Proper storage and disposal of laboratory waste is a key to keeping a safe work environment. If you generate or handle wastes in this department, it is incumbent upon you to follow the established guidelines concerning the proper disposal of hazardous waste. In order to ensure compliance with these rules, the department, the university, state, and federal agencies perform unannounced inspections of laboratory facilities on a routine basis. Violations can result in substantial fines or even the closing of the laboratory.
This page will assist you in proper handling and disposal of hazardous chemical waste. If at any time you are unsure of how to deal with wastes, immediately consult your PI or supervisor, A&S Space and Facilities, or EHS: Environmental Management Division directly.
Disposal of Hazardous Waste
- Create a hazardous waste card (use this guide for help) and insert into the container's hazardous waste sleeve.
- Add the card to a pickup worksheet within the system and submit (important step #3).
- Hazardous waste then remains properly stored in the lab in which it was generated and Environmental Management (a division of UK EHS) will retrieve it directly from this location. Please make sure to be available for pickup or leave specific instructions on the submitted worksheet as to either where the hazardous waste is located in the lab or how to contact someone in the lab when waste technicians arrive to pickup.