Chemical Waste Disposal Guidelines

Hazardous Waste Definition
If your waste exhibits one of the following characteristics, it is considered hazardous and should be disposed of through EH&S.

Flammable:
Examples include acetone, toluene, alcohol, ethyl ether, etc.
Acidic or Basic:
Examples include sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, potassium hydroxide, etc.
Reactive:
Examples include sodium metal, methyl-dichlorosilane, perchloric acid, etc.
Toxic:
Examples include chloroform, dyes, nitrobenzene, phenol, etc.

Requirements for Disposal

Provide a list of chemicals to EHS:
It is necessary to fill out a chemical waste pickup request form in order to have chemicals removed from your area.
Designated waste accumulation area:
An area must be designated and labeled for chemical waste accumulation near where the waste is generated.
Labeling:
Each container must be labeled using full chemical name with no abbreviations or chemical formulas using red labels supplied by EHS. Chemicals and chemical mixtures (commercial products, etc.) and must have individual ingredients listed.
Containers:
Must be compatible with chemicals stored within, must be leak proof, and must have secure lids tightly closed. Chemical waste containers must be stored in secondary containment; bins are supplied by EHS.
Scheduling pickup:
Email, fax or mail through intercampus mail a copy of your manifest to EH&S for pickup.
Disposal of Unknowns:
Typically, disposal of your chemicals will be at no cost to you. However, the testing required for safe handling and disposal of unknown chemicals can be very costly. Every effort should be made to identify chemicals for disposal. For instance, knowing that the chemical is an organic solvent can help our hazardous waste vendor make that identification. If the vendor needs to provide further testing those costs will be the responsibility of the lab generating the waste.