WASTE MANAGEMENT - Antarctica New Zealand · Antarctica New Zealand is committed to complying with the requirements of the Protocol. Current Antarctica New Zealand waste management

WASTE MANAGEMENT

2015-2016

Antarctica New Zealand

VisionAntarctica and the Southern Ocean: Valued, Protected, Understood.

PurposeInspiring people to connect with Antarctica through knowledge and collaboration.

ValuesWe are a high performing organisation underpinned by a culture of shared beliefs.

To honour our obligation to Antarctica:

• Wearepassionateaboutwhatwedo

• Wecareforeachotherandtheenvironment

• Weworktogether

• Weactwithintegrity

• Weaspiretothehigheststandards

Waste Management

Antarctica New ZealandInternational Antarctic Centre, 38 Orchard Road

PrivateBag4745,Christchurch8140New Zealand

Tel 6433580200

www.facebook.com/Antarctica.New.Zealand

@antarcticaNZ

www.adam.antarcticanz.govt.nz

www.antarcticanz.govt.nz

We are certified to Enviro-Mark®NZ Diamond level.

Cover ImageUn-sorted rubbish and compostPhoto by Tim Higham © Antarctica New Zealand Pictorial Collection

ISSN 1177-4320 Printed:August2015

This publication is printed on fully recyclable stocks using FSC certified mixed source pulp from well-managed forests and other controlled sources. The paper is manufactured in a totally chlorine free process.

Please recycle this manual after use.

Team Process

Understand Context, Purpose & Constraints

Team Leader Team Member

Explain Context, Purpose & Constraints

Identify Critical Issues

Contribute Ideas / Listen to Others

Encourage Contributions


Decide, Explain Plan Accept Decisions

Assign Tasks

Monitor Progress / Coach

Cooperate / Accept Coaching

Review Demand Review

Clarify Tasks

Task Assignment

Context situation and background about the task Purpose to be achieved by accomplishing the task Quality of the output of the task Quantity to be produced by the task Resources available to complete the task Time by which the task is to be completed

Team Process

Understand Context, Purpose & Constraints

Team Leader Team Member

Explain Context, Purpose & Constraints

Identify Critical Issues


Encourage Contributions


Decide, Explain Plan Accept Decisions

Assign Tasks

Monitor Progress / Coach

Cooperate / Accept Coaching

Review Demand Review

Clarify Tasks

Task Assignment

Context situation and background about the task Purpose to be achieved by accomplishing the task Quality of the output of the task Quantity to be produced by the task Resources available to complete the task Time by which the task is to be completed

Table of Contents1. Introduction .......................................................................................................1 1.1. Purposeandaimsofthishandbook .......................................................1 1.2. WastemanagementintheAntarctic.......................................................1 1.3. Howtousethishandbook ....................................................................1

2. Waste Management Procedures ..........................................................................2 2.1. AntarcticaNewZealand’swastemanagementcycle ...............................2 2.2. Responsibilityforwastemanagement .....................................................4

3. Waste Minimisation ............................................................................................6 3.1. Whyminimisewaste? ..........................................................................6 3.2. Wasteminimisationmeasures ...............................................................7

4. Prohibited Products ............................................................................................9 4.1. ProductsnottobesenttoAntarctica ......................................................9 4.2. ProductsdiscouragedbyAntarcticaNewZealand ..................................9 4.3. Itemsrequiringapermit .......................................................................9

5. Documentation .................................................................................................10 5.1. Wastelabelling .................................................................................10 5.2. Wastetracking ..................................................................................10

6. General Waste .................................................................................................11 6.1. ScottBase ........................................................................................11 6.2. Inthefield ........................................................................................11

7. Recyclables ......................................................................................................12 7.1 Generalprocedures ...........................................................................12 7.2 Glass ...............................................................................................13 7.3 Metalcans .......................................................................................14 7.4 Aluminiumcans .................................................................................14 7.5 Othermetalproducts .........................................................................14

8. Hazardous Waste ............................................................................................16 8.1 Generalprocedures ...........................................................................16 8.2 Oilproducts .....................................................................................17 8.3 Antifreeze ........................................................................................18 8.4 Batteries ...........................................................................................18 8.5 Asbestos...........................................................................................18 8.6 Aerosols ...........................................................................................19

8.7 Explosives ........................................................................................19 8.8 Paint products ...................................................................................19 8.9 Detergents, disinfectants and glue .......................................................19 8.10Compressedgascylinders ..................................................................20 8.11Mercury ...........................................................................................20 8.12Radioactivewaste .............................................................................20 8.13Vermiculite ........................................................................................21 8.14Otherchemicals ................................................................................21 8.15Breakables .......................................................................................21

9. Biohazardous Waste ........................................................................................22 9.1 Generalprocedures ...........................................................................22 9.2 Foodwaste .......................................................................................22 9.3 Food contaminated waste ...................................................................22 9.4 Medicalwaste ..................................................................................23 9.5 Expiredmedicalsupplies ....................................................................23 9.6 Sanitary waste ..................................................................................23 9.7 Laboratorybiologicalwaste................................................................24 9.8 Human field waste .............................................................................24 9.9 ScottBasedomesticliquidwaste .........................................................25 9.10 CapeBirddomesticliquidwaste .........................................................25

Appendices ......................................................................................................26Abbreviations ......................................................................................................31

1WASTE MANAGEMENT

1. Introduction1.1 Purpose and aims of this handbookThepurposeof thishandbook is toprovideAntarcticaNewZealandstaffwithpracticalprocedures for the handling, storage and disposal of waste in Antarctica and Christchurch. The handbook is intended to aid in the planning of Antarctica New Zealand waste managementactivitiesandtoprovideabackgroundtotheAntarcticaNewZealandwastemanagement system.

Thehandbookcovers thewastecycle fromthepointofgeneration (i.e.before itemsaresent to Antarctica) to the return of waste to New Zealand. Each waste type is treatedseparatelyinthehandbookreflectingthedifferenthandlinganddisposalmeasuresrequired.Strong emphasis is placed on waste minimisation strategies and the importance of correct packaging and labelling of waste intended for return to New Zealand.

1.2 Waste management in the AntarcticAntarctica New Zealand must comply with international regulations for waste management agreedtobycountrieswhohavesignedtheAntarcticTreaty.Theseagreements,principallyAnnexIIIoftheProtocolonEnvironmentalProtectiontotheAntarcticTreaty(theProtocol),setout specific rules for waste disposal and management and aims to ensure that the impacts of wasteactivitiesonthefragileAntarcticenvironmentareminimised.TheProtocolisenforcedinNewZealandlegislationthroughtheAntarctica(EnvironmentalProtection)Act1994.

AntarcticaNewZealandiscommittedtocomplyingwiththerequirementsoftheProtocol.CurrentAntarcticaNewZealandwastemanagementprocedures(setoutinthishandbook)reflectthiscommitment.ThesuccessfulimplementationofAntarcticaNewZealand’swastemanagement procedures is dependent on people in Antarctica and Christchurch following the procedures in this handbook.

1.3 How to use this handbookThishandbookshouldbereferredtobyallpeopleinvolvedinthehandling,storageanddisposalofwastematerialsatScottBase,atfieldsitesandinChristchurch.

Users should refer to the appropriate section of the handbook for the correct procedures to deal with each type of waste generated in Antarctica. Specific procedures are set out for the separation, handling, storage and disposal of the following waste types:

• Generalwaste• Recyclables • Hazardouswaste(i.e.chemicalandbiohazardous)

Antarctica New Zealand staff with responsibility for different aspects of the waste managementsystemareidentifiedinSection2.2.Refertothissectiontodetermineyourrolein the Antarctica New Zealand waste management system.

Suggestionsarewelcomeonwaystoimproveproceduresorthisdocumentation.

2 WASTE MANAGEMENT

2. Waste Management Procedures2.1 Antarctica New Zealand’s waste management cycleAntarcticaNewZealand’soverallpolicystatementonwastemanagementis:

Antarctica New Zealand will minimise, reuse and recycle waste generated by its activities as far as practicable and will ensure that waste is disposed of with minimal environmental impacts. Waste management planning will examine the use, where appropriate, of alternative technologies, materials and disposal options, and identify areas of past activity which require future clean up and/or remediation.

