SS 603 : 2014

(ICS 13.030.01)

SINGAPORE STANDARD

Code of practice for hazardous waste

management
[Formerly CP 100]

Published by
SS 603 : 2014
(ICS 13.030.01)

SINGAPORE STANDARD
Code of practice for hazardous waste management

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this Singapore Standard may be
reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying and microfilming, without permission in writing from SPRING Singapore at the
address below:

Standards
SPRING Singapore
1 Fusionopolis Walk,
#01-02 South Tower, Solaris
Singapore 138628
Email : standards@spring.gov.sg

ISBN 978-981-4557-68-9
SS 603 : 2014

This Singapore Standard was approved by Chemical Standards Committee on behalf of the
Singapore Standards Council on 8 December 2014.

First published, 2004.

First revision and re-numbered as SS 603, 2014.

The Chemical Standards Committee, appointed by the Standards Council, consists of the following
members:

Name Capacity

Chairman : Dr Keith Carpenter Member, Standards Council

Deputy
Chairman : Dr Tay Kin Bee Individual Capacity
Secretary 1 : Ms Elane Ng Standards Development Organisation@Singapore
Chemical Industry Council
Secretary 2 : Ms Jillian Chin Standards Development Organisation@Singapore
Chemical Industry Council
Members : Prof Andy Hor Individual Capacity
Mr Khong Beng Wee Individual Capacity
Mr Koh Min Ee National Environment Agency
Mr Terence Koh Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Prof Lee Hian Kee National University of Singapore
Dr Lee Tong Kooi Chemical Metrology Division, Health Sciences
Authority
Mr Leong Kwai Yin Individual Capacity
Prof Leung Pak Hing Nanyang Technological University
Mr Lim Eng Kiat Individual Capacity
Mr Lim Kian Chye / Housing & Development Board
Mr Ng Eng Fu
Dr Lim Mong Hoo Individual Capacity
Dr Jerry Liu Jian Lin Singapore Water Association
Dr Loh Wah Sing Individual Capacity
Dr Ng Sek Yeo Singapore Polytechnic
Dr Parry Oei Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Ms Pamela Phua Singapore Paint Industry Association
Mr Seah Khen Hee Individual Capacity
Mr Tan Nguan Sen / PUB, the National Water Agency
Dr Lim Mong Hoo
Ms Bernice Tay SPRING Singapore
Co-opted
members : Assoc Prof Thomas Liew Individual Capacity
Mr Nee Pai How Individual Capacity
Mr Pitt Kuan Wah Individual Capacity

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The Technical Committee for Chemistry, appointed by the Chemical Standards Committee and
responsible for the preparation of this standard, consists of representatives from the following
organisations:

Name Capacity

Chairman : Mr Leong Kwai Yin Individual Capacity

Secretary : Ms Jillian Chin Standards Development Organisation@Singapore
Chemical Industry Council
Members : Mr Cheah Sin Moh Singapore Polytechnic
Ms Veronica Chow Ministry of Manpower
Dr Goh Chee Keong Singapore National Institute of Chemistry
Mr Aaron Kalaichelvan Industrial Gases Association of Singapore
Ms Khaw Xinhui Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Mr Koh Min Ee National Environment Agency
Prof Lee Jim Yang National University of Singapore
Mr Lei Zhi Pei Setsco Services Pte Ltd
Mr Collin Lim Chemical Industries (Far East) Limited
MAJ Lo Wai Mun Singapore Civil Defence Force
Mr New Chee Wee / Mr Lee Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Jian Ming
Ms Ong Kah Kee Eastman Chemical Singapore Pte Ltd
Mr Teah Choon Lee SPCI Pte Ltd
Dr Richard Yee Cheong Shin Health Sciences Authority
Koy Sien

The Working Group, appointed by the Technical Committee for Chemistry to assist in the preparation
of this standard, comprises the following experts who contributed in their individual capacity:

Name

Convenor : Mr Richard Reidinger

Secretary : Ms Jillian Chin
Members : Mr Au Wing-Kuen
Mr Koh Min Ee
Ms Jaime Lim
LTC Ng Geok Meng
Mr Ong See Hee
Mr Ong Wee Liang
Assoc Prof Ting Yen-Peng
Mr Michael Yan
Assoc Prof Liya Yu

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The organisations in which the experts of the Working Group are involved are:

Eco-Special Waste Management Pte Ltd

ExxonMobil Chemical Operations Pte Ltd
Ministry of Manpower
MSD International GmbH (Singapore Branch)
National Environment Agency
National University of Singapore
Singapore Civil Defence Force
Singapore Institution of Safety Officers
Vopak Terminals Singapore Pte Ltd

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Contents
Page

Foreword 6
1 General 8
2 Normative references 8
3 Definitions 8
4 Roles and responsibilities 10
5 Waste minimisation 10
6 Site management and handling of hazardous wastes 10
7 Treatment and disposal options 13
8 Emergency response 13
9 Facility maintenance 14
10 Training 14
11 Auditing requirements 15
12 Documentation/record keeping 15
13 Managing special waste and unique situations 15

Annexes
A List of hazardous characteristics (informative) 16
B Roles and responsibilities of the hazardous waste generator, carrier and licensed
collector (normative) 18
C Containers, storage and labelling (normative) 21
D Treatment processes for hazardous wastes (normative) 29

Tables
C.1 Chemical compatibility of common containers with different hazardous waste types 22
C.2 Examples of incompatible waste types 23
C.3 Compatibility chart 24
D.1 Matrix table for treatment processes 29

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Foreword

This Singapore Standard was prepared by the Working Group appointed by the Technical Committee
for Chemistry under the direction of the Chemical Standards Committee.

This standard is a revision of CP 100 : 2004 and has been re-numbered as SS 603 : 2014. The
revision includes updates on technology, process, and regulatory agencies in Singapore involved in
hazardous waste management.

Safe handling and proper disposal of hazardous wastes are essential elements of a total
environmental management programme. Mismanagement of hazardous wastes can cause safety,
health and environmental damage including the following:

(a) Contamination of water resources and watercourses;

(b) Pollution of the air;
(c) Fires and/or explosions;
(d) Poisoning of humans and animals via the food chain;
(e) Poisoning of humans and animals via direct contact.

In Singapore, a comprehensive, regulated programme has been in place since 1987 to control the
generation, collection, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of hazardous or toxic industrial
wastes. Over the years, industries have recognised proper management and handling of hazardous
wastes as an integral part of their manufacturing processes and plant operations.

Under the Environmental Public Health (Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations, specific types of
hazardous wastes generated from industries are listed in the Schedule of the Regulations for control
of toxic industrial wastes. The Regulations control the generation, collection, transportation, storage,
treatment (which includes recycling and recovery) and disposal of the listed toxic industrial wastes.

The import, export and transit of hazardous wastes are controlled under the Hazardous Waste
(Control of Import, Export and Transit) Act and its Regulations. This Act and its Regulations serve to
implement the requirements of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of
Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal. Under the Basel Convention, hazardous wastes are defined
as wastes generated from industrial processes or wastes having the hazard characteristics listed in
the Annex of the Convention.

In preparing this code, reference was made to the following publications:

1. ANSI Z400.1/ANSI Z129.1 : 2010 Hazardous evaluation and safety data sheet and precautionary
labeling preparation

2. NFPA 49 Hazardous chemicals data (2010)

3. Code of practice on packaging, labelling and storage of chemical wastes (Hong Kong - 2012)

4. The Basel Convention on the “Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and
their Disposal”, adopted by the Conference of the Plenipotentiaries on 22 March 1989 and
entered into force on 5 May 1992

5. SS 593 : 2013 Code of practice for pollution control

6. Code of practice on workplace safety and health (WSH) risk management (WSHC - 2012)

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Annex A of this standard is Annex III of the above-mentioned Basel Convention and is reproduced
with the permission from the Secretariat of the Basel Convention on the “Control of Transboundary
Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal”.

