Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducts and regulates the destruction of chemical waste. It is essential to be cautious around chemicals as they are a threat to you and the environment if mishandled. You cannot just toss them in the trash and left them unattended. These chemicals should be disposed of properly and permanently.

Hazardous Waste Program

Dumping chemical waste through EHS Hazardous Waste Program is the most ideal approach to destroy this kind of waste. This way, you are not only protecting yourself but your environment as well. Therefore, if your laboratory has some chemicals that are no longer required and need to be disposed of, you should always go for the Hazardous Waste Program.

Check the Label

Before trashing it, make sure you check the label stating the nature of the substance it contains. Whether it is hazardous or extremely hazardous.  You can find this information at the back of the container.

Select an Appropriate Container

Choose a container that does not react with the chemicals placed inside. It should be free of any additional components that can affect, weaken, or reacts with the chemical. Make sure to consider the chemical compatibility. If there is none, you can use a plastic container as well.

1. Metal containers should not be used when disposing of acids or bases.
2. Hydrofluoric acid should not be kept in glass containers.
3. Lightweight polythene containers should not be utilized when disposing of solvents.

Make sure the containers you are using are tightly secured. They should not open or leak during transportation. Label the container to avoid any confusion.

Disposing of the Chemical Waste

Lab Trash

Place the chemical waste in a transparent bag that can be easily analyzed by EHS Hazardous Waste Program. Label the container with your department, room number, date of waste generation, PI’s name, and telephone number. Place a label that says ‘Hazardous Waste’ over the transparent bag or container you are using.

Dry Chemicals

The best way to dispose of unnecessary or unused dry chemicals is by returning them to the manufacturer. You should seal the container it came in, label it ‘hazardous waste,’ and dispose of them where they were manufactured.

Sharp Objects

Sharp objects, such as needles, drips, pipettes, or broken glass that are capable of piercing through the skin should be disposed of separately.  There are four kinds of sharp objects, including bio-hazardous, contaminating, non-contaminating, and radioactive materials. Each of these kinds of waste should be dumped in the appropriate containers – Environment, Health, and Safety Department.

Final Word

Chemical waste when comes in direct contact with the human body can be highly dangerous. Especially those chemicals that are just lying around. Therefore, it is essential to deal with them efficiently and dispose of them the first chance you get.