Prepare for an inspection
We inspect facilities to ensure they handle, store, and dispose of dangerous waste according to the Dangerous Waste Regulations.
Inspections are:
- Unannounced.
- Conducted during standard business hours.
Learn how to prepare for an inspection and what to expect when one occurs.
What happens during an inspection?
When dangerous waste compliance inspectors arrive at your facility, they will ask for the contact person listed on your:
If this person is unavailable, another staff member who is knowledgeable about dangerous waste at the facility will need to act as the backup.
The contact person should expect to:
- Explain the facility's processes that generate waste.
- Explain how the facility has designated the wastes generated.
- Explain how the facility's waste is stored and managed.
- Provide records required for your generator category, when requested.
What areas will be inspected?
Inspectors will tour the facility to check for compliance against the Dangerous Waste Regulations. The areas that inspectors typically look at are:
- Points of waste generation.
- Production areas.
- Central accumulation areas.
- Satellite accumulation areas.
- "Bone yards" or other storage areas.
Inspectors may take photos
During the tour, inspectors may take photos to document violations or examples of proper dangerous waste management. These photos help inspectors write their inspection reports.
Talk to your inspector if you have questions or concerns about this.
What happens after the inspection?
Inspectors will write an inspection report. The inspection report will include:
- A narrative of the inspection.
- A list of violations if any were found.
- Actions required to correct any violations if any were found.
- Concerns and suggestions.
Inspectors may contact you with follow-up questions as they write their reports to clarify observations or any other information from the inspection.
What if your facility has violations?
Once your facility receives the inspection report, you will have 30 days to:
- Complete the actions required to correct any violations that were found.
- Submit the following to Ecology:
- Supporting documentation that shows the violations were corrected.
- A signed compliance certificate, included in the report.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Contact information
Need help?
Contact a dangerous waste inspector in your region