Do you generate hazardous waste? If so, are you ready for a regulatory inspection?
The Washington State Department of Ecology can conduct a hazardous waste compliance inspection at any time. Inspections can be scheduled or unannounced and occur at various UW sites throughout the year. Being prepared helps ensure compliance and keeps your workplace safe.
If Washington State Department of Ecology or another health and safety regulatory agency comes to your location, please contact UW Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) immediately at 206.543.7262.
We encourage units to focus on these three key areas to be inspection ready:
1. Make sure personnel training is up-to-date.
Inspectors often begin by checking employee training records. Make sure your records include all required safety training including personal protective equipment (PPE), and job-specific training. Training must be up-to-date and documented.
2. Make sure containers labeled, closed, and stored properly.
One of the most common violations is improperly labeled or open containers. To ensure compliance do this:
- Label all containers clearly with contents and hazards.
- Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
- Store materials properly according to safety protocols.
Regularly inspect your workspace and correct any issues immediately.
Visit the Chemical Waste page for more information about labeling waste containers and safely managing waste.
3. Be prepared to respond to questions during an inspection
Inspectors may ask what you’re working on, how you were trained, your standard operating procedures, or how you handle chemical waste. When responding:
- Be accurate, clear and concise. Answer the question that is asked accurately, clearly, and concisely and avoid unnecessary details which can result in misinterpretation or confusion among the inspectors
- Stick to what you know. If you’re unsure how to respond, it’s okay to say for example, “That’s not part of my role, but I can direct you to someone who knows.”
Please review the EH&S Hazardous Waste Checklist for additional guidance to help you be ready at any time for an inspection.
Additional inspections by other regulatory agencies are available on the Lab Safety Surveys and Inspections page.
