You don’t need us to tell you of the importance of appropriate safety measures in a laboratory, and when dealing with chemicals that are harmful to both your own health and the wider environment, they need to be treated and disposed of in the appropriate manner. Show
In this article, we’ll explore the correct way to dispose of chemicals, the different categories of hazardous waste, identifying and reducing potential fire hazards, and the importance of risk assessment. Quick Navigation
Categories of hazardous wasteThere are many different types of hazardous waste. Some categories have their own subcategories of waste, while other types might fall into certain hazardous waste categories because they display specific characteristics (such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, toxicity). Additionally, some chemical products can be hazardous after they’ve been disposed of. Listed WastesThese can be identified in a series of different lists.
Wastes created as a result of common manufacturing and industrial processes, known as ‘non-specific source waste’ due to their production in multiple industries.
Wastes created from specific industries such as petroleum refining or pesticide manufacturing, also known as ‘source-specific wastes’.
Wastes created by commercial chemical products being discarded in their unused form which become hazardous when thrown away. Characterised WasteThese comprise waste materials which meet one or more of the characteristics of hazardous waste.
Can the waste create fire in certain conditions, is it spontaneously combustible, or have a flash point less than 60°C?
Can it corrode metallic containers? If the pH level is 2 and under or 12.5 and above, then it should be considered hazardous.
Unstable materials that can cause explosions, toxic fumes, gases or vapours when heated, compressed or mixed with water.
When certain materials are disposed of, the toxicity can be absorbed into the ground, contaminating water as a result. Universal WasteWaste caused by household items, such as batteries, lamps and equipment containing mercury. Mixed WasteWaste that contains both radioactive and hazardous components, generated by medical, pharmaceutical, nuclear and other energy industries. Methods of DisposalThe improper disposal of chemicals is forbidden by law, so it’s important to adhere to correct procedures as strictly as possible. It may be a case that you need to wash chemicals down the drain with plenty of water. This can apply to the following:
Any material appearing on the Red List should, under no circumstances, be washed down a drain. The following materials should be disposed of via incineration:
Controlled waste – waste that’s suitable for refuse collection from the local authority – can, for the most part, be placed in your everyday waste bin. However, your lab must also have a container for certain other items, such as broken glassware, sharp objects and dirty samples or other items contaminated with chemicals. Hazardous waste regulationsEnsure you understand the properties of hazardous waste. If you are involved in producing, transporting or receiving hazardous waste then you are responsible for it as outlined by Hazardous Waste Regulations. Potential Fire HazardsIn a lab environment, potential fire hazards can be numerous, so it’s important to treat and handle combustibles in the appropriate manner. Consider limiting superfluous materials in the lab, and where you can, keep these materials from heat sources and store them at least 18 inches below the ceiling. Ensure these items are appropriately labelled and stored in the correct cabinets. Do not allow them to be kept on benches or on incorrect shelving, and when pouring such liquids with a low flash point from a large container, ground the container to minimise the development of static charge. Risk AssessmentWhen using chemicals at work, you are required by law to control their usage by assessing the risks, therefore implementing and maintaining effective control measures. These measures must be specified in writing and fully implemented to prevent accidents in the workplace. Consider when spills or splashes are likely to occur, when substances might be inhaled, swallowed or absorbed by the skin, and how likely is the potential occurrence of exposure. Staying safe in a laboratory is of the utmost importance to us. Looking to optimise your environment? For more information about our bespoke fitted labs, visit our homepage or call our team on 01223 894 833. Are most chemicals used in experiments can be discarded into the sink?It cannot be disposed of in regular trash or in the sewer system. Most chemical wastes must be disposed of through the EHS Hazardous Waste Program.
What substances can be discarded of in the sink quizlet?Sinks are to be used only for water and those solutions designated by the instructor. Solid chemicals, metals, matches, filter paper, and all other insoluble materials are to be disposed of in the proper waste containers, not in the sink.
Where should you dispose of excess solid chemicals you remove from a stock bottle in lab?Clean the spatula before using it for a different chemical to avoid cross contamination. Any extra solid taken out of the bottle must be disposed of as hazardous waste. Any scattered solid on or around the balance should be swept up and disposed of as hazardous waste.
How would you dispose of substances used in the lab quizlet?Do not pour chemical into the sink or put specimens in the regular trash. Only discard broken glass in the broken glass box. Either in biohazard, sharps, broken glass boxes, pathological waste, or liquid waste.
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