Acknowledgement is made for the use of information from the above references.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this Singapore Standard may be the
subject of patent rights. SPRING Singapore shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all of
such patent rights.

NOTE

1. Singapore Standards are subject to periodic review to keep abreast of technological changes and new
technical developments. The changes in Singapore Standards are documented through the issue of either
amendments or revisions.

2. Compliance with a Singapore Standard does not exempt users from legal obligations.

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Code of practice for hazardous waste management

1 General

1.1 Scope

This code on hazardous waste management sets out the procedures and practices for safe
management and handling of hazardous wastes generated from industrial, institutional and other work
activities. It also sets out the key regulatory requirements for collection, transportation, storage,
treatment and disposal of hazardous wastes. This code makes reference to bio-hazardous and
radioactive wastes and other specialised types of waste.

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of the code is to assist persons, organisations and industries involved in the generation,
collection, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of hazardous wastes to select and
implement appropriate, environmentally sound and safe waste management practices.

2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this code. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.

SS 532 Code of practice for the storage of flammable liquids

SS 586 Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and

dangerous goods

3 Definitions
For the purposes of this code, the definitions below apply.

3.1 Carrier

Carrier refers to any person undertaking the transport of hazardous waste.

3.2 Generator

Generator includes any person or facility whose act or process produces hazardous waste.

3.3 Hazardous wastes

Wastes are materials that can no longer be used for the purposes they were originally intended.
Hazardous wastes are wastes, which by their nature and quality may be potentially detrimental to
human health and/or the environment and which require special treatment and disposal. They may
be generated as undesirable by-products, process residues or spent reaction media, spent/used
chemicals, expired chemicals from manufacturing processes and plant operations, and other sources.
The wastes may take the form of solids, liquids, gases or sludge and would typically have serious
consequences to environment or public health if released into the environment.

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The list of toxic industrial waste is defined by the Schedule of the Environmental Public Health (EPH)
(Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations. In Singapore, this list of toxic industrial waste essentially defines
what a hazardous waste is. However, other wastes may also be considered hazardous. It is important
to consult National Environment Agency (NEA) on a case-by-case basis if there is any uncertainty if a
waste is hazardous or not.

Hazardous waste in the context of transboundary movements is also defined by the Basel
Convention. See Annex A for a list of hazardous characteristics as defined by the United Nations
Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UNRTDG), which also defines what
hazardous waste is under the Basel Convention.

3.4 Licensed toxic industrial waste collector (TIWC)

Licensed toxic industrial waste collector (TIWC) refers to any person or entity licensed under the EPH
(Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations to collect toxic industrial wastes. (See NEA’s website for a list of
TIWC and the application to become one.)

3.5 Risk assessment

Risk assessment is the process of evaluating the probability and consequences of injury, illness or
environmental impact arising from an identified hazard, and determining the appropriate measures for
risk control.

3.6 Shall

Indicates that the requirement is strictly to be followed in order to conform to the standard and from
which no deviation is permitted.

3.7 Should

Indicates that among several possibilities one is recommended as particularly suitable, without
mentioning or excluding others, or that a certain course of action is preferred but not necessarily
required.

3.8 Toxic industrial wastes

Toxic industrial wastes are types of hazardous waste that are defined and controlled under the EPH
(Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations. Generators should also note that besides waste listed under
these regulations, which are defined by their source and general characteristic as toxic industrial
waste, the regulations also state that any waste unable to meet the landfill criteria would be classified
as toxic industrial waste. The landfill criterion are currently benchmarked against the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test
and the limit values are reflected on NEA’s website.

3.9 Treatment of hazardous wastes

Treatment of hazardous wastes is defined as the application of physical, chemical, biological or

thermal process to render hazardous wastes non-hazardous or less hazardous so that they can be
transported, stored or disposed of safely.

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4 Roles and responsibilities

Company management is responsible for implementing a hazardous waste management system that
is in line with this code and in accordance with the relevant mandatory requirements. They are also
responsible for identifying person(s) within their facility/operation with the responsibility for
maintenance and management of waste disposal documentation. Every generator, carrier and TIWC
plays a vital role in ensuring safe disposal of hazardous wastes from the point of generation to final
disposal. See Annex B for details on the roles and responsibilities of generators, carriers and
licensed collectors.

5 Waste minimisation
Production of hazardous waste can result in both environmental damage and economic inefficiency.
The first step in good management of hazardous waste is therefore preventing these wastes in the
first place, followed by reduction, recycling, treatment, and disposal, in that order.

As a first step towards minimising hazardous wastes, a company should first evaluate the design of its
products to ensure that hazardous materials within the product, or required for the creation of the
product, are reduced or substituted. For this purpose, Design for Environment (DfE), whereby total
environmental impacts of products are considered at the design stage, may be achieved with the help
of tools such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).

At the facility level, manufacturing equipment should be installed which reduces use and waste of
hazardous materials such as solvent, oils, and heavy metals. High quality precision equipment may
cost more, but will tend to reduce off-specification product and manufacturing by-products which
would otherwise require disposal.

Where waste production is unavoidable, opportunities for recovery and recycling of high value
hazardous wastes should be explored and adopted where feasible, for example, solvent distillation
units are commonly used in pharmaceutical, electronics and chemical facilities.

For a facility already in production, a comprehensive waste management inventory, detailing the
sources, quantities, and characteristics of hazardous waste generated, is a critical first step to further
improvement. This will be followed by a waste prevention programme including specific key
performance indicators (KPIs), targets, actions and investments, and monitoring of outcomes.

6 Site management and handling of hazardous wastes

6.1 General

Hazardous waste management starts from the sites or facilities where hazardous wastes are
generated. A good site programme should be put in place to properly manage the transportation,
storage, handling, recycling, treatment, and/or disposal of such wastes. This should be included in the
site environment, health and safety management system.

The site should characterise its wastes into two broad categories, namely, hazardous wastes and
non-hazardous wastes.

6.2 Site policy

The site or facility management should establish a policy on hazardous waste management to ensure
that it:

(a) is appropriate to the nature of its operations, activities or services;

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(b) clearly defines accountability and responsibility in hazardous waste management;

(c) provides a framework for effective management of hazardous wastes in its facility; and

(d) is in line with the principles of the relevant regulatory requirements and legislation on
hazardous waste management.

6.3 Waste inventory, storage and treatment register

All hazardous wastes generated in the facility should be quantified and tracked. In addition, the
generator of the hazardous waste should keep a register of all the wastes that are being produced,
generated or treated at his premises. The reporting of wastes sent to licensed collectors is mandatory.
The register shall contain the following particulars in respect of hazardous wastes:

(a) Type and quantity generated;

(b) Date and the quantity supplied or sold to a licensed collector;

(c) Date and time of treatment and disposal; and

(d) Quantity of hazardous waste being stored.

The waste register will provide valuable information for waste reduction and minimisation as well as
for monitoring the movement of hazardous wastes within the facilities. The register will also help to
account for proper disposal of generated waste.

All hazardous waste generated in the facility should not be kept or used in the generator’s premises
unless there are on-site disposal facilities which are approved by NEA. Hazardous waste generated
on-site should be disposed of by a TIWC as soon as possible and site storage should be minimised.
Generators should ensure that the frequency of collection by a TIWC is based on the quantity of
hazardous waste, risk and characteristics of the waste and the area available for storage. Adequate
measures should be provided for the storage of hazardous waste in between collection periods (see
C.2).

6.4 Risk assessment

6.4.1 Risk assessments shall be conducted by the generator, carrier and TIWC. The risk
assessments should cover and address the following work activities: hazardous waste collection,
transportation, storage, recycling, treatment and disposal as well as accidents and incidents requiring
emergency response. Risk assessments also have to consider environmental impacts as a result of
the work activities.

6.4.2 Communications and consultations with internal and external stakeholders can garner key
information for use in risk assessments. Other sources of useful information include the waste
inventory, storage and treatment register, safety data sheets, process specifications etc.

