WASTE OIL/USED OIL
Examples of waste oils include:
- used engine (sump) oil
- gear oil
- differential oil
- automatic transmission fluid/hydraulic oil
- brake fluid and other related products e.g. used oil filters.
Potential hazards
Waste oils should never be tipped down stormwater drains or sewers, tipped onto soil or burnt. One litre of oil can contaminate up to one million litres of water.
Waste oils contain materials and properties that may harm human health and the environment if not managed properly. Examples of potential hazards are as follows:
- fire and explosion due to combustible nature
- slippery surface if spilt
- potentially toxic chemicals that can cause skin irritation or other health issues
- contamination of stormwater, land, surface water and groundwater.
Storage
Store waste oils:
- In clearly labelled, good-quality bulk tanks or drums in an enclosed (bunded) area, preferably under a roof, or on spill containment pallets or other self-bunded storage units. If a roof is not provided, the containers should be enclosed to ensure that rainwater is not able to get in. Fit tanks with a graduated dipstick or a similar device that would allow the operators to assess the volume of liquid stored in the tank easily.
- In a double-skinned tank which already has integrated bunding and offers appropriate spill protection.
- In a separate designated area with a flat, impervious surface.
- Away from heat and potential ignition sources and stormwater drains.
Ensure that waste oil containers are not cut with any heat-producing equipment.
Spill kits should be readily available in the waste oil storage area.
Ensure that the waste oils are regularly collected by waste oil contractors to avoid build-up of large volumes of oil onsite.
Display Hazchem sign at front of the entrance.
Transport, recycling and disposing of waste oils
It is the responsibility of the auto recycling site operator to ensure that all waste (including waste oil) generated at the site are transported, recycled or disposed of appropriately. Therefore, practice caution when hiring a contractor to dispose of your waste oil. Check that they hold the required permits and maintain copies of waste transport certificates and other transaction records
Dispose of waste oils using an appropriately permitted transporter accompanied by transport documentation and ensure it is taken to a lawful place.
Recycle used oil filters, do not dispose into landfill.