DISPOSAL OF CHEMICALS

• Hydrogen peroxide

  Wastes a low concentration can be poured directly into the lab sink. However, hydrogen peroxide with a high concentration has to be diluted with water a Hydrogen peroxide wastes with a low concentration can be poured directly into the laborato added with sodium sulphite for the decomposition process to take place before being poured is

  the sink.
• Solid wastes

  Solid wastes like glass and rubber have to be disposed into special containers.
• Organic solvents and hydrocarbons

  Most organic solvents and hydrocarbons are toxic, carcinogenic, volatile and inflammable. This type of wastes cannot be disposed directly into the sink or the laboratory drain because it would pollute the water source and the environment. Organic solvent and hydrocarbon wastes should be kept in special containers made of glass or plastic.
• Substances with pH<5 and pH>9


  Substances with a pH value of pH<5 and pH>9 are strong acids and strong alkalis respectively. Strong acid and alkali wastes can cause damage to the sink and react with water to release high heat and toxic gases. Strong acid and alkali wastes should be kept in closed labelled containers during disposal.
• Heavy metals and toxic substances

  Solutions containing heavy metals and toxic substances have to be kept in plastic bags and the solutions be left to evaporate in the fume chamber. Then, the bag of heavy metal residue is tied carefully and is put into the container of heavy metal waste. This type of substances should be discarded and disposed according to standard procedures.
• Volatile substances

  Substances such as alcohol, ammonia and bromine are volatile, that is easily converted to gas at room temperature. Some of the gases produced from volatile substances are hazardous to humans and can be fatal if inhaled in large amounts. Volatile wastes should be stored in closed containers and kept away from sun and heat.