6.4.3 Any person in the workplace who may be exposed to a risk during the process of managing
hazardous wastes shall be informed of the nature of the risk involved and any measure or safe work
procedure implemented, prior to starting work.

6.4.4 Risk assessments shall be reviewed at a periodic interval and revised as necessary. The
reviews should include the effectiveness and adequacy of controls and mitigating measures. Any
revision to the risk assessments shall be communicated to any person who may be affected by the
change or the risk.

6.4.5 All risk assessment records, including control measures, safe work procedures, reviews and
dissemination of information, shall be maintained by the generator, carrier and TIWC.

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For detailed guidance, refer to the Code of Practice on Workplace Safety and Health Risk
Management.

6.5 Waste container labelling

All containers used for storing hazardous wastes should be clearly labelled to identify the type of
wastes, key compositions, associated safety, health and environmental hazards, and recommended
personal protective equipment, if necessary.

The guidelines in the United Nations Globally Harmonised System (GHS) of Classification and
Labelling of Chemicals and SS 586 guidelines should be used as a reference for waste labelling and
any specific information on waste, generator or treatment.

A waste label should consist of information on waste type and pictogram(s) (red or black border)
indicating main hazards. Other information such as the signal word and/or waste characteristics
should be included where practicable.

See Annex C for more detailed guidance on hazardous waste labelling.

6.6 Hazardous waste handling and storage

6.6.1 Hazardous wastes should be carefully handled in a manner that prevents environmental
pollution and protects the workers and general public from being exposed to potential safety and
health hazards.

6.6.2 The generator should provide suitable areas for the collection and storage of hazardous
wastes. The waste collection area should be located close to the source of waste generation. The
storage area should be located with easy access for outside hazardous waste collectors, which
includes TIWCs, if waste is sent off-site for treatment and disposal.

6.6.3 Storage of hazardous wastes both at the generator’s and/or the TIWC’s site(s) should be in
accordance with basic chemical compatibility. Incompatible wastes should be properly segregated to
prevent inadvertent mixing which can result in unintended chemical reactions (see Tables C.2 and C.3
for a list of incompatible wastes). The waste collection and storage areas should be designed for the
proper drainage of storm or fire-fighting water. Consult NEA and Singapore Civil Defence Force
(SCDF) for further details.

6.6.4 The type of containers should be selected in accordance with the guidelines stipulated in
Annex C.

6.6.5 Appropriate measures shall be taken by the generator, collectors and treatment company to
eliminate and/or reduce the risks identified in the risk assessments referred to in 6.4.1. Appropriate
safety provisions shall be made for persons handling, collecting, transporting, storing, recycling,
treating and/or disposing of hazardous waste.

6.6.6 Safe work procedures shall be implemented for the handling, collection, transportation,
storage, recycling, treatment and disposal of hazardous waste. The safe work procedures include:

(a) identification of hazards to which persons at the workplace could be exposed;

(b) identification of injury or harm that could arise from the hazards identified;

(c) safety precautions to be taken in the course of work;

(d) provision of personal protective equipment; and

(e) procedures to be followed during an emergency.

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6.7 Licensed collectors

If there is no on-site hazardous waste treatment and disposal facility, the generator should identify off-
site TIWC companies approved by NEA to collect and dispose of the wastes. Generators should verify
the capability and competency of potential off-site hazardous waste collectors in handling their
wastes. Such assessments normally include a visit to the off-site waste treatment and disposal facility.

6.8 Transportation and preparing for off-site disposal

The transportation and disposal of hazardous wastes shall be in compliance with the relevant
regulatory requirements of Singapore. NEA and SCDF shall be consulted for further details.

Transportation shall be done in vehicles appropriate to the type of waste being collected, with
signage, spill prevention, and appropriately trained drivers and attendants. Transportation shall be
done along prescribed routes during the allowed time of day. Transport emergency response plans
should be prepared to cater for accidents or spillages of the material.

7 Treatment and disposal options

7.1 Many options are available for the effective management of hazardous wastes. The
application of treatment processes is one of the most widely used options for either eliminating
hazardous wastes or reducing the volume and hazards associated with it. Hazardous waste treatment
technologies are typically grouped into physical, chemical, biological and thermal processes (see
Annex D).

7.2 Treated hazardous waste should meet the landfill criteria (see 3.8) before being disposed of
at the government approved landfill sites.

7.3 Sites that treat hazardous wastes should be aware of the potential hazards that may arise
during the treatment process. Appropriate control measures to be implemented should be in
accordance with relevant environmental, health and safety guidelines, as set down by NEA, MOM and
SCDF.

8 Emergency response
8.1 The generator, collector and treatment companies should establish emergency response
plans and procedures to deal with on-site emergencies. Similarly, emergency plans and procedures
for off-site incidents involving hazardous wastes transportation should be established.

8.2 Companies should form a Company Emergency Response Team (CERT) to handle on-site
emergencies. Adequate on-site and off-site hazardous material emergency response training should
be provided for the CERT to effectively mitigate these incidents to minimise the adverse impact on
life, the environment and property.

8.3 The generator, carrier and TIWC should review and revise their emergency response plans
and procedures periodically or whenever there are changes in the nature of their business and
activities or relevant regulatory requirements so as to ensure that the said emergency response plans
and procedures are current and information therein is up-to-date.

8.4 The emergency response plans and procedures should address, but not be limited to, the
following:

(a) Chain of command for dealing with an emergency and notification requirements including
regulatory authorities (e.g. NEA, SCDF, Singapore Police Force), mutual aid and community;

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(b) Mitigation of environmental impacts from the incident;

(c) Outline the environmental monitoring activities during and after the incident;

(d) Pre-designated evacuation route(s) and assembly area(s);

(e) Location and contact numbers of the emergency command centre responsible for handling
the emergency;

(f) Details of the emergency and method of raising the alarm;

(g) Initial response arrangements for the hazardous waste incident;

(h) Establishment of training needs and maintenance programmes to ensure effective

implementation of the emergency plans; and

(i) Disposal of hazardous wastes arising from the incident.

8.5 The generator, carrier and TIWC should conduct regular exercises of all or part of its
emergency response plans and procedures to ensure that they are effective and their CERT is
operationally ready at all times.

9 Facility maintenance
Maintenance is critical to ensure that vehicles, equipment and facilities operate safely and to their
required specification in terms of waste throughput, process, and environmental control. The objective
is to improve the reliability, competitiveness, efficiency and operability of facilities. Good maintenance
will require:

(a) a preventative maintenance programme, to ensure that parts and equipment are maintained
prior to failure;

(b) repair of damaged, worn, non-functional, or otherwise degraded equipment to ensure it can
be brought back on-line in a timely and cost effective manner;

(c) regular and proactive upgrading of facilities to improve their performance, operational control,
waste throughput, and environmental emissions;

(d) risk assessment and change management of any major modifications; and

(e) sufficient manpower, technical, and financial resources to ensure the maintenance
programme and schedule can be effectively executed.

10 Training
All persons handling, collecting, transporting, storing, recycling, treating and/or disposing of
hazardous waste shall be informed of the means to eliminate and/or reduce the risks. They should be
adequately trained, competent at the task they are assigned to and be familiar with the safe work
procedures, to ensure that they are equipped with the appropriate knowledge and skills to work safely.

Companies are encouraged to consult with NEA, SCDF and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on courses
that may be required/recommended for that particular job scope.

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11 Auditing requirements

11.1 General

An audit will identify potential gaps in the handling and management of hazardous wastes so that
improvement plans can be implemented to avoid significant future liability and expenses. Audits
should be carried out both at generator site and TIWC by the respective operators and in accordance
with mandatory requirements, if applicable, and B.1 (h).

11.2 Competence of auditors

Audits should be conducted by knowledgeable and trained personnel. Audits should also be
conducted by an independent party who is not directly involved in facility operations.

11.3 Frequency of audits

Sites should be audited at a frequency appropriate to their activity and risk, or as prescribed by local
regulatory requirements.

11.4 Audit protocol

An appropriate audit protocol should be used.

