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Here's why turnaround waste management plans are so important

 

October 12, 2024

 

PRESENTED BY

 

Creating a turnaround waste management plan is crucial when working as a contractor at an industrial facility. Here's what this plan is all about and why it's so important.

 

What's a turnaround waste management plan?

 

A turnaround waste management (WM) plan is essentially your roadmap for handling all the waste generated during a facility's turnaround or shutdown period. It's a comprehensive document that outlines how you'll manage, store, transport, and dispose of various types of waste that crop up during maintenance and repair activities.

 

Why is it so important? 

 

Think of your WM plan as your waste playbook. Here's why it's a game-changer:

 

Keeping things organized

 

Without a solid plan, waste management can quickly become a chaotic mess. A well-crafted WM plan helps keep everything running smoothly, ensuring that waste is properly segregated, stored, and disposed of[1].

 

Staying compliant

 

Industrial facilities are subject to a ton of regulations. Your WM plan helps ensure you're following all the rules and avoiding hefty fines or penalties[1].

 

Saving time and money

 

By planning ahead, you can optimize waste handling processes, potentially reducing disposal costs and minimizing downtime[2].

 

Protecting the environment

 

Proper waste management is crucial for minimizing environmental impact. Your plan helps ensure that hazardous materials are handled safely and responsibly[1].

 

Getting your plan vetted 

 

Here's the deal: you can't just create a WM plan in a vacuum. It's super important to get it vetted through the client's Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) department and other key contacts. Why? Because they know their facility inside and out and can provide valuable insights.

 

Collaboration is key

 

Working closely with the client's HSE team ensures that your plan aligns with their existing procedures and policies. It's all about teamwork, folks!

 

Addressing facility-specific concerns

 

Each industrial facility is unique, with its own set of challenges and requirements. Getting your plan vetted helps address these specific concerns head-on[1].

 

Building trust

 

When you involve the client in the planning process, it shows that you're committed to doing things right. This can go a long way in building a strong working relationship.

 

A quick reminder about RCRA

 

Don't forget about the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) elementary neutralization unit for chemical cleanings! This nifty provision allows you to neutralize certain hazardous wastes on-site without a permit[3].

 

Neutralizing wastes

 

Being able to neutralize wastes can be a real game-changer. It can help reduce the volume of hazardous waste you need to manage and potentially lower disposal costs[3].

 

Know the rules

 

Just remember, there are specific requirements for using an elementary neutralization unit. Make sure you're familiar with the regulations and include this information in your WM plan if applicable.

 

Bonus tip

 

Work with your client contacts! They likely have site-specific requirements. It's better to start off working with them instead of having to re-do everything. 

 

Creating a solid turnaround waste management plan might seem like a lot of work upfront, but trust me, it's worth it. It'll help keep your project running smoothly, keep you on the right side of regulations, and show your client that you're a pro who takes waste management seriously. So roll up your sleeves, collaborate with the client's HSE team, and create a plan that'll make waste management a breeze during your next turnaround project!

 

 

Citations:
[1] https://setxind.com/a-closer-look-at-industrial-project-management-services/
[2] https://cdmg.com/building-faqs/why-is-industrial-project-management-important
[3] https://www.epa.gov/homeland-security-waste/waste-management-benefits-planning-and-mitigation-activities-homeland
[4] https://cdmg.com/building-faqs/whats-industrial-project-management
[5] https://sustainability.wm.com/esg-hub/sustainability-growth/wm-sustainability-environmental-solutions/
[6] https://www.wbdg.org/resources/construction-waste-management
[7] https://www.benchmarkelectricalsolutions.com/blog/benefits-of-industrial-construction-planning-management
[8] https://www.ccigroupusa.com/what-is-an-industrial-contractor/