Hazardous Materials/Waste Regulations
There are complex regulations at the federal, state and local level which govern the generation, storage and disposal of hazardous chemical waste. Even the definition of hazardous waste is complex. As a result, it is Humboldt policy that there shall be no drain or trash disposal of any laboratory reagents for which specific approval has not been obtained in writing from the Environmental Health and Safety Office. Local authorities may monitor the effluent from Humboldt and can enforce severe penalties on individuals caught dumping chemicals down the drain.
Humboldt has authorized waste handling procedures for the safe accumulation, handling and packaging of hazardous chemical waste.
Click here for an example of Humboldt hazardous waste definitions.
Correct and complete hazardous waste labeling is required for all waste materials. There is specific information required for all hazardous wastes. The easiest way to comply with the labeling requirements is to use one of the labels available from the following sources.
- Example of Humboldt Hazardous Waste Transfer Request label. These tags are available from the EH&S Coordinator at 826-3302.
- Example label from the Humboldt Chemistry Department (see Michelle Dostal, Sci A 569 for instructions regarding chemistry labels).
- Example label from the Humboldt Biology Stockroom. See Biology Stockroom manager (Sci B 230) for information about generating this label.
Both federal and state statutes mandate waste minimization. Click here for Waste Minimization Guidelines. There are substantial costs associated with hazardous waste disposal. Waste minimization practices can help decrease the costs.
Disposal of biohazardous (infectious) wastes and sharps (needles, syringes, etc.) are regulated by the Medical Waste Management Act (California Health and Safety Code Division 104, Part 14, Sections 117600 et seq.) and the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (Subchapter 7. General Industry Safety Orders Group 16. Control of Hazardous Substances Article 109. Hazardous Substances and Processes §5193. Bloodborne Pathogens.)