12 Documentation/record keeping
The disposal of hazardous wastes, as defined under the code, generated by any facility shall be
documented. Documentation should be retained for an appropriate period, or as prescribed by
regulation. The documentation should include description of the wastes, characterisation analyses
where applicable, the volume or weight of the wastes, date of disposal, location of disposal, the waste
transportation and disposal certificates and identification of the company’s employee/s responsible for
the waste disposal.

13 Managing special waste and unique situations

13.1 Special waste

NEA shall be consulted for further information on radioactive waste, bio-hazardous waste, disaster
waste management, nano-materials and compressed hazardous gases.

13.2 Unique and unusual situations

NEA shall be consulted for unusual situations involving hazardous waste or materials which
potentially may be classified as hazardous waste, and which require case-by-case attention.

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Annex A
(informative)

List of hazardous characteristics

UN Code Characteristics
Class*
1 H1 Explosive
An explosive substance or waste is a solid or liquid substance or waste
(or mixture of substances or wastes) which is in itself capable by
chemical reaction of producing gas at such a temperature and pressure
and at such speed as to cause damage to the surroundings.

3 H3 Flammable liquids
The word "flammable" has the same meaning as "inflammable."
Flammable liquids are liquids, or mixtures of liquids, or liquids containing
solids in solution or suspension (for example, paints, varnishes,
lacquers, etc., but not including substances or wastes otherwise
classified on account of their dangerous characteristics) which give off a
o
flammable vapour at temperatures of not more than 60.5 C, closed-cup
o
test, or not more than 65.6 C, open-cup test. (Since the results of open-
cup tests and of closed-cup tests are not strictly comparable and even
individual results by the same test are often variable, regulations varying
from the above figures to make allowance for such differences would be
within the spirit of this definition.)

4.1 H4.1 Flammable solids

Solids, or waste solids, other than those classed as explosives, which
under conditions encountered in transport are readily combustible, or
may cause or contribute to fire through friction.

4.2 H4.2 Substances or wastes liable to spontaneous combustion

Substances or wastes which are liable to spontaneous heating under
normal conditions encountered in transport, or to heating up on contact
with air, and being then liable to catch fire.

4.3 H4.3 Substances or wastes which, in contact with water emit flammable
gases
Substances or wastes which, by interaction with water, are liable to
become spontaneously flammable or to give off flammable gases in
dangerous quantities.

5.1 H5.1 Oxidising

Substances or wastes which, while in themselves not necessarily
combustible, may, generally by yielding oxygen cause, or contribute to,
the combustion of other materials.

5.2 H5.2 Organic peroxides

Organic substances or wastes which contain the bivalent-o-o- structure
are thermally unstable substances which may undergo exothermic self-
accelerating decomposition.

6.1 H6.1 Poisonous (acute)

Substances or wastes liable either to cause death or serious injury or to
harm health if swallowed or inhaled or by skin contact.

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UN Code Characteristics
Class*
6.2 H6.2 Infectious substances
Substances or wastes containing viable microorganisms or their toxins
which are known or suspected to cause disease in animals or humans.

8 H8 Corrosives
Substances or wastes which, by chemical action, will cause severe
damage when in contact with living tissue, or, in the case of leakage, will
materially damage, or even destroy, other goods or the means of
transport; they may also cause other hazards.

9 H10 Liberation of toxic gases in contact with air or water

Substances or wastes which, by interaction with air or water, are liable
to give off toxic gases in dangerous quantities.

9 H11 Toxic (delayed or chronic)

Substances or wastes which, if they are inhaled or ingested or if they
penetrate the skin, may involve delayed or chronic effects, including
carcinogenicity.

9 H12 Ecotoxic
Substances or wastes which if released present or may present
immediate or delayed adverse impacts to the surrounding environment
by means of bioaccumulation and/or toxic effects upon biotic systems.

9 H13 Capable, by any means, after disposal, of yielding another material, for
example, leachate, which possesses any of the characteristics listed
above.

* Corresponds to the hazard classification system included in the United Nations Recommendations on the
Transport of Dangerous Goods (ST/SG/AC.10/1Rev.5, United Nations, New York, 1988).

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Annex B
(normative)

Roles and responsibilities of the hazardous

waste generator, carrier and licensed collector

B.1 Hazardous waste generator

The roles and responsibilities of a hazardous waste generator shall include the following:

(a) Preparing and following a source reduction strategy, where possible.

(b) Identifying the hazardous wastes generated in their premises and determining the safe
treatment procedure for each waste. This includes identifying their hazardous characteristics.
This information shall be given to the hazardous waste collector to enable them to deal with
the hazardous wastes properly.

(c) Ensuring that the wastes are collected, labelled and stored in a hazardous waste storage
facility designed and maintained in accordance with C.2, with segregation and isolation to
mitigate any chemical incompatibility in line with Table C.1.

(d) Preparing for emergencies at their site (i.e. emergency response plan according to SCDF
guidelines).

(e) Ensuring an effective occupational health programme is implemented which include regular
dissemination of information of safe work procedures and emergency response procedures to
personnel involved in the handling of hazardous wastes and provision of appropriate
equipment and personal protective equipment. (Refer to MOM’s and Workplace Safety and
Health Council (WSHC)’s websites).

(f) Ensuring that hazardous wastes are treated and disposed of in an environmentally sound and
safe manner.

(g) Ensuring that the hazardous wastes storage facilities (whether temporary or permanent) are
properly maintained.

(h) Evaluating the hazardous waste collectors prior to engaging them and periodically auditing so
as to ensure that they have the capacities and capabilities to treat the wastes.

(i) Preparing, transmitting and keeping electronic or hard copies of consignment notes (for
record purposes) for the transfer and transportation of hazardous wastes for treatment,
recycling and/or disposal.

(j) Keeping updated waste inventory, storage and treatment registers of their hazardous waste
activities (generation, collection, disposal, etc).

B.2 Carrier (transporter)

The roles and responsibilities of a carrier (transporter) shall include the following:

(a) Ensuring that the driver is adequately trained to carry out all the instructions contained in the
Transport Document provided by the TIWC or the generator. This includes familiarisation of
safe work procedures and the emergency response procedures to deal with any spillage or
accident.
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(b) Ensuring that transportation is only done during the hours and along routes stipulated in the
Transport Approval. Special permits shall be obtained from the relevant authority for
transportation outside of the stipulated hours.

(c) Ensuring that the hazardous wastes are transported in vehicles which have side-boards and
tail boards of height at least equal to that of the chemical containers stacked in the vehicles.

(d) Ensuring that proper hazard warning labels and panels are displayed on the tank container,
tanker and/or vehicle used for storing and transporting hazardous wastes.

(e) Ensuring that the bulk tanks conveying hazardous wastes are constructed according to
relevant codes of practice and standards of Singapore, with test certificates endorsed by an
approved third party Inspection Body. Refer to NEA’s website for an updated list of third party
inspection bodies.

(f) Ensuring sufficient emergency response equipment and materials are provided with the
vehicle.

(g) Ensuring the safe loading/unloading of hazardous wastes.

(h) Ensuring all hazardous wastes are transported within a day.

(i) Ensuring all e-tracking and documentation are as specified in 6.8.

(j) Ensuring that the hazardous waste containers are in good condition without any leakage
before taking over from the consignor, and

(k) Complying with all the instructions contained in the Transport Approval issued by NEA/SCDF.

B.3 Licensed collector (treatment contractor)

The roles and responsibilities of a licensed collector (treatment contractor) shall include the following:

(a) Collecting hazardous wastes that are listed in the TIWC’s licence issued by NEA.

(b) Preparing and maintaining updated records/registers of their hazardous waste activities
(collection, treatment, recycling and/or disposal) at all times and submitting monthly reports to
the relevant authority as specified in the Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA) and its
regulations.

(c) Ensuring that hazardous wastes are properly collected, labelled and stored in a safe and
secure manner.

