The King County local hazardous waste program is an intensive effort to reduce and properly manage hazardous waste through education, collection and technical assistance. In 1991 county residents and businesses dumped an estimated 25 pounds per person of hazardous waste in the trash, down the sewer, into storm drains or directly onto the ground. The wastes include pesticides, paints, motor oil, printing inks and other materials. Program services help these businesses comply with regulations and reduce waste. The Business Waste Line answers questions from small businesses and agencies about hazardous waste.
Staff also make referrals to other agencies and vendors and sends out print materials.
The line may be used to report complaints and hazardous waste violations. Calls are anonymous if requested. Technical Assistance Technical help with waste reduction, recycling and treatment is provided directly to small businesses by the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program staff. The program promotes the exchange of information between those that develop new technologies and options and those that need them. Engineers and others conduct studies to determine whether certain waste materials are hazardous or not and which methods of treatment are most practical.