Policy on Hazardous Waste Disposal

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Purpose

Redeemer’s University is dedicated to safeguarding human health, protecting the environment. This policy establishes the framework for the safe management, handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste generated through academic, laboratory, medical, and maintenance activities within the university.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all hazardous materials are identified, managed, and disposed of responsibly, in compliance with national environmental standards and international best practices, thereby preventing contamination of soil, water, and living organisms.



Scope

This policy applies to all:

  1. University departments and research centres, particularly laboratories, medical and biological facilities, workshops, and engineering units that generate or handle hazardous
  2. Administrative and maintenance units, including waste management, sanitation, and facility operations.
  3. Outsourced contractors and waste disposal partners involved in handling, transporting, or processing hazardous materials on behalf of the university.
  4. Students, staff, and researchers engaged in laboratory or fieldwork activities involving chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances.

The policy covers all forms of hazardous waste — chemical, biological, infectious, radiological, and electronic waste — generated during university operations.



Policy Statement

Redeemer’s University maintains a strong commitment to environmental stewardship through responsible hazardous waste management. The university shall:

  1. Identify and Classify Hazardous Waste

    • All hazardous materials used in laboratories, workshops, or medical facilities will be clearly identified, labeled, and categorized according to national and international standards.

  2. Ensure Safe Collection and Storage

    • Hazardous waste will be stored in clearly marked, leak-proof containers in designated secure areas prior to disposal or treatment.
    • Temporary storage areas will be inspected regularly to prevent spills, leaks, or contamination.

  3. Adopt Approved Disposal Methods

    • The university will collaborate only with licensed hazardous waste management companies to ensure safe transportation and disposal of chemical, biological, and electronic waste.
    • Waste disposal methods will comply with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) guidelines and other relevant environmental laws.

  4. Training and Awareness

    • Staff, students, and contractors involved in waste handling will receive periodic training on hazardous material safety, emergency response, and environmental protection.

  5. Pollution Prevention and Minimization

    • The university promotes the reduction, recycling, and treatment of hazardous materials wherever feasible.
    • Research and laboratory operations are encouraged to adopt green chemistry and waste minimization practices.

  6. Emergency Response and Reporting

    • Redeemer’s University will maintain a structured Hazardous Spill Response Plan.
    • Any incident of spill or contamination must be promptly reported to the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Office for immediate containment and remediation.


University Responsibilities

Redeemer’s University, through the Physical Planning and Works Department, the Centre for Environmental Research and Control (CERC), and the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Unit, is responsible for implementing this policy by:

  1. Conducting routine environmental audits to monitor compliance with hazardous waste disposal standards.
  2. Establishing partnerships with approved hazardous waste handlers for the safe removal and treatment of toxic substances.
  3. Maintaining a database of hazardous materials used and disposed of by departments.
  4. Ensuring compliance with national environmental laws, including NESREA and the Federal Ministry of Environment regulations.


Implementation and Review

The Directorate of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance (DAPQA) will oversee the periodic evaluation of this policy to ensure its continued effectiveness. An annual Hazardous Waste Management Report will be prepared to document progress, incidents, and compliance measures. This policy will be reviewed every three years or sooner if new regulations or institutional requirements arise.

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