(d) Ensuring that proper hazard warning labels and panels are displayed on the tank container,
tanker and/or vehicle used for storing and transporting hazardous wastes.

(e) Ensuring preparedness to deal with emergencies arising from accidental spillages and/or
mishaps when handling hazardous wastes (i.e. emergency response plan).

(f) Ensuring an effective occupational health programme is implemented, which include regular
dissemination of information of safe work procedures and emergency response procedures to
personnel involved in the handling of hazardous wastes and provision of appropriate
equipment and personal protective equipment.(Refer to MOM’s and WSHC’s websites).

(g) Ensuring that hazards and any potential harm are identified and suitable control measures
Implemented.
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(h) Ensuring an effective safety, health and environmental management system is in place.

(i) Ensuring that the wastes are stored in a hazardous waste storage area designed and
maintained in accordance with C.2, with segregation and isolation to mitigate any chemical
incompatibility in line with Table C.1.

(j) Ensuring that suitable treatment systems are in place and maintained to treat the waste
collected in an environmentally sound, safe and timely manner. See Annex D.

(k) Keeping updated records/registers on the hazardous waste activities at all times and
submitting report(s) to the relevant authority as specified in the EPHA and its regulations.

(l) Submitting electronic consignment notes for the collection and transportation of hazardous
wastes for treatment, recycling and/or disposal through e-tracking and keeping either
electronic or hard copies of consignment notes for record purposes. Submission of electronic
consignment notes can be done through e-tracking.

(m) Preparing, transmitting and keeping electronic copies of consignment notes (for record
purposes) for the transfer and transportation of hazardous wastes for further treatment,
recycling and/or disposal.

(n) Ensuring no accumulation or stockpiling of hazardous wastes on his premises in quantities

beyond his capability to treat/dispose/recover, and

(o) Maintaining good housekeeping.

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Annex C
(normative)

Containers, storage and labelling

C.1 Packaging

C.1.1 General requirements

C.1.1.1 Hazardous wastes should be packed and held in containers of design and construction
appropriate for the type of waste as well as the storage, handling, transportation and treatment
requirements.

C.1.1.2 Any container used should be in good condition and free from corrosion, contamination,
damage or any other defect that may impair its integrity.

C.1.1.3 There shall not be any mixing of different types or sources of hazardous wastes in the same
container where such mixing is likely to have significant adverse consequences such as reactivity or
ignitability.

C.1.1.4 Containers shall be closed or sealed so as to prevent leakage of hazardous wastes during
handling, transportation or prior to treatment.

C.1.1.5 Material of construction of the container including closures and fittings should be compatible
with the waste that is being stored. Plastic and steel are the most common types of materials. If not,
suitable internal lining, protective coating or treatment should be applied. A general indication of the
chemical compatibility waste types is given in Table C.1.

C.1.2 Recommended types of containers

C.1.2.1 It is acceptable to use any container that complies with the requirements set out in C.1.1.

C.1.2.2 Drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBC) and carboys are the preferred types as they are
commonly available and suitable for a wide range of wastes. There are generally two configurations:
removable top for solids and sludge and non-removable top with opening for filling liquids.

C.1.2.3 For wastes in solid and bulky form, for example, asbestos containing materials and
polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) contaminated equipment, heavy duty and leak-proof metal containers
or plastic bags could be used.

C.1.2.4 Consideration should be given to the quantity and frequency of hazardous wastes generated
in determining the size of containers to be used. Space and access within the premises should also
be considered if large size containers are to be moved between the production and storage areas.

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Table C.1 – Chemical compatibility of common containers with

different hazardous waste types

Material of containers or inner liner

Hazardous waste type Steel
Plastic
Mild Stainless steel
HDPE PP PVC Teflon Carbon steel 304 316 440
Acid (non-oxidising) e.g. boric acid,
R R A R N * * *
hydrochloric acid
Acid (oxidising) e.g. nitric acid R N N R N R R *
Alkali R R A R N R * R
Chromium or non-chromium oxidising
R A* A* R N A A *
agent
Cyanide waste R R R * N N N N
Halogenated or non-halogenated
* N N * A* A A A
solvent
Lubricating oil R A* A* R R R R R
Metal salt solution R A* A* R A* A* A* A*
Metal sludge R R R R R * R *
Mixed organic compound A N N A R R R R
Oily waste R N N R A* R R R
Organic sludge R N N R R * R *
Paint waste (solvent base) R N N R R R R R
Phenol and its derivative R A* A* R N A* A* A*
Polymerisation precusor and
R N N * R * * *
production waste
Tannery waste (chrome tanning
R R R R N * R *
solution)
Waste catalyst R * * A* A* A* A* A*
 Because of varying nature refer to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of individual chemical. If in doubt, technical
advice should be sought.
A: Acceptable HDPE: High density polyethylene
N: Not recommended PP: Polypropylene
R: Recommended PVC: Polyvinylchloride

C.2 Storage

C.2.1 General requirements

C.2.1.1 The storage area should be used for hazardous waste storage only.

C.2.1.2 The storage area should have an impermeable floor or surface made of suitable materials for
the storage of containers of liquid hazardous wastes. An impermeable layer will prevent infiltration of
liquid into the floor in case of leakage or spillage. The impermeable layer/structure should also be able
to withstand normal loading and physical damage caused by container handling. The condition of the
impermeable layer/surface should be regularly inspected to ensure it is satisfactorily maintained.

C.2.1.3 The hazardous waste storage area should be provided with secondary containment sufficient
to prevent soil/ground contamination in the event of a spill.

C.2.1.4 There should be no direct connection to any public surface water, drains and sewers.

C.2.1.5 The storage area should be so designed with impermeable partitions/walls erected between
the compartments for storage of incompatible materials

C.2.1.6 Adequate ventilation should be provided.

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C.2.1.7 Adequate space should be allowed within the storage area for container handling by workers.
In cases where large containers (e.g. 210-litre drums) are stored, space should be catered for the
maneuvering of a trolley or other lifting devices.

C.2.1.8 The storage area should be kept clean and dry.

C.2.1.9 Where the storage area is located within a building, the area should not obstruct any means
of escape from the building. Where the storage area is not within a building, it should be provided with
a roof or similar covering designed to prevent rainwater infiltration and reduce heat from sunlight.
Where flooding of the area is likely, the floor area should be raised, for example, by adopting a raised
platform design.

C.2.1.10 The storage should be located in secured premises.

C.2.1.11 Containers of incompatible hazardous wastes shall not be stored together where significant
adverse consequences may result in the event of contact between the wastes. Wastes that are
incompatible generally include those that will react with each other:

(a) violently and dangerously;

(b) with evolution of substantial heat or causing combustion;

(c) to produce flammable, poisonous or harmful gases; and

(d) to produce toxic, corrosive or unstable products.

C.2.1.12 Examples of common hazardous waste types that are incompatible with each other is given
in Table C.2. More detailed guidance is provided in Table C.3.

C.2.1.13 The stacking of containers should be in accordance with SS 532.

C.2.1.14 All containers should be kept closed during storage. Containers should not be handled in a
way that might cause them to rupture, leak or otherwise fail.

C.2.1.15 The hazardous waste storage area should be regularly inspected.

C.2.1.16 Hazardous waste should not be mixed with waste that is to be disposed of as non-hazardous
waste.

Table C.2 – Examples of incompatible waste types

Incompatibles Hazards upon mixing

Generation of hydrogen cyanide, Inhalation
Cyanides Acids, non-oxidising
of a small amount of the gas may be fatal.
Generation of chlorine. Inhalation may be
Hypochlorites Acids, non-oxidising
fatal.
Generation of nitrogen dioxide, nitrous
Copper, chromium and Acids, oxidising e.g.
fumes, causing irritation of eyes and burns
many heavy metals nitric acid
to skins.
Generation of ammonia, causing irritation
Ammonia salts Strong alkalis
of eyes and respiratory tracts on inhalation.
May react explosively with generation of
Oxidising agents Strong alkalis
heat.
May react violently and explosively with
Oxidising agents Reducing agents
generation of heat.

