Hazardous Waste Handling

The proper handling of hazardous waste is essential to protect the health and safety of individuals, families, communities, and the environment. Hazardous waste should never be placed into garbage cans, poured down the drain, or flushed down the toilet. In some cases, hazardous waste storage can be dangerous, so it is recommended that consumers follow package instructions and find out more about hazardous waste disposal from government agencies and disposal companies. The EPA recommends leaving hazardous materials in original containers for identification.

Types of hazardous waste commonly found in households include:

• Oil-based paints
• Chemical cleaners
• Glues
• Solvents
• Used motor oil
• Auto fluids
• Prescription medicine
• Medicated products
• Pesticides
• Mercury-containing thermometers, lights, switches, etc.
• Aerosols and propane cylinders
• Appliances with refrigerants
• Batteries (lithium, nickel cadmium, or button cell)
• Ammunition
• Radioactive waste in some smoke detectors
• Electronics (cell phones, computers, etc.)
• Hair dyes

Proper use, storage, and disposal of hazardous household items is important to avoid ingestion and exposure in adults and children. These products have the potential to cause a fire or combust, and can poison groundwater and animals.

To dispose of hazardous waste, check with the EPA and local government agencies for household hazardous waste drop-off sites and events. Find out about local businesses like auto repair shops, electronics stores, tire shops, retailers, and pharmacies that offer disposal options for certain types of hazardous waste.

Some hazardous waste items can be recycled into new products, for example: heavy metals can be recovered from electronics for future use. Items with corrosive acid can be neutralized to make them non-corrosive. Other hazardous items, like prescription medicines, oils, and solvents are often incinerated. Sequestering or isolation is used in certain types of hazardous waste where dangerous substances are placed in a permanent disposal facility.

Keep hazardous items out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion or exposure to hazardous waste occurs, call the poison control center for advice. For emergencies, call 911 immediately.