Minimisationisthekeymeansofreducingthelogisticandenvironmentalimpactsofwaste.Oncewasteisgenerated,however,animportantbasisfortheproceduresistherequirementto separate waste to allow appropriate handling and disposal. The main components of the waste management system are summarised below.

Waste separation

Waste is separated into three main types: general (non-hazardous, non-recyclable);recyclable, and hazardous (chemical andbiohazardous). The types ofwastewhich fallintoeachofthesecategoriesandtheirdisposalroutesarelistedinTable1(seepage50).

Antarctica New Zealand waste disposal routes

Almost all waste is returned to New Zealand each season by ship.

The exception is waste which has been processed by the waste water treatment plant. At ScottBasesewageandgreywaterare treatedusingafixedbedbiologicalsystemwithozonesterilisation,anddischargedintothesea.Residualsolids(screenedsolidsandsolidwaste by-products) from the plant are returned to New Zealand for disposal.

Someeventsmaybegrantedpermissiontodisposeofurineandgreywaterintotheseaor ice, but this will be assessed on a case-by-case. Tthe general rule is to return it to Scott Baseforprocessingthroughthewastewatertreatmentplant.SeealsoSection9.8formoreinformation.

InChristchurch,hazardouswasteissent(asappropriate)tospecialistdisposaloperators.Recyclable materials are sent for recycling and general non-hazardous waste is disposed of in the Christchurch landfill.

ThehandlinganddisposalofdifferentwastetypesissummarisedinAppendix1(page28).

3WASTE MANAGEMENT

Table1:WastetypescommonlygeneratedthroughAntarcticaNewZealandoperations.

Waste Types Items Disposal/Reuse Path

General

Non-recyclable card and paperEnvelopewindowscanbedisposedofwiththerestoftheenvelopeinrecyclingFabric(ifcannotbereused)Non-recyclable timberNon-recyclable construction wasteMiscellaneousnon-recyclable,non-hazardousitems

Returned to Christchurch and taken to landfill.

Recyclables

Clean glassMetalWashed steels cansAluminium cansCardboardAll clean paperCleanplastic(all)Polystyrene

Returned to New Zealand for recycling.

Hazardous – chemical

Oil productsAntifreezeBatteriesAsbestosAerosolsExplosivesPaint productsDetergents, disinfectants, and glueCompressed gas cylindersPhoto chemicalsMercuryRadioactivewasteChemicals

Returned to New Zealand for appropriate disposal.

Hazardous - biohazardous

Food wasteFood contaminatedMedicalwasteHuman field wasteWaste water treatment plant by-productsSanitary wasteSharps

Biohazardouswastereturned to New Zealand for sterilisation and deep burial.

4 WASTE MANAGEMENT

2.2 Responsibility for waste managementThe General Manager Health Safety and Environment holds overall responsibility forAntarcticaNewZealand’swastemanagement.Responsibilities for the implementationofthe waste management system are outlined below:

Important: Although specific waste management responsibly rest with particularindividualsandpositions,eachpersonwhoproduceswasteofanykind must ensure the waste is clearly identified before it is passed onwards to the next person.

Waste management responsibilities – Scott BaseAll personnel Separate waste materials and place in appropriate containers

orstorageareasatScottBase.

Scott Base Services Ensure that all base staff have the resources necessary toSupervisor: carry out their waste management responsibilities and brief

allvisitorstoScottBaseontheirindividualwastemanagementresponsibilities.

OverseewastemanagementtasksundertakenbyBaseservicestaff.

Cargo Handler: Document, correctly pack, and return waste to New Zealand, including hazardous waste and dangerous goods. The Cargo Handler may refuse to accept any materials that are not appropriately identified or packaged.

Chefs: Ensurethatallkitchenwasteisproperlydisposedof,includingseparation of recyclables and implementation of relevantsectionsoftheAntarcticaNewZealandBiosecurityPolicy.

Domestics: EmptyrecyclingbinsaroundtheBaseandtakethebagstotherelevantstoragecontainers.

Engineering Holds overall responsibility for wastemanagement at ScottSupervisor: Base. Oversight of material safety data sheets, hazardous

substance storage and handling, sewage treatment plant operation and waste discharge into the sea.

Plant Operator: In the summer collect waste from storage containers around Base. Process, store, document and pack into designatedshipping containers for return to New Zealand.

Base Engineer (Power): In the winter collect waste from storage containers around Base. Process, store, document and pack into designatedshipping containers for return to New Zealand.

5WASTE MANAGEMENT

Base Engineer (Water): Monitortheoverallperformanceofthewastewatertreatmentplant with respect to Field Support introducing field grey water andurineviatheurinestation.Packagesewertreatmentplantsolid waste by-product and place for collection.

Programme Support Identify any specific waste management requirements ofSupervisor: fieldparties,makesureeacheventhasadesignatedwaste

managementperson,andoverseewastemanagementinthefield.

Field Support: Provide field eventswith appropriate containers, bags andother requirements for carrying out waste managementprocedures in the field. Stow human field poo on return, process field urine and carry out Cargo Handler’s role inwinter.

Field Training Providefieldwastemanagement information tofieldpartiesInstructors: and demonstrate field waste handling requirements and

procedures.

Field Event EnsurefieldwastemanagementproceduresareimplementedWaste Officer: in the field, and waste is taken to the correct storage areas on

return.

First Aid: Overseethesafedisposalofmedicalwaste.

Mechanic: Ensurewaste ingaragearea,suchaswasteoils,oilyrags,filters, etc. are correctly collected and labelled.

Science Technician: SupportBasestaffandsciencepersonnelwiththeprocessingofhazardoussubstancesassociatedwithscienceevents.

Waste management responsibilities – Christchurch

All staff: Exploreandmaximiseopportunitiesforwasteminimisationinwork areas and eliminate the use of prohibited products.

Overseewastemanagementprocedures.

Environmental Reviewwastemanagementprocedures,monitorcomplianceManager: andeffectivenessandobtainlocalauthorityandMPIpermits

forwaste importationanddisposal as required.Developasustainable procurement policy.

Accounts and Oversee and review Antarctica New Zealand purchasingPurchasing lists, ensuring that suppliers are aware of prohibited items andCoordinator: special requirements. Introducesustainablepractices in line

with policy.

6 WASTE MANAGEMENT

General Manager MaintainhighleveloversightofallwastehandlingincludingAssets and Engineering: procurement of waste handling equipment and suitable

waste containers and packaging of waste for return to New Zealand.

On-going overview and management of Scott Base wastestreamsensuringadequateresourcesareavailable.

Logistics Manager: OverseereturnofwastetoNewZealand,includingreceipt,handling and disposal in Christchurch and coordination with MPIandlocalauthorities.

Arrange disposal of human field / sewage plant waste in Christchurchthroughapprovedorganisations.

Logistics Officer (Cargo):Pack,certifyanddispatchAntarcticcargo.Receiveallwastefrom Antarctica and arrange for disposal in Christchurch after appropriateapprovalhasbeengiven.

3. Waste Minimisation3.1 Why minimise waste?ThelesswasteAntarcticactivitiesgenerate,thelesswastethereistodisposeof.DisposalofAntarcticwastehasbothenvironmentalandfinancialcosts.Byminimisingthevolumeofwaste produced, these costs can be reduced.

Wasteminimisationinvolvesthreemaincomponents;• Reducewastevolume• Reuse materials • Recycling materials

Forwasteminimisationtobeeffective,effortmustbemadeineachofthesethreeareas.Waste minimisation should be a key consideration in all areas of Antarctica New Zealand operations from purchasing to packaging waste and cargo for return to New Zealand, as showninthediagramonpage10.Thissectionofthehandbooksetsoutmeasuresforwasteminimisation which apply across Antarctica New Zealand.

7WASTE MANAGEMENT

3.2 Waste minimisation measuresThefollowingguidelinesandproceduressetoutthepracticalmeasuresrequiredtominimisewastevolumes.

