Chemical waste includes solids, liquids or gases containing or contaminated with any of the following:
- flammable solvents (e.g., acetone, alcohols, acetonitrile);
- leachate toxic materials (e.g., heavy metals, pesticides);
- corrosives (e.g., hydrochloric acid, potassium hydroxide pellets);
- reactives such as oxidizers, cyanides, sulphides, explosives, unstable materials and water-reactive materials (e.g., sodium metal, benzoyl peroxide);
- toxic materials including mutagenic, carcinogenic, acute or chronic toxicity materials (e.g., chloroform, ethidium bromide);
- polychlorinated biphenyls (> 50 ppm concentration);
- non-returnable gas cylinders.
- Chemical compatibility is CRITICAL to safe chemical waste handling. Use the Bucket List to ensure you are accurately segragating all chemical waste.
- If in doubt, remember “Any amount of Non-Hazardous waste + any amount of Hazardous waste” = HAZARDOUS waste
- Please make sure to always consult SDS sheets prior to handling any waste. Once you have segrated the waste make sure to consult the SOP below:
- Hazardous Chemicals Waste Disposal