3 Different Categories of Chemical Waste

We rely heavily on chemicals in our everyday lives, but that doesn’t mean chemicals are always safe. With the increasing use of chemicals comes the issue of chemical waste. How should you handle and dispose of it? Read on to find out the three different categories of chemical waste and how to work with them.

Corrosive Waste

Corrosive waste includes any acidic or alkaline solution that can corrode metal containers, pipes, or tanks. Examples of corrosive waste include battery acids, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide. The best way to handle corrosive waste is to store it in a chemical-resistant container labeled with the chemical name and hazard warning.

Keep corrosive waste in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area that’s away from incompatible materials. You should neutralize or dilute corrosive waste with water before disposal.

Ignitable Waste

Ignitable waste is any liquid, solid, or gas that can easily catch fire or contribute to a fire. Examples of ignitable waste include solvents, gasoline, and oils. This waste should be in a fire-resistant container labeled with the chemical name and hazard warning.

Similar to corrosive waste, always keep ignitable waste in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area far from heat sources and oxidizing agents. When disposing of ignitable waste, you should burn it in an incinerator or recycle it.

Reactive Waste

Reactive waste includes any chemical that can react violently with other chemicals or cause explosions. Examples of reactive waste include ammonium nitrate, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium metal. You should store reactive waste in a chemical-resistant container with a chemical name and hazard warning label on it.

When disposing of reactive waste, neutralize it with other chemicals to make it less hazardous.

Now that you know more about the three different categories of chemical waste, you should help reduce the negative impact of chemicals on our planet and our health through proper techniques for neutralizing chemical spills.