Pollution Prevention in Metal Finishing Shops
How can Metal Finishers reduce waste, become more efficient, and move toward sustainability?
Most metal plating, anodizing, and printed circuit board shops generate hazardous waste. Some of those wastes are dangerous and harmful to the environment if not handled properly. DTSC has compiled ways to reduce waste, and potentially reduce waste management costs. Business owners may also reduce toxic emissions from their operations.
Why Pollution Prevention?
The advantages are many. Free pollution prevention guidance is available here. Metal finishing shops will learn smart techniques to:
- Reduce waste and emissions
- Improve worker health and safety
- Increase production rates
- Save on operating costs
- Protect human health and the environment now and in the future
Companies that practice pollution prevention show their commitment to keeping their work place safe and their community healthy. They gain a competitive edge over other businesses that provide similar products and services.
How to get started
- Review and assess your practices using the guidance, worksheets, and checklists, in the Hazardous Waste Minimization Checklist and Assessment Manual, or the Pollution Prevention Opportunities Checklist; and identify processes where source reduction may be possible.
- Plan for and make changes and improvements. For help, review the information and videos on the Training Materials page. These materials show practical ways to implement pollution prevention measures at your business. DTSC staff conducted assessments at California metal finishers and documented some of their successes and challenges to implementing best management practices and hazardous waste source reduction. Read the Industry Assessment Report to learn more.
- Use the Evaluation Checklist to track your changes and evaluate your progress.