Hazardous waste legislation and regulations
Last updated on February 28, 2023The Environmental Management Act (EMA) prohibits the introduction of waste into the environment in a way that will cause pollution, except in accordance with a regulation, permit, approval or code of practice issued under the Act.
The Hazardous Waste Regulation (HWR) addresses the proper handling and disposal of hazardous wastes under the EMA.
Legislation guides and bulletins
These guides are provided as a resource:
- Hazardous Waste Legislation Guide (PDF, 4MB)
- Legislation Guide Update: Export and Import of Hazardous Wastes (PDF, 55KB)
- Legislation Guide Update: The Transportation of Hazardous Waste (PDF, 93KB)
- View bulletins and resources
Hazardous waste protocols and criteria
Protocol for leachable toxic waste characterization for samples containing cyanide
This protocol is a director approved variance for the determination and characterization of leachable toxic waste for cyanide. It authorizes the use of a variation of the BC MLEP to use 0.125 M NaOH for the analysis of cyanide only; US EPA Method 1311 is required to be used for the classification of leachable toxic waste for all substances other than cyanide.
Protocol for treated spent iron sponge
This protocol is approved for evaluation of treated spent iron sponge. Iron sponge consists of wood shavings or wood chips impregnated with hydrated iron oxide. It is used for removal of H2S in oil and gas processing operations. Exposure to H2S and mercaptans produces iron sulphides and iron mercaptides. Infused with these contaminants, the iron sponge is referred to as spent iron sponge.
Protocol for delisting residues from treatment or incineration of hydrocarbon contaminated hazardous waste soil
This procedure provides a delisting protocol for treated hydrocarbon contaminated soil for use by the Director designated under the Environmental Management Act.
Protocol for the management of residues from biologically treated hydrocarbon contaminated drill cuttings
This protocol addresses the management of residues from an approved biological treatment process for hydrocarbon contaminated drill cuttings that are hazardous waste due to the presence of waste oil, BTEX, naphthalene or PAH.
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