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Proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste, especially mercury and other highly toxic substances, is not just a matter of safety, it’s a legal and ethical obligation. As global awareness of hazardous waste’s environmental and human health impacts grows, so does the complexity of the regulations that govern its movement and treatment. At Hg Ops, we specialise in navigating these complexities to ensure full compliance with international norms and standards, including the Basel Convention, Minamata Convention, ADR, and IMDG Code.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Basel & Minamata Conventions

Two of the most critical international agreements governing hazardous waste are the Basel Convention and the Minamata Convention:

The Basel Convention regulates the transboundary movement of hazardous waste and requires proper consent procedures between countries involved in the export, transit, and import of waste. Its core aim is to ensure waste is only moved when it can be handled in an environmentally sound manner at its destination. Navigating the necessary paperwork can be complex, but at Hg Ops we have the experience and network to support a smooth process.

The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a global treaty specifically designed to protect human health and the environment from mercury emissions and releases. It places strict controls on mercury waste management which are mirrored and often added to in national legislation. Our team knows the legislation intimately and can guide clients to ensure full compliance.

By starting your waste project with these frameworks in mind we can avoid costly delays later in the process.

Transportation Compliance: ADR & IMDG Code

Once waste is packaged and ready for transport, it must also comply with transport-specific regulations:

• ADR (Accord européen relatif au transport international des marchandises Dangereuses par Route) governs the road transport of hazardous materials across Europe. This legislation has equivalents around the world in national legislations. It outlines strict requirements for classification, packaging, labelling, documentation, and vehicle safety.
• IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) Code applies to sea transport and similarly mandates proper packaging, labelling, and documentation to prevent spills, contamination, or accidents during shipment.

At Hg Ops, we ensure that hazardous waste shipments are fully compliant with both ADR and IMDG, helping clients avoid fines and safety risks during transit.

Meeting the Requirements of Treatment & Disposal Facilities

Even before waste is moved, it must be carefully assessed to ensure it meets the specific acceptance criteria of the treatment or disposal facility that will receive it. These facilities often have strict technical and regulatory requirements based on the type of waste, its chemical composition, and the chosen treatment method (e.g., incineration, stabilisation, or recycling).

Sending non-compliant waste can result in rejected loads, delays, and added costs, not to mention potential environmental liabilities.

How Hg Ops Can Help

Hg Ops offers a full suite of services to help you manage your mercury and hazardous waste from cradle to grave in a fully compliant, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner:

• Waste Identification & Quantification
  We identify, quantify and classify hazardous waste, including mercury waste, using chemical analysis and regulatory definitions.
• Procedures and training
  We work with our clients from the start to transfer knowledge and ensure the correct procedures, training and equipment are in place to protect workers and clients.
• Sourcing Treatment & Disposal Facilities
  We help clients locate appropriate, licensed treatment and disposal facilities worldwide that can safely handle the specific waste type.
• Packaging, Sorting & Labelling
  We ensure that waste is properly packaged, sorted, and labelled in accordance with ADR, IMDG, and any national or facility-specific requirements.
• Route Planning & Transport Coordination
  We map out the safest, most efficient, and legally permissible transport routes, including coordination with transit countries if applicable.
• Basel Convention Paperwork Processing
  We manage all Basel Convention procedures, including notifications, consents, and tracking documentation for transboundary waste shipments.

Conclusion

Navigating the global framework for hazardous waste management is a complex but essential task. At Hg Ops, our mission is to make compliance not only possible but seamless. With our expertise in mercury and hazardous waste, our clients can be confident that every shipment meets international legal standards, protects the environment, and contributes to a safer world.

If you're managing mercury or hazardous waste and need a trusted partner to guide you through the process, contact Hg Ops today. We’re here to help. Safely, legally, and responsibly.