(in a Nutshell)

Chemical waste is to be contained in a compatible container (see below) for removal by GT EHS. 

Generate a waste card and request a pick up via EHSA (ehsa@gatech.edu)

Containers that have been emptied by normal means (e.g. pouring) are considered “empty” and most are not considered hazardous (see highly hazardous, below). Remember that plumbing systems whether or not they are “chemically resistant” and whether or not they are equipped with “dilution tanks” are capable of handling only incidental quantities of waste – they are NOT designed for use as a primary disposal method.

Solvents and Organics
  • May not go down the drain - ever.
  • Shall be containerized with compatible materials.  Usually this is halogenated or non-halogenated solvents.
  • The empty containers should be left overnight in a fume hood to evaporate any remaining residue
  • Deface the container label (a big X with a wide tipped marker will suffice)
  • Discard uncapped container in the appropriate waste container (glass disposal box, if appropriate)
Acids and Bases
  • May not go down the drain (except in facilities equipped with an “active” acid-base neutralization system - if you are not sure if your lab has one of these ASK before putting acids and bases down the drain).
  • Get containerized with compatible materials
  • Triple rinse empty container, pouring the rinsate down the drain
  • Deface the container label (a big X with a wide tipped marker will suffice)
  • Discard uncapped container in the appropriate waste container (glass disposal box, if appropriate)
  • In lab waste neutralization is allowed but should be undertaken with caution.
Highly Hazardous Wastes

Also known as EPA  “P List” waste or “Acutely Hazardous” waste, these materials must always be containerized for disposal.  These chemicals are identified in this document.  The original containers of “P” listed waste are also considered chemical waste and must also be removed by EHS.  If you are using a P listed material:

  • Containerize the waste
  • When empty, cap the container and label it “Waste”
  • Do not rinse the bottle
  • Do not dispose of the bottle as glass waste or regular trash
  • Use EHSA to generate a waste pick up request