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Table C.3 – Compatibility chart

Group name
1 Acids,
mineral, non- 1
oxidising
2 Acids,
mineral, 2 Reactivity code
oxidising H --- Heat generation
3 G F --- Fire
Acids, organic 3
H G --- Innocuous and non-flammable gas generation
4 Alcohols and H H GT --- Toxic gas generation
H 4
glycols P P GF --- Flammable gas generation
5 H H H E --- Explosion
Aldehydes 5
P F P P --- Violent polymerisation
6 H S --- Solubilisation of toxic substance
Amides H G 6
U --- May be hazardous but unknown
T
7 Amines, H
aliphatic and H G H H 7
aromatic T
8 Azo and diazo
compounds H H H H
H 8
and G GT G G
hydrazines
9 H H G
Carbamates 9
G GT H
10 Caustics G
H H H H 10
(alkalis) H
11 GTGT GT
Cyanides G 11
GFGF GF
12 H H H
Dithiocarbam GF H
GFGF GF U 12
tes GT G
F F GT
13 H H
Esters H H 13
F G
14 H
Ethers H 14
F
15 Fluoride,
GT GT GT 15
inorganic
16 Hydro-
H
carbons, 16
F
aromatic

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17 H
Halogenated H H H H
F H 17
organics GT GT G GF
GT
18 H H
H H H H H H
Isocyanates F P U 18
G G P P G G
GT G
19 H H
Ketones H H H 19
F G
20 Mercaptans
H
and other GT H
F H H H 20
organic GF G
GT
sulphides
21 Metals, alkaili
GF GF GF GF GF GF
and alkalines GF GF GF GF GF GF GF H GF GF GF
H H H H H GT 21
earth, H H H H H H H E H H H
F F F F F H
elemental
22 Metals, other
elemental and
GF GF H H
alloys as GF H GF
H H GF F U GF 22
powders, H E H
F F GT F
vapours or
sponges
23 Metals, other
elemental and GF GF H
H
alloys as H H F 23
F
sheets, rods, F F G
mouldings, etc
24 Metals and
metal
S S S S S S 24
compounds,
toxic
25 GF H
H GF GF H GF GF GF GF GF GF
Nitrides H F U U U E 25
GF H H G H H H H H H
F E
26 H H
H GF
Nitriles GT F H U S 26
P H
GF GT
27 Nitro H H H
H
compounds, F H GF GF 27
E
organic GT E E
28 Hydrocarbons
H H
, aliphatic, H H 28
F E
unsaturated

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29 Hydrocarbons
H
, aliphatic, 29
F
saturated
30 Peroxides and
H H H H H H H
hydro- H H H H H H H F H H
F F E F H E F GF P 30
peroxides, G E F G GT E E G G P
E GT GT GT GT E GT
organic
31 Phenols and H H H GF GF
H H 31
cresols F G P H H
32 Organophosp
hates, H H H
U H U 32
phosphothioat GT GT E
es
33 H
Sulphides, GT H
F GT H E H 33
inorganic GF GT
GT
34 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Epoxides U U U 34
P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
35 Combustible
and H H H H
H
flammable F G GF F 35
G
materials, GT F F GT
misc
36 H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Explosives H E E 36
E E E E E E E E E E E E E
37 Polyme-
P P P P P P P P P P P P P H
risable U E 37
H H H H H H H H H H H H H E
compounds
38 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Oxidising H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
F F F E F F F F F H F F F F F F F 38
agents, strong GT GT F F E F GT F E F F G F E
GT GT GT GT GT GT GT E E F E GT GT GT G G GT
39 H H GF GT H H
Reducing H H GF H H H H H H H GF GF GF H H H GF GF H
F GF H GP H P F 39
agents, strong GF GF H GF G GT F F F E H H H GF E E H H E
GT F F H GF E
40 Water and
mixtures H GF GF GF GT GF
H H G S 40
containing G H H H GF GT
water
41 Water reactive
Extremely reactive 41
substances

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C.2.2 Alternative arrangement for small waste generators

C.2.2.1 The storage area requirements can be complied with by the provision of a cupboard or
cabinet of a robust design for small hazardous waste generators, typically those requiring less than
300 litres of storage capacity in total, prior to collection or disposal of the wastes. The cupboard or
cabinet should be provided with:

(a) storage shelves fitted with a liquid-tight trough to retain leakage;

(b) storage shelves strong enough for the filled containers being stored; and

(c) adequate ventilation to eliminate or minimise the generation of vapours from leaks or spills.

C.2.2.2 The material used for the construction of the cupboard or cabinet and the liquid-tight trough
should withstand the chemical action of the hazardous wastes stored in the containers. Steel with
protective coating or treatment will generally be an acceptable material. Incompatible hazardous
wastes should either be stored separately or in compartments separated from each other by partitions
constructed from impermeable material(s).

C.2.3 Containers with residues

C.2.3.1 Containers which have not been cleaned and which contain residues of hazardous wastes
should be handled in the same manner as filled containers.

C.2.4 Warning signs at the hazardous waste storage area

C.2.4.1 Warning signs should be provided at every hazardous waste storage area. Warning signs
should:

(a) be weather resistant and rigid;

(b) be kept clean and free from obstruction; and

(c) provide a warning that the area contains hazardous waste materials.

C.3 Labelling

C.3.1 General requirements

C.3.1.1 Every container of hazardous wastes should bear an appropriate label. SS 586 should be
used as a reference, as appropriate. The label should also clearly indicate that the content is a
waste.

C.3.1.2 The generator should ensure that the information contained on the label is accurate and
adequate to enable proper and safe handling, storage and transport of the hazardous wastes.

C.3.1.3 The label should be securely attached to a suitable part of the container that allows the
information on the label to be easily read and not obstructed or obscured by any part/fitting of the
container. Labels should be attached to the sides of containers and not on the heads or tops. It is
recommended to attach two labels, one on opposite sides of the container.

C.3.1.4 For reused or reconditioned containers, the generator should ensure that all old labels on the
containers have been completely removed or obliterated.

C.3.1.5 Labels shall be weather resistant and indelibly marked.

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C.3.2 Information and design on the label

C.3.2.1 SS 586 should be used as a reference for the design of the waste label, along with other
appropriate waste or generator specific information.

C.3.2.2 Many hazardous wastes possess characteristics that would justify their being in two or more
of the given classes, as set out in Table C.3. As far as possible, particular wastes shall be assigned to
the class that may reasonably be regarded as representing their major hazard under expected
conditions of transport, handling, storage and disposal. Hence hazardous wastes shall be classified
unilaterally according to their major hazard, but they may also bear a subsidiary risk label if warranted
by the hazards.

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Annex D
(normative)

Treatment processes for hazardous wastes

D.1 Typical treatment processes

Table D.1 lists the various treatment processes or technologies available for the general types of
hazardous waste. The type of treatment system ultimately used depends on the characteristics of the
waste. The table below is not exhaustive in terms of treatment systems nor should the system
referred for different wastes be seen as definitive. The waste generator should consult appropriate
subject matter experts or authorities to determine the right treatment method for the specific waste.

Table D.1 – Matrix table for treatment processes

Treatment process Types of wastes

1. Physical

Coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, Volatile organics, non-volatile organics, polynuclear

filtration (granular, membrane), granular aromatics, phenolic, surfactant, chlorinated
activated carbon (GAC) stripping, flotation, aromatics, solvents, chlorinated hydrocarbons,
ion exchange, encapsulation, thermal drying. metals.

2. Chemical

Neutralisation, oxidation, reduction, Non-volatile organics, cyanide, sulfides, phenol,

stabilisation and solidification, precipitation. benzene, metals.

3. Biological

Aerobic – suspended, fixed film, bioreactors, Volatile organics, non-volatile organics, phenol,
biofiltration, slurry, solid phase. pthalate esters, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides,
solvents, hydrogenated ethers.