Measures to reduce waste volumes

Purchasing guidelines

AntarcticaNewZealandhasdevelopedasetofguidelines toassiststaff responsible forpurchasing materials that will be sent to Antarctica. The purchasing guidelines are set out infull inAppendix2(page32).TheguidelinesshouldbefollowedbytheAccountsandPurchasing Coordinator and any other Antarctica New Zealand staff purchasing items to be sent to Antarctica, including all budget holders.

Packaging

Excessivepackaging

• Manufacturer’sproductpackagingisoftenexcessiveandnotrequired.TheLogisticsCargoOfficer, where practicable, is to remove any packaging not required totransport the goods to Antarctica

Inappropriate packaging materials

• ItislikelythatitemswillarriveattheAntarcticaNewZealandstoreinChristchurchpackedinmaterialswhichcannotbesenttoAntarctica.TheLogisticsCargoOfficerwill replace all polystyrene beads, chips or similar forms of loose packaging with bubblewrap,cardboardorpaper.Vermiculite(refertosection8.13)isonlytobeusedwhenpackinghazardousliquids

• AtScottBase,theCargoHandleristousecardboard,bubblewrapandpapertopack cargo for return to New Zealand. Vermiculite is only to be used when packing hazardousliquids

Reuse of materials

The reuse of materials is an effective way to minimise the amount of waste produced.Opportunities for reuse occur in most work areas. In particular the following measures should be taken:

• Reuseofficepaperwhereverpossible• Double side photocopying if appropriate • ReusetimberandmetaloffcutsatScottBasewherepossible• Reuse fabric off cuts or worn out clothing as rags in the work shops where the fabric is

suitable for this purpose • Storepackagingmaterialssuchaspaper,bubblewrap,cardboardandvermiculitefor

reuse

Recycling materials

Recycling involves separating and collecting material which would otherwise join thegeneral waste stream so it can be reprocessed into other products. Antarctica New Zealand

8 WASTE MANAGEMENT

currently recycles all metal, metal cans, aluminium cans, corrugated cardboard, mixed paperandcard(notcontaminatedwithfood),plastic(alltypesincludingbanding,courierbags,bottles,etc.).RefertoSection7ofthishandbookforspecifichandlingandtransportprocedures for recyclable materials.

WASTE MINIMISATION

Treated by the WWTP at Scott

Base

Domestic Liquid

Specialist disposal in

Christchurch

Hazardous

LandfillinChristchurch

Waste separation at Scott Base Labelledcollectionpoints

Careful handlingCorrect packing, storage

General

Returned to NZ for Recycling

Use at Scott BaseReuse packaging

Reuse copy paper for notesReuse timber, metal and fabrics

Recyclables

Cargo MovementsReusable packaging

UnnecessarypackagingremovedChecking for prohibited items

Purchasing in ChristchurchDurable itemsLowpackagingLowwastage

9WASTE MANAGEMENT

4. Prohibited Products4.1 Products not to be sent to AntarcticaThe following products are not to be posted, taken by any person or sent in any cargo to Antarctica:

• Polychlorinatedbiphenyls(PCBs)• Non-sterile soil • Polystyrene beads, chips or similar forms of packaging (except vermiculite which islimitedtopackagingofhazardousliquidwaste)

• Pesticides(otherthanthoserequiredforscientific,medicalorhygienepurposes)

The Accounts and Purchasing Coordinator and budget holders are to ensure that none of these products are purchased by Antarctica New Zealand for sending to Antarctica. Food itemslikelytocarrysoil(e.g.vegetables)aretobewashedandthisrequirementspecifiedto the supplier.

TheLogisticsCargoOfficerisresponsibleforchecking,asfaraspracticable,allsouthboundcargo to ensure it does not contain prohibited products.

All Antarctic personnel are to be informed of the prohibition of these products in information sentoutpriortothemleavingNewZealand

4.2 Products discouraged by Antarctica New ZealandTheuseofpolyvinylchloride(PVC)andvermiculiteproductsistobediscouragedexceptwhere no practicable alternative exists. The Antarctica New Zealand Accounts andPurchasingCoordinator andbudget holders are tomake every effort to ensure that thepurchaseofPVCproductsandvermiculitepackagingisminimised.

The use of untreated wood is to be minimised due to the risk of introducing mold. This includes wood used for packing and boxing out freight.

4.3 Items requiring a permitA permit is required by any person intending to take or send to Antarctica any of thefollowing items:

• Radionuclides • Anynon-native(non-indigenous)speciesofanimalorplant(includingseeds)• Anynon-nativemicroorganism(includingviruses,bacteria,parasites,fungiandyeasts)and• Non-sterile soil

Application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) to take these items toAntarctica should be made as part of the annual Preliminary Environmental ImpactAssessmentprocessviatheAntarcticaNewZealandEnvironmentalManager.AnyplantoranimalforwhichanauthorisationhasbeenissuedistoberemovedfromAntarcticaafteruse.ThissectiondoesnotapplytotheimportationoffoodintoAntarcticaprovidedthatnoliveanimalsareimported.

10 WASTE MANAGEMENT

5. DocumentationAllwasteintendedforreturntoNewZealandmustbeadequatelylabelledanddocumentedin accordance with the following procedures. It is the responsibility of the Cargo Handler (summer) and Field Support (winter) to ensure that all chemical or biological waste iscorrectlylabelledandinventoried.

Important: The origin and identity of waste of any kind should always be known before it is taken to, or accepted by, the Cargo Handler.

5.1 Waste labellingCorrect,clearlabellingisessentialforallwastereturnedtoNewZealand.RemoveALLoldlabelsfromcuberdrumsorwastecontainersorplacenewlabelsdirectlyovertheoldones.

Eachitemmustbelabelledtodisplaythefollowinginformation:

• Briefdescriptionofthecontents• Hazardouslabellingasrequired• TransportationControlNumber(TCN)attimeofshipment

Sticky labels tend to come off metal containers, including drums. The contents and packing date should therefore be clearly painted on these using stencils, spray paint or paint sticks.

5.2 Waste trackingThemovementofallAntarcticaNewZealandcargo,includingwaste,isintegratedwiththeUnitedStatesAntarcticProgramme(USAP).ConsulttheCargoHandler’sdeskfilefordetailson filling out appropriate forms and general cargo handling procedures. The TCN must be included on all waste container labels.

TheLogisticsTeamatAntarcticaNewZealandinChristchurch,receivesallgeneralwastereturnedfromScottBaseandarrangesforitsonwarddispatch,disposal,recyclingorreuseas appropriate. All human, waste water treatment plant, food and food contaminated waste isshippeddirectly fromAntarctica toanMPIapproved treatment facility.Containersaredevanned and steam cleaned before they are returned to the AntarcticaNew Zealandwarehouse.ItisessentialthattheLogisticsTeamisfullyawareofthecontentsofallwastecontainersreturnedfromAntarctica.Allwastecargoistohaveapackingscheduleattachedgivingdetailsofitscontentsandanyspecialhandlingrequirements.

Important: If at all unsure about the contents of any waste container intended for return to New Zealand, ask the generator or originator of that waste for more details. This is particularly important for any waste that is hazardousorthatrequiresspecialdisposaland/orimportapprovals.

No waste item or container will be accepted for return to New Zealand if the exact nature of the waste is unknown.

11WASTE MANAGEMENT

6. General WasteGeneralwasteincludesnon-recyclable,non-hazardoussolidwastesuchasnon-recyclable paper and card, fabric, timber and construction waste and other miscellaneous items. All general waste is to be suitably packaged in black rubbishbags,woolpacksorloadeddirectintoshippingcontainersifit’slargeand unpractical to bag in accordance with the following procedures. All general waste is taken to landfill on return to New Zealand.

6.1 Scott Base

Compactable items

Small, compactable items such as non-recyclable paper and card are to be placed in the labelledrubbishbinsandrecyclingstationsWASTENON-RECYCLABLEaroundScottBase.Thiswasteisdesignedforlandfillsotakecaretoremoveallrecyclables.

Domestics are responsible for emptying the recycling stations and bins in communal areas. Occupants of sleeping rooms and the workshops are responsible for emptying their own bins and bags into the appropriate container. Full bags are to be placed in the large steel binoutsidethebaroroutsidethekitchen(downthesteps).

