Managing Hazardous Waste Transfers: Key Certifications & Compliance Rules

Managing Hazardous Waste Transfers: Key Certifications & Compliance Rules

In India, the process of moving hazardous waste from creation to treatment, storage, or disposal is strictly regulated. In addition to appropriate handling, legitimate certificates and permits are necessary to guarantee safety and compliance at every level. According to the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, you must adhere to certain regulatory standards whether you are a manufacturer, waste generator, or transporter.

Hazardous Waste License Overview

A hazardous waste license is an official authorization issued by the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), allowing a unit to generate, store, transport, treat, or dispose of hazardous waste. This license ensures that your facility follows environmental safeguards while handling such waste.

Criteria for Hazardous Waste Certification

Depending on your position in the waste management chain, you must hold one of the following hazardous waste certificates to handle hazardous waste legally:

• Waste Generators: Must obtain authorization from SPCB

• Transporters: Need a valid transportation permit

• Disposal/Treatment Facilities: Must hold a valid license to operate (TSDF)

• Handlers/Importers/Exporters: Require special certification for cross-border movement

Procedure for Applying Hazardous Waste

Use these procedures to submit a license application:

1. Register on the State Pollution Control Board Portal

2. Fill the hazardous waste application form with unit and activity details

3. Upload required documents (Consent to Operate, layout plan, waste category details, MoU with disposal facility, etc.)

4. Pay the prescribed application fee

5. Application review and site inspection by SPCB

6. Issuance of the hazardous waste license/authorization upon approval

Hazardous License Apply Online – Portal Guide

Most state SPCBs have online portals for hazardous waste registration and license management. Here's how to apply online:

• Visit the official SPCB website (e.g., https://ocmms.nic.in for many states)

• Choose “Apply for Authorization under Hazardous Waste Rules”

• Create login credentials and start your application

• Submit, track status, and download license digitally

Hazardous Waste Management Process: An Overview

1. Identification of Hazardous Waste as per Schedule I, II, or III

2. Proper Storage & Labeling of waste at the generation site

3. Manifest System for authorized transportation

4. Disposal at TSDF (Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility)

5. Annual Reporting and renewal of authorization from SPCB

Important Documents Needed for Hazardous Waste

• Consent to Operate (CTO) under Air & Water Acts

• Site plan/layout of waste storage area

• Waste category and quantity details

• MoU with authorized TSDF

• Board resolution (if applicable for the company)

• Copy of PAN, GST, and previous license (if renewing)

Final Thought

Managing the transportation of hazardous waste involves more than just transferring garbage from one location to another; it also involves making sure that businesses operate responsibly, comply with the law, and protect the environment. Industries of all sizes must adhere to the organized hazardous waste management procedure, submit the appropriate hazardous waste application, and have the appropriate hazardous waste license.