Hazardous Waste Management

Proper hazardous waste management protects laboratory personnel, facilities, the environment, and our campus community. Everyone who works with chemicals is responsible for ensuring that waste is properly identified, labeled, stored, and disposed of according to University and regulatory requirements.

Before disposing of any chemical waste, ask:

  • What is the chemical?
  • What hazards does it present?
  • Is it compatible with other waste?
  • Is the container properly labeled?
  • Does it require hazardous waste pickup?

When in doubt, ask before disposing.

Before You Dispose of Chemical Waste

Identify the Waste

Chemical waste must be identified by its contents and hazards. Do not place unknown chemicals into waste containers.

Include:

  • Chemical name(s)
  • Approximate concentrations (if applicable)
  • Hazards
  • Date waste was generated

Label the Container

All hazardous waste containers must be labeled with:

  • The words "Hazardous Waste"
  • Complete chemical names 
  • Appropriate hazard information
  • Accumulation start date 

Never leave waste containers unlabeled.

Store Waste Properly

Hazardous waste containers should:

  • Remain closed except when adding waste
  • Be compatible with the waste material
  • Be stored in secondary containment when appropriate
  • Be kept in designated waste accumulation areas
  • Be inspected regularly for leaks or damage

Chemical Waste Pickup

To request hazardous waste pickup:

  1. Ensure the waste container is properly labeled.
  2. Confirm the container is closed and stored safely.
  3. Submit the appropriate waste pickup request.
  4. Contact the Safety Coordinator with questions or unusual waste streams.

Link to waste pickup request

What Does NOT Belong in the Trash or Drain?

Do not dispose of the following in regular trash or sinks unless specifically approved:

  • Hazardous chemicals
  • Unknown chemicals
  • Heavy metals
  • Reactive chemicals
  • Chemical-contaminated materials
  • Sharps or broken contaminated glass

Reduce Waste Before It Starts

Good chemical management reduces waste generation:

  • Purchase only the amount needed.
  • Share excess chemicals when appropriate.
  • Maintain accurate chemical inventories.
  • Use proper storage practices.
  • Plan experiments carefully.

Training Requirements

Anyone who generates hazardous chemical waste must complete required hazardous waste training before beginning work.

Training covers:

  • Waste identification
  • Labeling requirements
  • Storage expectations
  • Pickup procedures
  • Emergency response

Link to Hazardous Waste Training

Questions?

If you are unsure how to classify, label, store, or dispose of chemical waste, contact the Safety Coordinator or Environomental Health & Safety before proceeding.

If improper waste storage, unlabeled containers, or other waste-related hazards are identified, please report them through the Safety Concern Reporting Form so we can correct the issue and prevent recurrence.