ItistheresponsibilityoftheEngineeringSupervisortoensurethatgeneralwasteistakenfrom the landings, compacted into bales, labelled GENERALWASTE, weighed, detailsrecorded and loaded into the shipping container designated for general waste.

Large items

Scrap timbercanbecutupandplaced in thewoolpackoutside theCarpenter’s shop.For other bulky items or equipment forwhich no further use can be found seek advisefrom the Engineering Supervisor. Some equipment may be recyclable in Christchurch.ContacttheLogisticsTeampriortoshippingtoallowarrangementstobemade.FollowthedocumentationproceduresinSection5.

6.2 In the fieldGeneralwasteinthefieldistobecollectedindoubleblackbags.ItistheresponsibilityofthedesignatedWasteOfficerwithineacheventtoensurethatallwastetypesareseparated,labelledanddepositedtothecorrectplacesatScottBase.GeneralwastebagsaretobeplacedinthelabelledcageinthewastehandlingfacilityonreturntoScottBase.

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7. RecyclablesRecyclables include all recyclable glass, scrap metal, metal cans, aluminium cans, corrugated cardboard, newsprint paper and office paper. Recycling stations have been placed atvariouspositionsaroundtheBase.ThereareatotalofeightrecyclingstationsatScottBase.All recyclables are to be disposed of in accordance with the following procedures.

7.1 General proceduresAllrecyclablesofthetypeslistedinTable1(page5)generatedatScottBaseandinthefield, are to be returned to New Zealand for recycling. Collection points for recyclable wasteareplacedinthefollowinglocations,closetowherethemajorityofrecyclablesaregenerated.

Glass Wheeliebinbysmokershutdoorbar(removeallcorks,lids,and caps).

Metal Bin in themechanicsworkshop,engineeringworkshopandoutside the garage.

Metal cans Bininsidethekitchen.

Aluminium cans Can crusher in bar.

Corrugated cardboard Neatly flattened and tied into bundles then taken directly to thewaste handling facility (Hangar) or the Hillary FieldCentre.

Mixed paper and card Recycling stations and boxes (includes newsprint andmagazines).

One sided office paper In appropriate green boxes in Hatherton Lab andAdministrationarea (tobe re-used fornotepaperandscrappaper).

Plastics (all) Bottlesandcontainers=rinsed, lidsremoved,flattenedandtaken to appropriate recycling stations.

Polystyrene All polystyrene is to be stored separately in the Hangar.

Recyclable field waste

Double green rubbish bags are to be used for all recyclable waste returned from the field. It isthechoiceoftheeventwhethertoseparatethevariousrecyclabletypesinthefieldoronreturntoBase,buttheWasteOfficerwithineacheventisresponsibleforensuringthattheyareseparatedandtakendirectlytothecorrectcollectionpointonBase.Metalfoodcansmust be washed before placing in the appropriate recycling container.

13WASTE MANAGEMENT

General recyclable waste packing and labelling

Most recyclables are returned toNew Zealand by ship. The Engineering Supervisor isresponsible for designating a shipping container for recyclables and ensuring the recyclable wastecollectedaroundBaseistakentothecorrectcontainerandpackedappropriately.TheCargo Handler needs to be consulted for any unusual items, and is in charge of shipping documentation.Occasionallyshipmentsbyairmaybemade.Inthecaseofanymovementsbyair,theCargoHandlerisresponsibleforreceiving,packing,weighing,recordingandstoring the recyclable waste.

As far as practicable, separate outers should be used for different recyclable types. For example,useaseparateouterforcorrugatedcardboardandanotherfornewsprint.Balesofcompacted cardboard, steel cans, aluminium cans and full drums or bins of other recyclables canbeloadeddirectlyintocontainers.Eachouteranddrumistobeclearlylabelled.

Bulkyplasticormetalitemscanbetransportedseparatelyandmustbeadequatelylabelled.Details relating to the handling of each recyclable type are outlined in the section below. Section5shouldbeconsultedforinstructionsondocumentationforreturntoNewZealand.

Disposal in Christchurch

Onarrival inChristchurch, recyclablewaste is to be collected by or transported to theappropriate recycling company.

TheLogisticsManagerisresponsibleforcoordinatingtheonwardmovementofallrecyclablematerials in Christchurch.

7.2 GlassGlass includes all waste bottles and broken or disused glassware with theexception of window and windscreen glass. All glass waste is to be placed in special bins located inside the office.

All waste bottles and glassware from the bar are to be placed in the wheelie bin by the bar door.

Bottlesaretobetakentothewastehandlingfacilitywheretheywillberemovedfrom plastic bags/ liners and loaded into one of the large black plastic bins for returntoNewZealand.LabelGLASSBOTTLESFORRECYCLING.

Bottlesarenottobebrokenandshouldbereturnedaswholebottles.Thereisno need to sort by colour.

NB:Specialcareistobetakenwhenhandlinganyglass,ensurefullPersonalProtectiveEquipment(PPE)iswornatalltimes.

Brokenglassshouldonlybeplacedinthebrokenglassbucketbythebardoor.

14 WASTE MANAGEMENT

7.3 Metal cansMetalcansincludeallemptysteelfoodcans.Cleanmetalcansaretobeplacedin the labelled bin located in the kitchen office.

Allmetalfoodcansmustbewashedtoremovefoodresidues.Cansaretohavebothendsremovedandbesquashedbeforeplacinginthebin.

Bagscontainingmetalcansaretobetakentothewastehandlingfacilitywherethecontentswillberemovedandplacedinbales,compactedandloadedintotheshippingcontainerdesignatedforrecyclablesforreturntoNewZealand.LabelbalesMETALCANS.

7.4 Aluminium cansAluminium cans include all soft drink cans and beer cans. Aluminium cans are tobecrushedin thecancrusher in theScottBasebarandplacedin thebinbeneath labelled aluminium cans only. Domestics place bags of cans in the temporarystoragecontaineroutsidethebar,whichtheEngineeringSupervisoror Plant Operator is responsible for emptying.

Bagscontainingaluminiumcansaretobetakentothewastehandlingfacilitywherethecontentswillberemovedandplacedinbales,compactedandpackedinto theshippingcontainerdesignatedforrecyclablesforreturntoNewZealand.LabelbalesALUMINIUMCANS.

7.5 Other metal productsMetalproductsincludeallwastesteel,aluminium,tin,wire,emptyaerosolcans,emptyfueldrumsandothermetalitemsgeneratedatScottBaseandinthefield.UseablemetalistoberetainedatScottBaseforbuildingorotherconstructionprojectsasappropriate.

All metal waste is to be placed in the large steel bin outside the garage for return to New Zealand.Large,bulkyitemsmaybepalletisedseparatelyandlabelledSCRAPMETALFORRECYCLING.

Note: Do not attempt to crush or compact whole empty aerosol cans. Aerosol cans can be disposed of in the aerosol bin in the linkway outside the dining room.

Fuel drums no longer suitable for containing fuel are to be reused to transport waste for return to New Zealand where it is practicable and safe to do so. Any excess drums for return to New Zealand, not suitable for use as waste containers, are to be flattened prior to transport.

7.6 CardboardCardboard for recycling includes all corrugated cardboard boxes and other items. Triwalls (also knownasCubers) are not recyclableandare not tobeincluded.Corrugatedcardboardistobereusedforpackingwhereverpossible.Surplus cardboard is to be taken to the waste handling facility, where the Plant OperatorinthesummerorBaseEngineerwillcompactthecardboardintobales.When full, the bale is loaded into the recyclables shipping container.

15WASTE MANAGEMENT

7.7 PaperPaperforrecyclingincludesofficepaper,cardboard,envelopes,newsprintandmagazines.One sided office paper (which can be re-used for note pads orscrap paper) should be placed in the appropriate green boxes in the Hatherton Lab,theEngineeringareaandintheAdministrationoffice.

The Domestics should periodically box up outdated newspapers and magazines for return to New Zealand.

Full bags and boxes of paper should be clearly labelled and taken to the waste handling facility where the Base Engineer or Plant Operator will compact the paper into bales.Whencompletethebaleisloadedintotherecyclablesshippingcontainer.Balesshouldbeappropriatelylabelled,e.g.PAPERFORRECYCLING.

