Chemical Waste

Definition: Non-radioactive chemicals and or solid waste contaminated with hazardous chemicals. If you have any questions, please contact EH&S East at 7-7172.

Examples of Chemical Waste include:

  • waste and expired chemicals
  • broken thermometers and any items containing mercury
  • non-returnable gas cylinders and lecture bottles (18 inch max)
  • materials used for clean-up of chemical spills
  • used oil of any type
  • photographic film processing solutions
  • lead shielding and lead scrap (No radioactive contamination)

General Instructions

  • Completing the GU Hazardous Waste Label, and identify all hazardous components by chemical name (not by acronym or brand name).
  • Separate aqueous waste from organics
  • Separate halogenated organics from non-halogenated organics
  • Do not allow excessive chemical waste to accumulate in the work area. Ensure waste is submitted for pickup within 60 days of starting accumulation.
  • Submit waste pickup requests through the Chem Bio Portal.

If Discarding Chemical In:

Then:

Original Container
  • Print “Hazardous Waste” and then discard date on the container
  • If original label is absent, loose or illegible, complete and attach a GU Hazardous Waste Label

Container other than original
  • Deface the container’s original label or identification
  • Complete and affix GU “Hazardous Waste” chemical waste label

Bulk Chemicals
  • Complete GU “Hazardous Waste” chemical waste label and affix to container
  • Only place compatible chemicals in a single containers
  • Never place heavy metal compounds, oxidizers, phenols, strong acids or bases in noncompatible container
  • Fill only to the “fill line”
  • Store away from ignition and/or heat sources
  • Five gallon flammable chemical containers must be stored in a flammable storage cabinet

Chemically Contaminated Solid Waste
  • Place materials in a clear plastic bag or appropriate container
  • Close the container/bag and place in a chemical fume hood or secondary container (such as cardboard box)
  • Complete and attach GU “Hazardous Waste” chemical waste label
  • Contact EH&S for pick-up or when you have questions