How to safely dispose of laboratory waste?
Laboratories deal with hazardous, chemical and toxic waste streams. Safe disposal of your laboratory waste is therefore very important. Not only for the environment, but also for the safety of your employees and third parties who may come into contact with various lab waste.
For the disposal of laboratory waste strict regulations apply to ensure safe storage, collection and disposal. This page tells you how to collect and dispose of your laboratory waste responsibly and safely.
Determine laboratory waste streams
Laboratory waste streams can vary widely. For example, they may be liquid or solid waste types, low-risk and high-risk solvents, small and large quantities. To shape your waste management in a controlled way, mapping the different waste types (categories) is the starting point. By working with clear and detailed lists and protocols, a clear and traceable collection plan can be maintained.
View regulations and lab waste category
The second step is to check the regulations of each lab waste category. Below is a list of all categories:
- Category 1: Acids
- Category 2: Alkalis, Bases
- Category 3: Low-halogen organic liquids
- Category 4: Halogen-rich organic liquids
- Category 5: Solids
- Category 6: Substances presenting exceptional risks
Always check the laboratory waste rules and regulations carefully to understand the safe disposal of each individual category. Of course, you can always contact us without obligation if you have any questions.
Use the right waste drums and labels
The third step is to deploy the right waste drums for each chemical waste stream/category. They should be approved drums, drums, waste bins or containers. In addition, they should obviously be leak-proof and in good working condition at all times. The use of labels and tags is also mandatory. Every lab waste drum must have proper labelling, which is clearly legible, so that no unclear or dangerous situation can ever arise during collection and processing. You can choose from various types of packaging (including labelling) especially for laboratories.
More information on responsible laboratory waste disposal?
Do you have questions about the responsible and safe disposal of your laboratory waste? Our specialists will be happy to help. Feel free to contact us to discuss all options.