VI. Steps for Disposal of Hazardous Waste

All personnel handling hazardous chemicals on the Reed College campus must read and understand the Reed College Hazard Communication Program. This document explains the rights and responsibilities associated with working with hazardous materials.

A. Containers

1. Organic Solvent Waste

Combine organic solvent wastes in a common and properly labeled collection vessel, preferably a plastic 10-liter carboy (available from the Chemistry Stockroom). Accumulate all chemically compatible solvents, such as aliphatic, aromatic, and halogenated solvents, in the same container. Organic materials dissolved in water are not considered organic solvents. Water decreases the BTU value of flammable organic solvents and therefore reduces its usability as a fuel. Acids and bases are not allowed in the collection vessel.

2. Used Film Developing Fixer

Collect used film developing fixer in properly labeled plastic carboys. When full, bring the carboy to Chemistry 211. EHS will schedule a vendor to pick up the used fixer and recycle the silver.

3. Other Hazardous Chemical Waste

Place all other hazardous chemical waste in separate containers. Use the smallest chemically compatible container that matches the amount of hazardous chemical waste generated. The containers should be tightly capped and clearly labeled. For highly toxic materials, the caps should be covered with parafilm and/or the container should be placed in a sealed clear plastic bag for added protection.

B. Labeling

As indicated in the Reed College Hazard Communication Program, any vessel containing a hazardous material must be properly labeled. This requirement is especially important in dealing with hazardous waste. Unidentified material can be very difficult and expensive to dispose. Clearly label all hazardous wastes with the following information:

1. Chemical Name

The chemical name must be in English and must not be abbreviated. Never use trade names, acronyms, abbreviations, codes, or formulae, names such as “Sample 1, Run 2,” or names referring to page numbers in laboratory notebooks. Rather than using chemical formulas to identify wastes, name the compound in English, even if the name refers to the starting material in a reaction (i.e., “diethylmalonate derivative” or “aniline/diethylamine reaction mixture”).

2. Concentration

If the item is a mixture, include approximate concentrations for each component.

3. Hazards

Record the hazards associated with the chemical. These may include:

• Flammable
• Corrosive (base)
• Corrosive (acid)
• Reactive
• Oxidizer
• Mutagen
• Poison
• Biohazard
• Water reactive
• Radioactive

4. Generator Information

Record your name, phone number, the date, and your department.

C. Disposition of Waste

Once you have completed the labeling, bring the wastes to Chemistry Room 211. Box incompatible materials separately.

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