Anaerobic – fixed and fluidised bed reactors, Chlorinated solvents, phenolic compounds,
upflow sludge blanket. sulfonated benzene, nitrogen-substituted benzene.

4. Thermal

Liquid and vapour incinerators, catalytic High organic wastes, waste oils, halogenated
vapour incinerators, fluidized bed, rotary kiln, solvents, non-halogenated solvents, organic
multiple hearth. liquids, pesticides, herbicides, PCBs.

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D.2 Physical processes

Physical treatment of wastes depends upon the physical properties of the material treated. Physical
treatment is basically a separation process that, when applied, results in the separation and/or
concentration of the contaminant to reduce the volume of material requiring further treatment or
disposal. Physical treatment techniques include:

(a) Sedimentation is a process by which hazardous and non-hazardous grits, fines and other
suspended solids are removed from the waste stream through gravity settling.

(b) Coagulation and flocculation processes are used to promote the settleability and filterability of
suspended solids in treated and non-treated hazardous wastes. Coagulation is the addition
and rapid mixing of a coagulant to neutralise charges and destabilise colloidal particles so
they can agglomerate and settle. Flocculation refers to the agglomeration and entrapment of
the neutralised particles into a large solid network.

(c) Membrane filtration involves the use of a driving force (electricity or pressure) to filter
particles, ions and organic molecules through a membrane, producing a clean stream on one
side and a concentrated stream on the other. The general classes of membrane filtration
include, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis and electrodialysis.

(d) Carbon adsorption is the collection and concentration of contaminants onto the pore surfaces
of the carbon. Carbon adsorption is used for the removal of organics from wastewaters and
gaseous streams.

(e) Extraction technology operates on the principle that the hazardous material has a greater
solubility in the extraction fluid than in the waste stream. Two types of extraction are solvent
extraction and supercritical fluid extraction. In solvent extraction, the waste stream is mixed
with a solvent, which allows the mass transfer of the hazardous constituent from the waste
stream to the solvent. The solvent selected for the extraction shall be immiscible in the waste
stream. The final solvent stream can be subsequently separated by distillation or by
chemically extracting the solvent for re-use. Supercritical fluid extraction uses pressurised or
supercritical gas as the solvent because its solvent properties are greatly enhanced when it
reaches critical point. The hazardous waste is soluble in the supercritical fluid and therefore is
extracted from the aqueous streams.

(f) Decantation is a process that can be used to separate two immiscible liquids of different
densities. It can also be used for solid/liquid separation, for example, in sludge dewatering.

(g) Distillation is a process of vapourisation, followed by condensation, in which volatile

compounds can be separated from a waste stream by taking advantage of differences in
vapour pressures or boiling points among volatile fractions and water. There are two general
types of distillation; batch or continuous fractional distillation.

(h) Evaporation is a process to separate volatile and non-volatile components in a waste stream
and is often used to remove residual moisture or solvents from solids or semisolids.

(i) Dissolved air flotation is a separation process used for removal of suspended solids, oil and
grease and fibrous matter from wastewater and for the thickening of sludge. With this
process, air bubbles carry or float the solids and oils to the surface where they can be
removed.

(j) Ion exchange is an adsorption process where undesired ionic species are adsorbed from the
solution by exchanging places with a similarly charged ion on the exchange media, which is a
natural or synthetic adsorptive material called zeolite.

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(k) Stripping is a process in which low concentrations of volatile organics and inorganics are
removed from wastewater to gas phase. Stripping is accomplished by passing air, steam or
another stripping gas such as heated nitrogen through a liquid stream.

D.3 Chemical processes

Chemical treatment involves the use of chemical reactions to transform hazardous waste streams into
less hazardous substances. This type of treatment requires adequate mixing to bring sufficient
chemical into intimate contact with the waste stream constituents for a sufficient time to enable
completion of the chemical reactions. Chemical treatment can be useful in promoting resource
recovery of hazardous substances in that it can be employed to produce useful by-products and
residual effluents that are environmentally acceptable. The different forms of chemical treatment used
in the management of hazardous wastes are:

(a) Neutralisation is pH adjustment of an acidic or caustic waste stream to a more neutral range.
Chemical treatment to adjust pH involves the application of acidic chemicals to lower the pH
of caustic streams and caustic chemicals to raise the pH of acidic waste streams. The
common neutralising agents are lime or calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide and
magnesium hydroxide for acidic streams and sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid and carbon
dioxide for caustic streams.

(b) The chemical processes of oxidation and reduction can be used for both partial and complete
degradation of many organic and inorganic compounds into either harmless or less toxic
substances. Oxidation is a chemical reaction with an increase in valence from a loss of
electrons. Oxidation shall be accompanied by reduction. Reduction is a reaction with a
decrease in valence from a gain of electrons. Chemical reactions that involve both oxidation
and reduction are known as redox reactions. Examples of compounds that are treated by
redox processes include alcohols, phenols and cyanide. Common chemical oxidants for
waste treatment include chlorine, ozone and hydrogen peroxide.

(c) Chemical precipitation is used in the treatment of aqueous wastes and slurries containing
heavy metals. Precipitation is based on altering the chemical equilibrium of the system by
exceeding the solubility product for the species. Metal precipitation is accomplished by pH
adjustment and the addition of a chemical reagent that forms a precipitant with the metal that
can be settled out and separated from the aqueous stream. As metals are conservative,
precipitation serves as a concentration process rather than a method of destruction. The
product formed during the process shall therefore be disposed of as a hazardous waste.
Hydroxide precipitation with chemical reagents such as calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide
and magnesium hydroxide can be used to precipitate arsenic, cadmium, trivalent chromium,
copper, iron, lead, manganese, nickel and zinc. Sulphide precipitation with reagents such as
sodium sulphide and ferrous sulphide can be used with cadmium, cobalt, copper, iron,
mercury, manganese, nickel, silver, tin and zinc. Carbonate precipitation with reagents such
as sodium carbonate and calcium carbonate can be used with cadmium, lead, nickel and zinc.

(d) Stabilisation and solidification are technologies that are often used together to improve or
strengthen the physical nature of a waste and to bind, immobilise, or otherwise prevent the
migration of toxic constituents contained in the waste. Stabilisation generally refers to
processes that reduce the toxicity, leaching or mobility of the contaminants with or without
change or improvement in the physical characteristics of the waste. Solidification generally
refers to processes that change the physical nature of the waste to make it more
manageable, increase its structural strength and load-bearing capacity, or reduce its
permeability. The common stabilisation and solidification processes are those using cement,
lime, pozzolanic materials, thermoplastics and thermosetting reactive polymers.

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D.4 Biological processes

Biological processes are generally used for the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, wastewater
and soil remediation. They are less commonly used for primary treatment of high concentration of
hazardous waste. Biological systems are more commonly used at the site which generates the waste,
in a combined treatment system for that site. Biological treatment of hazardous wastes is based on
the ability of a mixed population of microorganisms to utilise the contamination as nutrients. The two
major classes of biological treatment are aerobic (with oxygen) and anaerobic (without oxygen).
Methods of biological treatment, primarily of wastewater, include:

(a) Activated sludge is widely used to treat both municipal and industrial wastewater. The
activated sludge process comprises three basic elements – an aeration basin, clarification
and sludge recycle. The aeration basin contains a suspension of activated microorganisms,
primarily bacteria and protozoa that biodegrade the wastewater constituents under aerobic
conditions. Aerators supply oxygen for the microorganisms and mixing energy to keep them
in suspension and in contact with the wastes. The microorganisms are separated from the
treated wastewater by clarification and a portion of this biological sludge is recycled back to
the aeration basin to maintain the microbial population and begin a new treatment cycle.

(b) Membrane bioreactor (MBR) is an integration of a membrane process with the activated
sludge process, and is widely used to treat both municipal and industrial wastewater. In this
process, the membrane separation unit replaces the clarifier in the conventional activated
sludge process. The physical barrier provided by the membrane achieves separation of the
biological sludge which is recycled back to the aeration basin to maintain the microbial
population. In the MBR, the membrane may be immersed (or submerged) within the aeration
basin, or maybe external to the aeration basin.

