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How to Legally Dispose Hazardous Wastes

How to Legally Dispose Hazardous Wastes
Dr. Hazelwood stated that,"Dilution is not the Solution to Pollution”. Hence, disposal methods should always be treated with great caution. For instance, it is illegal to dump most chemical wastes into sewage systems or into common garbage sites. Furthermore, it is also a federal offense to dump or burn solvents, varnishes and paints into the backyard.

However, it is legal to allow very small amounts of solvents to evaporate. It is also legal, for large generators to recycle huge amounts of wastes.

The materials that are commonly used by many conservators can be grouped into 5 chemical classes, they are, detergents, acids and alkalies, solvents, bleaches and ethyl ether. These classes must never be mixed together, for they are incompatible and hence are a safety hazard.

Firstly, Solvents should be collected in glass vessels for glass is inert and will not rust through if water is mixed in with the waste. Dumping water soluble solvents down the drain is not acceptable. On the other hand, ether should not be used longer than three months after it is opened. Whereas, Acids and Alkalies may be disposed of in the sewer system under certain conditions.

Disposal of dry waste is difficult to discuss. However, the general rule that stands here is that dry materials should be kept in that very state. In other words, they should not be mixed in with liquid wastes for disposal.

If your job involves the handling of such hazardous substances, then Hazwoper training courses are a must. Their aim is to prioritize the understanding and awareness of safety.

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