Hazardous wastes are primarily generated in the normal course of operation of industries, businesses, medical institutions, farms or other operations. These wastes include a broad range of materials such as: waste solvents, waste paint, waste lead acid batteries, waste pesticides, used motor oil, biomedical waste, etc.

Hazardous wastes present a greater danger to human health and the environment than other waste material as a result of their specific chemical, physical and biological properties. To reduce adverse effects to human health and the environment, it is essential that hazardous waste is handled, stored, transported, treated and disposed of properly.

The Hazardous Waste Program administers the regulations pursuant to The Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act. The hazardous waste legislation establishes a system of controlling hazardous waste from 'cradle to grave' (i.e. from the point at which it is generated to the point at which it is converted into a non-hazardous substance, recycled or otherwise disposed of safely).