7.8 Plastics Plasticsforrecyclingareplastics1–6,includingplasticcourierbags,but excluding plastic banding, plastic/pallet wrap and polystyrene (ExpandedPolystyreneEPS).

Plastics should be taken to the recycling stations and disposed of in plastic containers.

The Domestics will collect the full bags from the recycling stations and take them to the large steelbinoutsidethebar.Alllidsmustberemovedanddisposedofingeneralwaste.ThePlant Operator will collect the plastics from the steel bin and take them to the waste handling facilityforcompactingandstorageintherecyclablesshippingcontainer.BalesshouldbelabelledPLASTIC.

Note:Plasticsshouldberemovedfromouterbagsat timeofbaling.Largeplastic items(biggerthana20Lpail)shouldnotbeplacedinthebales.

Plastic banding/ strapping and pallet wrap are non-recyclable and should be returned in the general waste bales.

Polystyrene should be kept separate, compacted and loaded into bales labelled POLYSTYRENE.

7.9 Other recyclablesA wide range of materials and equipment can be recycled on return to Christchurch.ExamplesofrecyclablesinChristchurchincludebuildingmaterials,computers,packaging,textiles and wood products.

Surpluscomputers, instrumentsor communicationsequipment for return toNewZealandmaycontaininternalbatteriesorradioactivecomponents.LiaisewiththeTechnicalSupportor Cargo Handler for the correct packing procedures for these items.

16 WASTE MANAGEMENT

8. Hazardous WasteHazardous wastes includes all fuel and oil products, oil spill wastes (e.g. soil, waterand absorbents), antifreeze, coolant, contaminated water, batteries, asbestos, aerosols, explosives,allpaintproducts,compressedgascylinders,detergents,disinfectantandglue,mercury,radioactivewastesandlaboratorychemicals.Breakableitemsarealsocoveredin this section.

Biohazardouswastes include humanwaste from the field, sanitary andmedical waste.Sharpsandbreakablesarealsoconsideredhazardous(Section9).

All hazardous waste is to be handled and disposed of in accordance with the procedures in the following two sections.

8.1 General proceduresAllhazardouswastegeneratedatScottBaseand in thefield, is tobe returned toNewZealandforappropriateandsafedisposal.TheCargoHandlerisresponsibleforoverseeingthe storage, packing, weighing, labelling, documentation and shipment of all hazardous waste at Scott Base. However, event personnel should be closely involved in correctlyidentifying any hazardous waste they generate.

All hazardous waste is to be returned to New Zealand by ship. All cubers and drums to be used for packing hazardous waste must be in good condition. Hazardous substances with non-compatiblehazardousclasses shouldneverbemixed together in thesamecuberordrum, and in some cases not on the same aircraft or in the same shipping container. Always refer to the appropriate aircraft and shipping instructions.

Removeall old labels fromhazardouswaste containers (i.e. totally removemarkingsorpaintover).Oldlabelsandmarkingsarenottobejustcrossedout.

Important: The packing and transport of hazardous waste is a specialist area. Refer to the Cargo Handler at Scott Base or the Logistics team inChristchurchandspecificshippingdocumentationforpackingrequirements.

In particular refer to the following documents as appropriate:

Air Transport

• PreparingHazardousMaterialsforMilitaryAirShipmentsandtheIATAManual

Sea Transport

• TheInternationalMaritimeDangerousGoodsCodeforShipmentbySea(IMDGS)

AllhazardouscargoforreturntoNewZealandmustbeidentified,packed(unsealed)andmadereadyfortheUnitedStatesHazardousTeaminspectionandcertification.Ashipper’sdeclaration for dangerous goods form must be raised for all hazardous items transported byairandsea.Inaddition,MaterialSafetyDataSheets(MSDS)forallhazardouswasteintendedforreturntoNewZealandmustbeincludedwithalldocumentation.AsetofMSDSisavailableatScottBasefromtheEngineeringSupervisorand/oronSharePoint.

17WASTE MANAGEMENT

Foradviceandoperationof theseprocedures theCargoHandler is tomaintainacloseliaisonwiththeUSAPHazardousDepartmentlocatedatMcMurdoStation.

Note: Only authorised personnel are able to certify the dangerous goods form. This person willusuallybetheScottBaseCargoHandlerorfromUSAP.ItisthereforeessentialthatthehazardousteamatMcMurdoiscontactedBEFORE attempting to ship any hazardous waste items.

Refer to theCargoHandler’sdeskfile for specificproceduresandcontactsatMcMurdoStation. It is essential that introductions are made with US personnel during the winter to summerhandoverperiod.

Disposal in Christchurch

AllhazardouswastegeneratedbyeventsreceivedinChristchurchistobeforwardedbytheLogisticsTeamtotheEventLeaderortheirparentorganisationforcorrectdisposalinNewZealand unless otherwise directed.

All other hazardous waste is to be disposed of in Christchurch or another location as appropriate.TheLogisticsManagershouldcontacttheappropriatecompaniesorauthoritiesto arrange for correct disposal of hazardous waste.

8.2 Oil productsOil products include waste AN8, mogas, kerosene, engine oil, lubricants, or water containing oil products, waste oily rags and used oil filters.

Waste oil products are to be collected in appropriately labelled drums stored in the bunded ISO20shippingcontaineroutsidethegarage.Ataminimum,theyshouldbeseparatedinto:

• Wasteoil(Dieselandpetrolengineoiltobeseparatedandlabelled)• AN8 • Mogas• Kerosene • Thinners • Coolant

Other categories may also be necessary, and different types of substances should under no circumstances be mixed together. Drums should never be filled right to the top, astemperature changesmay cause expansion of liquids - leave100mmullage. For returnto New Zealand they should be strapped together on a pallet and placed in a shipping container (this is considered secondary containment and no over packing of drums isrequired).TheEngineeringSupervisorisresponsibleforoverseeingthecollectionofwasteoil products.

Oilyragsaretobeplacedinanoverpackdrum,locatedinthegarage.DrumsofoilyragsaretobelabelledWASTEOILYRAGSFORDISPOSALforreturntoNewZealand.

18 WASTE MANAGEMENT

Usedoilfiltersaretobeplacedinanoverpackdrum,locatedinthecontaineroutsidethegarage.DrumsofoilfiltersaretobelabelledWASTEFILTERSFORDISPOSAL.

Soilandwatercontaminatedwithoilproductsis tobereturnedtoNewZealandinoverpack drums, clearly labelled.

Important:ItisessentialthattheAntarcticaNewZealandLogisticsCargoOfficerisadvisedofanyfuelcontaminatedsoilorwaterforreturnBEFOREtransport toNewZealand,toallowappropriateMPIimportpermits tobeacquired.

8.3 AntifreezeAll waste antifreeze is to be returned toNew Zealand in labelled drums. Label drumsWASTEANTIFREEZE/COOLANT.

8.4 BatteriesAll waste batteries are to be returned to New Zealand. Batteries must beseparated into three categories for correct packing and transport: lead acid, lithium,andotherdrycellbatteries.LabelledbinsforthesethreetypesofbatteriesarefoundinthevestibuletothepowerhouseneartheTelecomTechniciansroom(askTelecomTechniciansfordirections).

Dry cell batteries

Dry cell batteries are collected in the recycling unit located in the Telecom Technicians room. With the exception of lithium batteries, all other battery types can be mixed for transport. Tapetheterminalsofalllithiumbatteriesbeforepackingandtransport.Batteriesaretobepackedintoaspecialpurposeplasticbatterydispatchbox.LabelDRYCELLBATTERIES.

Lead acid batteries

Lead acid batteries are used in vehicles at Scott Base and contain sulphuric acid. ThebatteriesarerecycledinNewZealand.BatteriesaretobetakentotheCargoHandlerforcorrect packaging and shipment. The following procedures are to be used when handling and transporting spent lead acid batteries:

• Batteriesaretobekeptuprightatalltimes• Batteries are to be placed in a special purpose plastic battery dispatch box (seeMechanic)fortransporttoNewZealandbyship

• LabelWASTELEADACIDBATTERIES

8.5 AsbestosAll waste asbestos is to be returned to New Zealand for correct disposal. When working with asbestos, all staff must follow the procedures laid out in the Antarctica New Zealand AsbestosSOPHS-002.

