Disposal of "Unknowns"
"Unknowns" are chemicals in containers where the labels have been lost or the name of the chemical on the label is obliterated. They are a waste management headache because unknowns must be handled as hazardous, flammable, toxic, and reactive materials, until we can narrow down the identity.
Unknowns are also not permitted in our hazardous waste facilities. Our clients have to hold on to their unknowns until the next shipment date. When we pick up the unknowns on shipment day, our hazardous waste contractor runs a series of spot tests to fingerprint the unknown into a proper shipping class so it can be shipped to a disposal site. The extra time and handling adds significantly to the cost of disposal.
What can I do to help?
- Keep a current inventory of your chemical stocks.
- Routinely check that all chemical containers are labeled.
- Refasten any loose label.
- Relabel any containers whose label is beginning to deteriorate.
- Store chemical containers so that the labels are not damaged by chemical or physical insults.
- Dispose of chemicals before you forget what they are.
- Keep the minimum amount of chemicals necessary in stock.
- Label all waste containers.
For additional information, please contact Environmental Affairs staff at x4999 or x2883.
October 2, 2007 by SAK