Summary: Collecting and Recycling Used Contaminated HDPE Drums
Used contaminated HDPE drums are collected, handled, and stored in compliance with applicable environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations to prevent spills, leaks, and exposure.
Drums that previously contained hazardous or non-hazardous substances are identified, labeled, and segregated according to the type of contamination.
Transportation is carried out by authorized carriers using approved vehicles and
documentation (e.g., waste manifests) to ensure regulatory traceability.
Upon receipt at licensed recycling or reconditioning facilities, drums are inspected to assess contamination levels, structural integrity, and suitability for reuse.
Decontamination is performed using approved cleaning methods such as high-pressure washing, steam cleaning, or chemical treatment, in accordance with environmental and occupational safety standards.
Residual contents, wash water, and cleaning wastes are collected, treated, and disposed of at permitted facilities in line with hazardous and non-hazardous waste regulations.
Drums suitable for reuse are leak-tested and quality-checked to ensure compliance with industry and transport standards (e.g., UN/DOT packaging requirements).
Drums that fail inspection or testing are mechanically recycled, with HDPE material
shredded, washed, and reprocessed through approved plastic recycling systems.
Recycling and reuse of HDPE drums reduces virgin plastic consumption, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The process ensures regulatory compliance, safe waste management, and supports circular economy and sustainability objectives.
