Article

Disposal of waste after using our adhesives, sealants, and pretreatment products

European framework and classification

Within the European Union, waste must be managed in accordance with the Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC). This obliges companies to process waste such that human health and the environment are protected. This includes, among other things, the proper identification, classification, and traceability of waste streams.
 
To achieve this, all waste must be classified in accordance with the European Waste Catalogue (EWC), established by Decision 2000/532/EG. Each type of waste is assigned a waste code that indicates its origin and composition, and whether it is hazardous. Waste codes marked with an asterisk (*) are considered hazardous waste.
 
For our adhesives and sealants, the relevant classification can usually be found in Chapter 08 of the EWC:
 
08 04 09* → waste from adhesives and sealants containing hazardous substances
08 04 10 → waste from adhesives and sealants that does not contain hazardous substances
 
In addition to product waste, empty packaging materials such as cartridges, plastic film bags or containers fall under Chapter 15:
 
15 01 01 → paper and cardboard packaging
15 01 02 → plastic packaging
15 01 04 → metal packaging
15 01 10* → packaging containing residues of hazardous substances
 

The practical role of hazard symbols

In practice, hazard symbols on the label of a SABA product provide an important initial indication for the proper disposal of the resulting waste. If a product bears hazard symbols, it contains substances that are classified as hazardous according to European chemical regulations. Waste originating from such products is therefore more likely to be classified as hazardous and is usually classified under waste code 08 04 09* or 15 01 10*. This type of waste requires stricter procedures, such as separate storage, clear labeling, and disposal using recognized hazardous waste collectors.
 

Processing of SABA product waste and packaging

Many SABA products have been specifically developed with a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and ease of use, however. As a result, most products do not bear hazard symbols, and in many cases, the waste can be classified as non-hazardous. This generally leads to classification under waste codes 08 04 10 for product waste and 15 01 02 or 15 01 04 for packaging, depending on the material. In this case, it can generally be disposed of as non-hazardous industrial waste and, depending on local regulations, via regular waste or recycling streams.
 
To avoid uncertainties during waste disposal, we always recommend that the waste regulations stated in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) of the relevant product be adhered to.