, and spill response.
• Raise Awareness: Foster a culture of environmental responsibility within your workforce by emphasising the importance of proper waste oil management.

By implementing these responsible waste oil management practices, you can protect the environment, comply with regulations, and enhance your business's reputation.

Conclusion

It is important to dispose of waste oil properly to protect human health and the environment. If you have waste oil, you can contact a licensed waste collector to dispose of it for you. If you need help disposing of your waste oil, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!