How to Store and Transport HHW
Some types and quantities of household hazardous products have no proper disposal options available and must be saved for a household hazardous waste collection. In order to protect health and environment, safe and proper storage of household hazardous waste is vital.
- Do not mix chemicals!!!
- Keep products in original labeled containers if possible.
- If the product is in a rusting metal or breakable container, it will need to be repackaged.
Materials Needed
- Protective gloves, such as nitrile or chemical resistant gloves
- A large, plastic container with a tight-fitting lid
- A nonflammable absorbent material, such as clay-based cat box filler. WARNING: Using flammable materials such as non-clay cat box filler or newspapers for over-packing may lead to spontaneous combustion (fire).
Procedures
- Protect the product’s label. Whenever possible, store substances in their original containers. If a known substance is not in its original container, clearly label the current container with the product’s name, the date, and the words “DANGER” and “DO NOT OPEN.” If the item is an unknown substance, clearly label the container with the current date and the words “UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE,” “DANGER,” and “DO NOT OPEN.”
- The product (in a rusting metal or breakable container) should be placed within a larger, plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
- A nonflammable absorbent material, such as clay-based cat box filler, should be packed around the product to absorb any possible leaks.
- Clearly label the outside with the contents and date. Write the words “DANGER” and “DO NOT OPEN” on the outside of the container.
- If the product is flammable, store it away from all sources of heat, spark, flame, or ignition. Remember these sources include water heaters, electrical appliances, light switches, electric garage door openers, pilot lights, engines, and motors.
- Store the container out of reach of children and animals in a separate locked cabinet or other secure structure.
