Common types of dangerous waste

Many businesses in Washington generate some type of dangerous waste — waste that is harmful to human health and the environment. Businesses must follow the Dangerous Waste Regulations to ensure they properly handle and dispose of dangerous waste.

Learn more about how to manage common types of dangerous waste found in most businesses and those unique to certain types of businesses, such as dental offices, auto body shops, and others.

Learn more about dangerous waste

Dangerous waste basics

Shop Guide

Dispose, recycle, or treat

Dangerous waste reporting and fees

What is dangerous waste?

Washington state uses the term "dangerous waste" rather than the federal law's term of "hazardous waste." This is because Washington state's Dangerous Waste Regulations are more protective than federal laws. The definition of "dangerous waste" is more expansive than "hazardous waste."

When is a product dangerous waste?

Products used by businesses may qualify as dangerous waste once they are discarded or no longer have a use (i.e., become a waste). The only way to know for sure if something is dangerous waste is to designate it.

Learn how to designate your waste.
Look for products labeled “DANGER,” “FLAMMABLE,” “WARNING,” “POISON,” or something similar. When these products become waste, they may be considered dangerous waste.

Common wastes across most businesses

These items can be found across multiple types of businesses:

Aerosol cans
Batteries
Cleaners and disinfectants
Electronic waste (computers, TVs, laptops, cellphones, etc.)
Lights, lightbulbs, and lamps

Common wastes by business type

In addition to common wastes listed above, your business may work with certain products that are unique to your industry. Learn how to manage them correctly.

Auto body shops and auto recyclers
Construction and demolition
Dry cleaners
Health and medical care facilities, such as:
- Dentists and dental offices.
- Pharmacies, hospitals, and any others that deal with pharmaceutical waste
Manufacturing businesses, such as:
- Electroplating and metal finishing
- Fiberglass and fiber-reinforced plastic
Retailers and other stores that deal with nicotine and vape waste

Contact information

Need help?
Contact a dangerous waste inspector in your region.

Were you able to find what you were looking for today?*:	Yes No Not sure
What were you trying to find?*:
Please describe your experience. What was challenging? What was helpful? *:	Please include details that will help us address any issues you're reporting. NOTE: There is a 1,500 character limit (including spaces) on this form field.
Was the search tool helpful to you? *:	Yes No I didn't use Search.
How can we improve our website?:	Optional. If you have suggestions, we'd like to hear them! NOTE: There is a 1,500 character limit (including spaces) on this form field.
Your name:	Please include contact information if you'd like a reply.
Email:	If you’d like a reply, please provide an email address.
Phone number:	( ) - Second three digits Last four digits If you’d like us to call you, please provide a phone number.
Which best describes your role in visiting our site today?*:	Business / Consultant / Contractor Government - Local Government - State Government - Federal Government - Tribal Scientist / Researcher Non-profit Washington resident / Public Educator Student Job seeker Ecology employee
PleaseLeaveBlank:	Are you a robot? If not, please do not enter anything in this field.
	ignore
	ignore