UNDERSTANDING SCHEDULED WASTE

In Malaysia, scheduled waste refers to any waste that contains hazardous or potentially harmful substances as defined under the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Wastes) Regulations 2005. These wastes are commonly produced by industries such as manufacturing, automotive, electronics, and chemical processing. 

Through proper testing and classification, scheduled waste can be managed safely to reduce environmental risks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

IMPORTANCE OF SCHEDULED WASTE ANALYSIS

Conducting scheduled waste analysis is an essential part of responsible waste management. It provides accurate information about the waste composition and determines how it should be handled, treated, or disposed of safely.

Scheduled waste analysis is crucial for:

• Meeting DOE Requirements: Verify the characteristics of waste and assign the correct SW code under Malaysia’s Environmental Quality Act.
• Ensuring Proper Disposal: Identify the safest and most effective treatment and disposal methods based on the waste type and hazard level.
• Protecting Health and the Environment: Prevent contamination, harmful reactions, and accidental exposure during handling and transportation.
• Supporting Sustainability Efforts: Detect recyclable or recoverable components to reduce total waste volume.
• Maintaining Compliance Records: Provide documented evidence for DOE inspections and environmental audits.

WHAT IS ANALYZED IN SCHEDULED WASTE

• Physical Properties: Evaluation of color, texture, moisture content, and flash point to determine handling and storage requirements.
• Chemical Characteristics: Analysis of pH, total solids, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and oil and grease content.
• Heavy Metals: Detection of metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and arsenic to assess toxicity levels.
• Organic Compounds: Identification of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, including hydrocarbons, phenols, and solvents.
• Leachability Tests: Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) to evaluate the potential for contaminants to leach into soil or groundwater.
• Reactivity and Corrosivity: Determination of reactive, oxidizing, or highly acidic and alkaline properties that could pose handling risks.

HOW SCHEDULED WASTE ANALYSIS IS CONDUCTED AT BIOCHEM

BIOCHEM follows a structured and transparent approach to ensure accurate results and full compliance with DOE requirements.

Our testing process includes:

• Sampling: Waste samples are collected directly from storage areas or production sites using proper labeling and containment practices.
• Sample Preparation: The waste is pre-treated and stabilized to maintain integrity before testing.
• Laboratory Testing: Comprehensive analysis is carried out using advanced instruments such as ICP-OES, GC-MS, and AAS to determine chemical composition and hazard characteristics.
• Data Interpretation: Results are reviewed and compared against DOE standards to assign the correct Scheduled Waste (SW) code.
• Reporting: A complete report is issued with analytical findings, classification details, and recommendations for appropriate treatment or disposal methods.