Please note this podcast was recorded in November 2025.

Hear or view the full series here:

http://eswm.org.uk/whatawaste/

What this episode is about

Hazardous waste isn’t always obvious.

In fact, many of the biggest risks are hiding in plain sight — in cleaning products, oily rags, workshop materials and everyday business processes.

In this episode of What a Waste, Darren Draper is joined by Gareth Ward, CEO of Environmental Solutions, to uncover the common mistakes businesses make when handling hazardous materials, and the serious consequences those mistakes can create.

From fire risks to environmental damage and legal consequences, this episode explains why awareness and proper handling are critical.

The core idea

If you don’t recognise hazardous waste, you can’t manage it safely.

Many businesses unintentionally put their people, premises and surrounding environment at risk simply because they don’t fully understand what qualifies as hazardous.

In this episode

1. What actually counts as hazardous waste (and what often gets missed)
2. The hidden dangers of everyday materials like cleaning chemicals and oily rags
3. How poor handling can lead to fires, contamination and compliance issues
4. Why “out of sight” waste is often the biggest risk
5. The role of awareness training in preventing incidents
6. How simple changes can dramatically reduce risk

Why this matters

Hazardous waste mistakes don’t just create operational problems.

They can:

1. Put staff safety at risk
2. Damage the local environment
3. Lead to fines or enforcement action
4. Disrupt your business

The biggest issue? Most of these risks are avoidable with the right awareness and processes.

Take the next step

If you’re unsure whether hazardous materials are being handled correctly in your business, Environmental Solutions offers:

1. Free site visits
2. Hazard awareness training
3. Waste compliance support
4. Practical, tailored guidance for your team

Find out more here:

http://eswm.org.uk/whatawaste/

Final thought

If something in your business might be hazardous, it probably is.

And if it’s not being managed correctly, it’s already a risk.