Allasbestoswasteistobedouble-baggedinheavydutyplasticbagsandclearlymarkedasasbestos. Any asbestos waste which is too large for bagging is to be carefully wrapped in plasticsheetingandsealed.LabelWASTEASBESTOS.

19WASTE MANAGEMENT

TheLogisticsManagerinChristchurchshouldbecontactedbeforeanyasbestosisshipped.

8.6 AerosolsDamagedorpartlyusedaerosolsaretobereturnedtoNewZealandfordisposal.LabelWASTEAEROSOLS.

FollowtheproceduresoutlinedinSection9.1forspecificpacking,labellingandshippingrequirements.

8.7 ExplosivesSurplusexplosivesareNOTtobereturnedtoNewZealandunlesstheyareaccompanyinganeventandarereturnedinthesameyearoftransporttotheAntarctic.Surplusexplosivesshould be destroyed in a suitable location by trained staff only. Consult the Programme SupportSupervisorbeforehandlinganyexplosivesatScottBase.

8.8 Paint productsPaint products include all paint, thinners, paint stripper and solvents used for cleaning.ConsulttheLogisticsManagerinChristchurchbeforereturninganyunwantedpaintproductto New Zealand.

Leaveallpaintproducts in theiroriginal tinsorcans. LabelWASTEPAINT,THINNERorSTRIPPERasappropriate.

Emptypaintproducttinsaretobelefttodry,flattenedandtreatedasforothermetalwaste(refertoSection7.5).

Used turps and solvents that can no longer be reused are to be stored in the labelledplasticcontainersinthepaintstorageDangerousGoods(DG)cabinetsintheCarpentersworkshop. Contaminated water from clean-up should also be collected here. Once full, the container should be taken to the shipping container outside the garage, and poured into the drumdesignatedforsolvents.

8.9 Detergents, disinfectants and glueDetergents,disinfectantsandgluesmayberequiredtobereturnedtoNewZealand.ConsulttheLogisticsManagerbeforereturninganydetergent,disinfectantorglueproducttoNewZealand.

Leave all detergents, disinfectants and glue in their original bottles or containers. LabelWASTEDETERGENTDISINFECTANTorGLUE.


Emptyplasticbottlesorcontainersaretobewashedandtreatedasforotherplasticwaste(referSection7.8).Emptymetalgluetinsshouldbelefttodry,flattenedandtreatedassmallmetal waste.

20 WASTE MANAGEMENT

8.10 Compressed gas cylindersAll used compressed gas cylinders are to be returned to New Zealand. Some cylinders are requiredtobeventedbeforetransport.AntarcticaNewZealandcurrentlyusesthefollowingcylindertypesatScottBaseandinthefield:

• Oxygen • Helium • Acetylene • Carbon dioxide • Nitrogen • Calibration gases • Refrigerants • LPGandpropane• Argon

Neveruseoilorgreaseonthethreadsofregulatorsusedonanycompressedgascylinder.AllcylindersbeingreturnedtoNewZealandmusthavetheirscrew-oncapssecurelyfastened.


EmptyanypowderintoadrumandmarkasWASTEFIREEXTINGUISHERPOWDER.(WastepowderistobereturnedtoNewZealandfortrainingpurposes).Emptyextinguishersareto be returned to New Zealand for hydrostat testing and/ or disposal by an appropriate contractor.

Note: CO2 extinguishers are to be returned to New Zealand for servicing includinghydrostat testing.

8.11 MercuryMercurywillmostcommonlybefoundinthermometersandishighlytoxic.

NB: All waste mercury items are to be returned to New Zealand aboard the ship at the end of season. Under no circumstances is waste mercury to be transported aboard aircraft.

Waste thermometers must not be broken, but are to be returned to New Zealand complete. LabelWASTEMERCURY.

Follow theproceduresoutlined inSection5 for specificpacking, labellingandshippingrequirements.

8.12 Radioactive wasteScienceresearchactivitiesarethesolegeneratorofradioactivewasteintheNewZealandprogramme.AllradioactivewastemustbereturnedtoNewZealandfordisposal.

Allsciencepersonnelaretoensurethat,ifpossible,anyradioactivewasteisreturnedtoNew Zealand packaged in the same manner as it was transported from New Zealand.

21WASTE MANAGEMENT

8.13 VermiculiteVermiculite consists of flakes of silica and is used as a packaging material for hazardous substances.TheuseofvermiculiteinpackagingsenttoAntarcticaisdiscouragedwhereveralternativesexist.Anywastevermiculite shouldbeusedwherepossible for repackaginghazardous chemicals or waste for return to New Zealand. If it cannot be reused, it is to be returnedtoNewZealandinalinedtriwallmarkedWASTEVERMICULITE.

8.14 Other chemicalsAll waste chemicals are to be returned to New Zealand. No hazardous chemicals are to be disposedofdownsinksatScottBaseincludinginthewetlab,HFCandtheHathertonLab.TheminimumquantitiesofchemicalsaretobekeptatScottBase.EventpersonnelarenottoleaveanychemicalsatScottBaseatthecompletionoftheirevent(unlessparticipatinginmulti-yearfundedprojectsorbypriorarrangement).

In general, all unused chemicals are to be returned to New Zealand in their original containers(e.g.glassorplasticbottles).Lidsmustbesecurelyfastenedandsealedusingplasticpackingtape.Heavydutygloves,protectiveclothingandeyeprotectionaretobeworn when handling chemical containers.

8.15 BreakablesBreakablesincludeallnon-recyclableglass(e.g.toughenedandreinforced)andanyotheritems which may break into sharp pieces in transit. These items should be taken to the Cargo Handler forpackaging intoanoverpackeddrumand labelled for contents (e.g.NONRECYCLABLEGLASSFORDISPOSAL).

Important: Fluorescent tubes and lamps are not to be broken and are to be placed in their original boxes. Tubes and lamps should be packed together inaseparateboxlabelledWASTEFLUORESCENTTUBES.FluorescenttubesshouldberecycledbyInterwasteLimitedontheirreturntoNewZealand.

22 WASTE MANAGEMENT

9. Biohazardous wasteBiohazardouswasteincludesallfoodandfoodcontaminatedwaste,sanitary,medicalandhuman field waste. All such waste is to be handled and disposed of in accordance with the following procedures.

9.1 General proceduresAllbiohazardouswastegeneratedatScottBaseandinthefield,istobereturnedtoNewZealandforappropriateandsafedisposal.TheEngineeringSupervisorisresponsiblefordesignating a shipping container (and/or other storage areas) for biohazardous wasteandensuringthatsuchwasteiscollectedfromaroundtheBaseandtakentoit.ThePlantOperator is responsible foroverseeing thestorage,packing, labelling,documentingandshipmentofallbiohazardouswasteatScottBase.Duetothehealthandsafetyrisksforstaffhandling this waste, it is critical all personnel, whether on base or in the field, collect and package their waste appropriately.

Biohazardous waste packing and labelling

All biohazardous waste is to be returned to New Zealand by ship in clearly labelled, sealedreceptacles.Asfaraspossible,allwasterequiringspecialistdisposalonarrivalinChristchurch should be packed together in a designated shipping containers.

9.2 Food wasteFood waste includes all food scraps as well as liquids which cannot berinsed down drains, such as fluid from poultry products. Packaging and other compressibleitemsshouldberemovedforcompaction.

Food waste is to be collected in the kitchen in bins lined with two blue bags. The Domestics and the Chefs are to place full bags in the appropriately labelled bin or box on the kitchen landing. The Plant Operator weighs the full bin/ box, records the weight and loads it directly into the shipping container designated for food contaminated waste.

Food waste in the field

Inthefield,anyfoodwastegeneratedshouldbecollectedindoublebluebags.Generallystraight food scraps are kept to a minimum in the field, so unless the scale of the field party is such that separation is practicable, these can be mixed with the compactable items.

9.3 Food contaminated wasteFood contaminated waste includes all materials which may contain food, such as packagingandserviettes.Theseareseparatedbecausetheyarecompactable,unlikestraightfoodscrapswiththeirveryhighmoisturecontent.

