Waste materials

In any manufacturing environment, there is a considerable amount of waste materials. This includes waste materials resulting from testing in laboratories.

Waste materials can not always be taken away from the premises, or destroyed immediately. The manufacturer should therefor make provision for proper and safe storage of waste material.

Some waste can contain toxic substances. Toxic substances and flammable materials should be stored in suitably designed, separate, enclosed cupboards. You should also assess whether these materials are stored in compliance with the legislation where you are inspecting.

It is important to make sure that waste materials are not allowed to accumulate. Waste materials should be removed at regular and frequent intervals. You can inspect the receptacles and assess the SOP for storage and disposal of waste to verify whether the manufacturer has policy regarding the removal and safe disposal of waste. Verify whether the manufacturer complies with its own policy and SOP. You should also make sure that the process of disposal is done safely and in a sanitary manner.

Miscellaneous

There are also several other miscellaneous materials used in the manufacturing site. These include rodenticides, insecticides, fumigating agents, and sanitizing materials. These materials are used for specific purposes and are often toxic or hazardous. Ensure that there is no possibility that these materials can contaminate equipment, starting materials, intermediate or bulk products when these materials are used or stored on the premises.