Disposal - Hach DR2400 Manual

4.3.4 Disposal

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Flash point is below 60 °C (140 °F), or it is classified by DOT as an oxidizer
(D001).
The pH of the material is ≤2 or ≥12.5 (D002).
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The material is unstable, reacts violently with water, may generate toxic
gases when mixed with water (D003).
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It is toxic (D004–D043).
Use the chemical composition data to decide if a material is toxic based on the
concentration of certain contaminants (Heavy metals and a number of organic
compounds). If the waste is a liquid, compare the concentration of contaminants
to the concentrations listed in 40 CFR 26. If the waste is a solid, analyze the
sample by the Toxicity Characteristic Leachability Procedure (TCLP) and then
compare the results to the concentrations in 40 CFR 261.24. Levels above the
threshold amounts are considered hazardous.
For more information on using the MSDS, see Material Safety Data Sheets on
page 60.
Some Hach tests use or produce a number of chemicals that make the end
product a hazardous waste; for example, the COD tests and Nessler's reagent.
Hazardous waste status may also result from substances present in the sample.
Hazardous waste must be managed and disposed of according to federal, state,
and local regulations. The waste generator is responsible for making hazardous
waste determinations. Analysts should check with their facility's environmental
compliance department for specific instructions.
Most hazardous wastes should be handled by treatment, storage, and disposal
facilities (TSDF) that have USEPA permits. In some cases, the generator may
treat the hazardous waste, but may need a permit from the USEPA and/or state
agency. Laboratories are not exempt from these regulations. If your facility is a
"Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator," special rules may apply.
Check 40 CFR 261 to determine if you have to comply with all the laws.
The most common allowed treatment is elementary neutralization. This applies
to wastes that are hazardous only because they are corrosive, or are listed only
for that reason. Neutralize acidic solutions by adding a base such as sodium
hydroxide; neutralize basic solutions by adding an acid such as hydrochloric
acid. Slowly add the neutralizing agent while stirring. Monitor the pH. When it
is at or near 7, the material is neutralized and may be flushed down the drain.
Many wastes generated from Hach procedures may be treated in this manner.
Other chemical or physical treatments such as cyanide destruction or
evaporation may require a permit. Check with your environmental department
or local regulators to determine which rules apply to your facility.
Laboratory chemicals may be mixed and disposed of with other hazardous
wastes generated at your facility. They may also be accumulated in accordance
with 40 CFR 262.34 satellite accumulation rules. After collection they may be
disposed of in a labpack. Many environmental and hazardous waste companies
offer labpacking services. They will inventory, sort, pack, and arrange for proper
disposal of hazardous waste. Find companies offering these services in the
Yellow Pages under "Waste Disposal — Hazardous" or contact state and local
regulators for assistance.
Waste Management and Safety
Waste Management and Safety
Page 57