Food contaminated waste is to be collected in labelled, blue bag lined bins in the mess and the engineering offices, and from the recycling stations. Occupants of sleeping rooms and

23WASTE MANAGEMENT

other work areas are responsible for taking any food contaminated waste to appropriate containers elsewhere on base.

The Domestics are to take full food contaminated waste bags to the bins below the kitchen landing. The Plant Operator is responsible for seeing that the bins are taken and the waste compacted.CompletedbalesaretobelabelledFOODCONTAMINATEDWASTE,weighedand loaded into the designated shipping container.

Food contaminated waste in the field

In the field, any food contaminated waste generated should be collected in double blue bags.Generally straight food scraps are kept to aminimum in the field, so unless thescaleofthefieldeventissuchthatseparationispracticable,thesecanbemixedwiththecompactable items.

9.4 Medical waste• Medicalwasteincludesanyusedmedicalmaterialsandanymedicalsharps• SafedisposalofmedicalwasteistheresponsibilityoftheFirstAidOfficeratScottBase

Used materials

All non-sharp used medical materials such as dressings, tongue compressors and swabs should be placed directly into the yellow biohazard bag in the first aid room. When full, the bag should be taken directly to the waste handling facility and placed into the labelled, plasticlinedboxforthispurpose.Oncefull,theboxistobestrapped,labelledMEDICALWASTEandstackeddirectlyintheshippingcontainerdesignatedforbiohazardouswaste.

Medical sharps

All medical sharps such as used syringes, needles, and blades should be placed directly into the sharps container supplied in the first aid room. Full containers should be packaged into a box labelled SHARPSCONTAINERSandreturnedviathecargosystemdirectlybacktotheLogisticsManager.

9.5 Expired medical suppliesAllexpiredmedicalsuppliesshouldbelogged,packagedsecurely,labelledTIMEEXPIREDMEDICALSUPPLIESandpassedtotheCargoHandlerforreturntoNewZealandAttention:LogisticsManager.

9.6 Sanitary wasteSanitary waste includes all used sanitary pads, tampons and condoms. Pads and tampons shouldbeplaceddirectly into themarkedbins in thewomen’stoiletcubiclesatScottBase(thedisbins)orputintobagsinthefieldforreturntoScottBase.Condomsshouldbedisposedofindisbinsinthewomen’sormen’sablutions, NOT in general rubbish bags and NOT down the toilet.

24 WASTE MANAGEMENT

It is theresponsibilityof theDomestics toremovethedisbinsandplace themintoyellowbiohazardbagswhicharetobetakentothehumanwastecontaineradjacenttotheHFCforshippingbacktoNewZealand.AlternativelygivetheyellowbiohazardbagstotheWaterEngineertodisposeofwiththeirwaste.

9.7 Laboratory biological wasteEventsusingthewetlabmaygeneratewastecontaminatedwithplantoranimalproductsorsoil.TheTechnicalSupportandBaseEngineer,intheirroutinesewageplantandwatersupplyqualitychecks,willgenerateslidesandpetriedisheswithbacterialcoloniesonthem.None of this waste should be placed in the general waste bags. A bin lined with a yellow biohazardbagisprovidedinthewetlabforthispurpose.Fullbagsshouldbetakentothewaste handling facility and placed in the marked box.

9.8 Human field wasteHuman field waste includes urine, faeces and associated items generated away from Scott Base.Ingeneral,thesearetobecollectedinliddedbucketsorcontainersandreturnedtoScottBase.UrineandgreywatershouldbedeliveredtoFieldSupportforintroductiontothe waste water plant. Solids will be returned to New Zealand for appropriate disposal in Christchurch.

Field Support personnel are responsible for ensuring that field parties are issued with the equipmenttheyrequireandthattheyareappropriatelylabelledandstoredonreturn.

Human waste not required to return to Scott Base

The only exceptions to collecting and returning human waste in the field are:

1. Forfieldeventsworkingonoradjacenttothesea,sievedgreywaterandhumanwaste may be discharged un-macerated directly to the sea or seashore below the high water mark.

2. Onicecoveredareas(e.g.seaice,iceshelf),greywaterandhumanwastemaybedischarged un-macerated to an ice pit or crack, but only when transport limitations preventremovalofsuchwastetoScottBase.Greywateristobestrainedbeforedisposaltoremovedsolids.

Human waste and grey water are NOT to be disposed of in any ice free area, melt water catchments or ice flows which terminate in ice free areas.

NB:Allwastedisposalmethodsneed tobeconsideredwithin theEnvironmental ImpactAssessment.

Return of human waste to Scott Base

Solidhumanwasteistobecollectedin20Lcliptopcontainers,andurineandgreywaterin25Lscrew-topcontainers.(Thecliptopcontainersarenotsecureforliquids).DoNOTfill thescrew topcontainersbeyond threequarters fullwith liquids,as freezingresults inconsiderable expansion.

25WASTE MANAGEMENT

AllbucketscontaininghumanwastemustbeclearlylabelledandstoredatScottBaseintherefrigeratedshippingcontainerprovidedforreturntoNewZealand.Wastehandlingistobe carried out as per the Harzardous Control Plan.

Important:Anypersonnelworkingaway fromScottBaseor theirmaincamp(andtoiletfacilities)aretocarrytheappropriatecontainerstocollectany human waste generated during the trip.

FemaleurinarydirectorscanbeobtainedfromtheclothingstoreinChristchurch,andsievesforgreywaterandbottlesforcollectingurineareavailablefromFieldSupportatScottBase.

9.9 Scott Base domestic liquid wasteDomesticliquidwasteincludesgreywater(domesticwastewater)andhumanwasteintheScottBasesewagesystem.

Grey water

Greywater(domesticwastewater)istobecombinedwithhumanwastefromScottBase,treated in the waste water treatment plant before discharge into the sea at Pram Point.

Important: Due to the risk of introducing diseases to wildlife, no poultry productsaretobedisposedofintotheAntarcticenvironment.Careshouldbe taken during food preparation (including thawing and draining) topreventanypoultrywaste (includingegg,fluid,boneorskin) frombeingwasheddownthesinkintheScottBasekitchen.Allpoultrywasteistobeput into the food waste stream.

Human waste (sewage)

Allhumanwaste(solidandliquid)istobecombinedwithdomesticgreywater,treatedanddischarged into the sea at Pram Point.

9.10 Cape Bird domestic liquid wasteGrey water

Greywateristobesievedanddischargeddirectlyintotheseabelowthehighwatermark.For procedures for human waste in the field, see Section 9.8.

26 WASTE MANAGEMENT

AppendicesAppendix 1: Summary of waste handling and disposal

General WasteTypes Collection Handling Storage and Transport

Compactible items – Non-recyclable

paper and card– Fabric–Miscellaneous

non-recyclable, non-hazardous

items

– Waste stations at communal areas aroundScottBase.

– Domestics:Emptythewaste stations and bins in communal areas, placing full bags in the large steel bins outside the kitchen or bar.

– All personnel:Emptytheir own bin to waste stations in communal areas.

Engineering Supervisor or Plant Operator on adivce from Engineering Supervisor:Ensuresthat general waste is taken from the large bins, compacted into bales, labelled, weighed, details recorded and loaded into the designated shipping container.

Largeitems – Scrap timber goes to the large bin on the garage landing

– Timber goes in the wool pack on the Carpenter’sshoplanding.Ifit’stoolargethengiveitto the Carpenter to cut up

Plant Operator: Will collect timber wool packs or take other large items for packing into shipping containers.

Plant Operator: Pack itemsonadvicefromEngineeringSupervisor.Engineering Supervisor:Ensuresthat general waste is labelled, weighed, details recorded and loaded into the designated shipping container.

Recyclables

Types Collection Handling Storage and Transport

Clean glass– Waste bottles–Brokenor

disused glassware

– Drum in kitchen – Wheelie bin in bar (removeallcorks,lids and caps)

– Plant Operator: Emptiesstoragecontainers and takes them to the waste handling facility.

