Waste Classifications Report | Waste Soil Classification

What is Waste Classifications?

This page is not intended to be a substitute for professional geotechnical advice and should not be relied on as geotechnical advice by individuals or other professionals to make site-specific decisions. Always seek advice from professional geotechnical engineers.

Waste classification is the process of categorising waste based on its properties, composition, and potential hazards. This classification is essential for proper handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste materials.

In general, waste can be classified as hazardous or non-hazardous. Hazardous waste is waste that has the potential to cause harm to human health or the environment. This type of waste requires special handling, storage, transportation, and disposal procedures to prevent exposure to harmful materials.

Non-hazardous waste, on the other hand, is waste that does not pose a significant risk to human health or the environment. This type of waste can be managed and disposed of through conventional waste management practices, such as landfilling, incineration, or recycling.

Waste can also be classified based on its physical and chemical properties, such as its flammability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. This classification helps to determine the appropriate handling and disposal methods for the waste.

In Australia, waste classification is governed by various regulations, including the Waste Classification Guidelines and the National Environment Protection (Movement of Controlled Waste Between States and Territories) Measure. These regulations outline the requirements for the classification, handling, transportation, and disposal of waste materials.

Regulatory-Compliant Waste Solutions

BHM’s environmental engineering team has extensive experience in waste management and classification, and they can assist clients in properly identifying, managing, and disposing of waste materials in compliance with regulatory requirements. Their expertise in waste management and environmental science ensures that clients receive the highest level of service and the most effective solutions for their waste management needs.

The soil classifications are: Excavated natural material (ENM), Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM), General Solid Waste (GSW), Restricted Solid or Hazardous Waste. Significant penalties apply for inappropriate disposal of contaminated soils and disposal costs can be significant, it is recommended that this factor be addressed early on in the construction timeline.

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Have Questions? Let’s Clear Them Up

Soil waste classifications determines which classification applies to your waste prior to disposal as per the EPA Waste Classification Guidelines.
Soil waste classification involves sampling soil in-situ or from stockpiles, the samples are then taken to a NATA accredited laboratory where they are tested for a variety of contaminants. A report is then produced from the results obtained from the laboratory and the soil is classed in accordance with the EPA Waste Classification Guidelines.
Any asbestos found within the sampled soil may affect the waste classification within the report.
Soil that is classified as Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM) or Excavated Natural Material (ENM) may be suitable for reuse.