Stables

Many forms of contamination can find their way into stables and riding schools, and ensuring that no outbreak of pollution occurs is the responsibility of the owner. Water contamination can occur from the waste management and manure from horses and equine establishments. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Controlled Waste Regulations 1992, waste from breeding, boarding, stabling or exhibiting animals is defined as an industrial waste and has to be controlled. 

Stables are often located away from mains drainage systems and this can lead to pollutions risks from:

• oil storage (particularly heating oil)
• chemical storage (including sterilising agents, biocides, disinfectants and medicines
• foul drainage, including that from associated houses and offices.

By Products from Stables

Run-off from dirty yards, cleaning out stables and other factors can contribute to pollution risk. Some stables have exercise pools, which are treated with chemicals and sediments, which when drained, have to be monitored. Solid and liquid waste must be disposed of in the correct manner, which may require a discharge consent certificate under the Environmental Agency guidelines. If there is any contamination from the run-off, it needs to be directed to a special lagoon or a sealed effluent tank which then has to be removed for off site disposal.

Safe Disposal of Stables' Clinical Waste

Clinical waste in stables encompasses infected linen, bandaging, used syringes and medicine containers, all of which have to be carefully disposed of under the correct conditions. A waste management licence may be required and it is an offence to discharge effluent to controlled waters without consent.

Solutions

To find out what licences and legislation needs to be followed for the safe operation of stables, contact the Environmental Testing Company for expert and fast advice.