Plant Operator: Managecollectionbins and cages at waste handling facility, weigh, and document and pack bins and bales for shipping.Engineering Supervisor: Ensuresthatgeneralwaste is taken from the landing, compacted into bales, labelled, weighed, details recorded and loaded into the designated shipping container.

Washed steel cans–Emptysteelfood

cans

–Bininsidethekitchen

– Chef: cleans can andremovestopand bottom. Places in steel bin outside kitchen.


27WASTE MANAGEMENT

Recyclables

Aluminium cans – Can crusher in bar – Plant Operator: Emptiescrusherandtakes to the container outside the bar.


Plant Operator: Managecollectionbins and cages at waste handling facility, weigh, document and pack bins and bales for shipping.Engineering Supervisor: EnsuresthatwasteistakenfromScottBase,compacted into bales in the waste handling facility, labelled, weighed, details recorded and loaded into the designated shipping container.

Metal– Waste steel– Tin– Wire–Emptyaerosol

cans

–Bininthemechanics workshop, engineering workshop and outside the garage


Cardboard – Neatly flattened into bundles then placed in collection bins in front of the kitchen or HFC

– Plant Operator Collects and compacts cardboard.

Mixedpaperandcard- Newsprint and

magazines- Office paper-Mixedcard

– Recycling stations aroundScottBase–Boxesinadmin

area

– Domestic: Packs old magazines and papers into boxes to send back to NZ.

– Domestic: Full bags and boxes of paper should be labelled and handed to the Plant Operator for packing in triwalls in the recyclables shipping container.

Cleanplastic(all) –Bottlesandcontainers: rinsed, lidsremoved,flattened and taken to appropriate recycling stations aroundScottBase

– Domestic: Takes full bags to large steel bins outside kitchen or bar where the Plant Operator will collect and take to the waste handling facility.

Polystyrene – All polystyrene is to be stored separately in the hangar

- Plant Operator: Package for return to New Zealand

28 WASTE MANAGEMENT

Hazardous Waste - Chemical

Types Collection Handling Storage and TransportOil products – Oil and fuel products (Mogas, Kerosene, Thinners) – Antifreeze – Coolants

–Mechanic:Overseessetupoflabelled drums in thebundedISO20shipping container outside the garage

Engineering Supervisor: Ensuresfulldrumsare clearly labelled, palletised and stored in turn-around container area.

Oily rags, oil filters, oil contaminated water or soil

–Labelleddrumsin garage

Plant Operator:Ensuredrum lids are secure and places in bunded shipping container, updates shipping records.

Dry cell batteries

–Binsinvetibulein powerhouse

Telecom Tech: Sorts and packages as per handbookandgivestoCargo Handler.

Placed in special purpose battery dispatch box in turn-around container area.

Leadacidbatteries Mechanic: Drains acid.

Asbestos;Aerosols;Explosives;Paintproducts;Detergents, disinfectants and glue;Compressedgascylinders;Mercury;Radioactivewaste; Vermiculite;Otherchemicals;Breakables

Refer to the detailed instructions in the Handbook and take to Cargo HandlerforReturntoNewZealand(RTNZ).

Hazardous Waste - Biohazardous


Food –Bluebaglinedbinin kitchen

Domestics and Chef: Put full bags into appropriate bin/ box on kitchen landing.

Plant Ops:Managecollection bins and cages at waste handling facility, weigh, document and pack bins and bales for shipping. Engineering Supervisor: Ensuresfullboxesarestored at turn-around container area until referisavailable.

29WASTE MANAGEMENT

Hazardous Waste - Biohazardous


Food contaminated –Bluebaglinedbinin mess

Domestics: Put full bags into large steel bin outside the kitchen.

Plant Operator: Managecollectionbins and cages at waste handling facility, weigh, document and pack bins and bales for shipping.Engineer: Takes full bin to handling facility, compacts waste into labelled bales and loads into shipping container with other wasterequiringsterilisation.

Sanitary waste – Disbins in ablutions

First Aid:Logandlabelexpired medicine and pass to the Cargo Handler.Domestic: places full yellow bio bags directly into human waste container,orgivetoWaterEngineer.

Plant Operator:Loadsfull bags into freezer container with other wasterequiringsterilisation.Biologicallab

waste–Yellowbiohazard

bags in wheelie bin in the wetlab

Human field waste – Field parties return to the HFC

Field Support:Emptypoo buckets into bins in the refrigerated shipping container and process urine barrels.

Plant Operator:Loadsfull bags into freezer container with other wasterequiringsterilisation.

Waste water treatment plant bi-products

Water Engineer: Bagsanddrumswaste, and stows on landing outside the waste water treatment plant

Plant Operator: Transport waste drums and bins, weigh, document and pack into freezer container.

Plant Operator:Loadsfull bags into freezer container with other wasterequiringsterilisation.

30 WASTE MANAGEMENT

Appendix 2: Antarctica New Zealand Purchasing GuidelinesThe following guidelines should be followed by the Antarctica New Zealand Accounts and Purchasing Coordinator and any other Antarctica New Zealand staff members purchasing itemstobesenttoAntarctica.TheguidelineshavebeendevelopedinorderforAntarcticaNewZealandtocomplywithitsobligationsundertheProtocolonEnvironmentalProtectiontotheAntarcticTreaty1991,domesticlawandtominimisetheimpactofwastemanagementactivitiesontheAntarcticenvironment.

Basic principle

AntarcticaNewZealand’sEnvironmentalPolicyStatementsetsoutthebasicprincipleunderwhich all purchasing should be conducted:

Antarctica New Zealand will aim to conduct its purchasing in a manner that contributes to minimising the volume and impact of waste produced including materials and supplies which are recyclable or reusable or can be disposed of with minimal environmental impact.

Prohibited products

The following products and materials are not to be purchased or used by Antarctica New Zealand if they are intended to be sent to Antarctica:

• Polychlorinatedbiphenyls(PCBs)• Non-sterilesoil(includingsoilonfooditems)• Polystyrene beads, chips or similar forms of packaging• Pesticides • Untreatedtimberforpacking(rickofmold)

Items to avoid if practicable

Whereapracticablealternativeexists,avoidpurchasingthefollowingitems:

• Polyvinylchlorideproducts(PVC)• Items incorporating CFC propellants • Non-biodegradable cleaning materials • Paints containing lead

Additional considerations

Thefollowingguidelinesrelategenerally topurchasingavarietyof itemsforuseatScottBaseandinthefield:

• OrderthemaximumsizepracticableforbulkfooditemsforuseatScottBase• Select food packaging of various sizes, where appropriate, to help minimise food

wastage • Minimiseasfaraspracticablethepurchaseofitemswithplastic,glassorbulkypackaging• Select, where possible, materials which are easy to segregate, reuse or recycle • Buydurableproductsinpreferencetodisposableones

31WASTE MANAGEMENT

• Always substitute items with less hazardous or less polluting material • Where available and practicable, purchase items made from recycled materialsExamplesofrecycledproductsavailableinNewZealandinclude:• Office supplies • Plastic products • Packaging material • Solvents

AbbreviationsAFT Antarctic Field Training

ASMA AntarcticSpeciallyManagedArea

ASPA Antarctic Specially Protected Area

CFO Chief Fire Officer

COMNAP CouncilofManagersofNationalAntarcticProgrammes

GIS GeographicInformationSystem

HFC Hillary Field Centre

HSE HealthSafetyandEnvironment

IC Incident Commander

ICS Incident Command System

LPG LiquidPetroleumGas

MPI MinistryforPrimaryIndustries

MSDS MaterialSafetyDataSheets

OM OperationsManager

PCC Plant Change Control

PPE PersonalProtectionEquipment

PSS ProgrammeSupportSupervisor

USAP United States Antarctic Programme

WWTP Waste Water Treatment Plant

32 WASTE MANAGEMENT

Antarctica New Zealand

Private Bag 4745

International Antarctic Centre

38 Orchard Road, Christchurch, New Zealand, 8053

Tel 64 3 358 0200 Fax 64 3 358 0211

www.antarcticanz.govt.nz

Documents

WASTE MANAGEMENT - Antarctica New Zealand · Antarctica New Zealand is committed to complying with the requirements of the Protocol. Current Antarctica New Zealand waste management