(c) Aeration is a biological wastewater treatment system where surface aerators in an aerated
lagoon provide oxygen and mix the wastewater and microorganisms together. A settling pond
follows the aerated lagoon to separate the microorganisms from the treated wastewater.

(d) Trickling filter has a support media which can be a packed bed of crushed rock, an inert
natural material or a synthetic plastic. The microorganisms grow as a film on the support
media. A central shaft rotates a set of distributor arms that trickle the wastewater over the
media. The wastewater is continuously aerated because air can pass freely through the void
spaces in the bed. Excess biological growth sloughs off and is separated from the treated
wastewater in a clarifier.

(e) Sludge digestion is used as a supporting process in the biological treatment of wastes.
Organic sludge from biological wastewater treatment systems is usually treated by aerobic or
anaerobic digestion to reduce the organic content and thereby stabilise the material before
land application or landfilling. Waste activated sludge and primary sludge are combined for
digestion. The digested solids are separated from the aqueous supernatant in a sludge
thickener tank for mixed digestor or gravity settling in the unmixed digestor itself.

(f) Anaerobic treatment is a biological process employing anaerobic bacteria to decompose

complex organic matter in the absence of free oxygen. In municipal sludge treatment, the use
of anaerobic treatment results in virtually complete destruction of putrescible organics,
significant reduction in pathogens, conversion of hydrophilic solids to water, minerals, a
valuable gas and a humus-like residue, and favourable alteration of the dewaterability of the
sludge.

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D.5 Thermal processes

Thermal treatment is the use of high temperature to thermally destroy or break down hazardous
wastes. In some cases, thermal treatment is used to aid in desorption of contaminants in sludge and
solids. There are a variety of thermal processes that destroy contaminants. The common thermal
treatment technologies include:

(a) Liquid injection incineration is used for the destruction of liquid hazardous wastes such as
solvents. Atomisers break the liquid into fine droplets and therefore the residence time during
incineration can be extremely short. Gases including organic streams from process vents and
those from other thermal processes can also be incinerated in the liquid injection unit.

(b) Rotary kiln systems are commonly used for incinerating hazardous wastes. It is a long,
cylindrical incinerator that is sloped a few degrees from the horizontal. Waste is introduced at
the upper end. The gentle slope and slow rotation of the kiln continually mix and re-expose
the waste to the hot refractory walls, moving the waste toward the exit point.

(c) Multiple hearth incinerators can be used to destroy hazardous wastes but the most common
application is the destruction of wet sludge where thermal efficiency is important. The
multiple hearths are stacked vertically and sludge is introduced into the top hearth. A series
of rabble arms extending from a centre-rotating shaft mix and move the wastes along the
circular hearth until the wastes fall through holes unto the hearth below. Liquid wastes may
be incinerated along with sludge when injected through burner nozzles.

(d) Fluidised bed incinerators are commonly used to incinerate gaseous, liquid and solid wastes
and are especially useful for processing hazardous sludge and low-calorific value wastes. In
a fluidised bed, the wastes and an inert bed material are fluidised by blowing heated air
through a distributor plate at the bottom of the bed. Fluidisation results in good mixing and
uniform distribution of materials within the bed which results in lower operating temperatures
and lower excess air requirements for the incineration of the wastes.

(e) Catalytic oxidation is used primarily to destroy organic materials contained in dilute gas
streams. Catalytic oxidation units are usually economical for dilute gas streams because the
catalyst allows operation at lower temperatures so less fuel is required to heat the inert gas to
combustion temperatures. These units use a refractory-lined chamber which is filled with a
catalyst and where gaseous wastes are fired through a burner at the inlet end of the chamber.

(f) Gasification is a partial oxidation process in which carbonaceous material are converted into a
gas mixture consisting of hydrogen and carbon monoxide under oxygen-depleted, high
pressure, high-temperature conditions. The resulting gas mixture is called Synthesis gas (or
Syngas), which is either condensed and recovered as a chemical or more commonly burned
off in a thermal oxidation unit to produce energy.

(g) Pyrolysis is the chemical and physical decomposition of organic material that takes place at
high temperatures in the absence of oxygen (or any halogen). It generates carbon char,
syngas and a mixture of light and heavy hydrocarbons. This technology can be used for
specialised homogeneous waste streams.

(h) In plasma gasification, plasma in the form of a plasma "torch" or "arc" is used to provide the
heat energy needed to initiate a gasification reaction. Plasma torches and arcs can reach
extremely high temperatures. Plasma gasification is used to convert various materials,
including hazardous waste, into syngas which can be used to produce electricity and
sometimes other products, depending on the waste input.

(i) Thermal desorption is a treatment process to remove volatile contaminants in sludge and
solids, and is primarily applied to treat contaminated soil. Wastes are heated to temperatures
o
of 200 to 600 C to increase the volatilisation of organic contaminants. Volatilised organics in

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the gas stream are removed by a variety of methods such as incineration, carbon adsorption
and chemical reduction.

D.6 Land-based disposal systems

All hazardous waste treatment residues and stabilised materials shall be sent to NEA authorised
disposal facility(s).

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ABOUT SPRING SINGAPORE

SPRING Singapore is an agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry responsible for helping
Singapore enterprises grow and building trust in Singapore products and services. As the national
standards and accreditation body, SPRING develops and promotes an internationally-recognised
standards and quality assurance infrastructure. SPRING also oversees the safety of general
consumer goods in Singapore. As the enterprise development agency, SPRING works with partners
to help enterprises in financing, capability and management development, technology and innovation,
and access to markets.

SPRING Singapore
1 Fusionopolis Walk
#01-02 South Tower, Solaris
Singapore 138628
Tel: 6278 6666
Fax: 6278 6667
E-mail: enterpriseone@spring.gov.sg
Website: http://www.spring.gov.sg

ABOUT THE NATIONAL STANDARDISATION PROGRAMME

Under the national standardisation programme, SPRING Singapore helps companies and industry to
meet international standards and conformity requirements by creating awareness of the importance of
standardisation to enhance competitiveness and improve productivity, co-ordinating the development
and use of Singapore Standards and setting up an information infrastructure to educate companies
and industry on the latest developments.

SPRING Singapore is vested with the authority to appoint a Standards Council to advise on the
preparation, publication and promulgation of Singapore Standards and Technical References and
their implementation.

Singapore Standards are in the form of specifications for materials and products, codes of practice,
methods of test, nomenclature, services, etc. The respective committee or working group will draw
up the standards before seeking final approval from the Standards Council or the relevant Standards
Committee. To ensure adequate representation of all viewpoints in the preparation of Singapore
Standards, all committees appointed consist of representatives from various interest groups which
include government agencies, professional bodies, tertiary institutions and consumer, trade and
manufacturing organisations.

Technical References are transition documents developed to help meet urgent industry demand for
specifications or requirements on a particular product, process or service in an area where there is an
absence of reference standards. Unlike Singapore Standards, they are issued for comments over a
period of two years before assessment on their suitability for approval as Singapore Standards. All
comments are considered when a technical reference is reviewed at the end of two years to
determine the feasibility of its transition to a Singapore Standard. Technical References can
therefore become Singapore Standards after two years, continue as Technical References for further
comments or be withdrawn.

In the international arena, SPRING Singapore represents Singapore in the International Organization
of Standardization (ISO), the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Sub-committee for
Standards and Conformance (SCSC) and in the ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and
Quality (ACCSQ). The Singapore National Committee of the International Electrotechnical
Commission which is supported by SPRING Singapore, represents Singapore in the IEC.

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The Singapore Standardisation
Programme is managed by
SPRING Singapore
1 Fusionopolis Walk,
#01-02 South Tower, Solaris
Singapore 138628
Tel : +65 6278 6666
Fax : +65 6278 6667
www.spring.gov.sg