BEST PRACTICES

“Household hazardous materials” or more commonly “Household Hazardous Waste” (“HHW”) refers to everyday products that are found in residential settings that can cause harm to human health and the environment if not treated properly. These items include a wide range of consumer products, some of which are likely present in your household. Consider this brief list:

• Non-alkaline batteries especially “button batteries” that are contain mercury
• Chlorine bleach
• Drain cleaners and spot removers
• Paints, stains, varnishes and finishes especially those that are oil-based
• Pool chemicals
• Fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and other lawn care products
• Antifreeze, used oil, and other waste materials related to automobiles
• Fire extinguishers
• Lighter fluid
• Fluorescent and halogen bulbs

All of these materials have physical characteristics that would qualify them as “hazardous wastes” - that is, they are ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic - if they were to be disposed of by a regulated organization like a business or university. Although households are excluded from regulation under RCRA, these products should still be handled properly because they can be dangerous. For example, they can physically injure residents or custodial workers (think of bleach), contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems if they are poured down drains (lighter fluid or herbicides), or release contaminants to the environment if sent to a landfill or an incinerator (batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and others).

Therefore, even when not required by environmental regulations, the following best practices should be used:

• Use and store products containing hazardous substances carefully. Make a habit of reading product labels and carefully follow the directions for use.
• Use household hazardous materials outside or in well-ventilated rooms and avoid breathing in fumes. Only use the recommended amount of the material, and when possible, buy only the quantity you need. If you cannot use the entire amount, share, donate or recycle what is left.
• When you are purchasing products, such as household cleaners seek out nontoxic alternatives (product labels will include information on toxic constituents).
• Purchase non-aerosol products to minimize the release of harmful vapors.
• Keep products containing hazardous materials in their original containers and never remove the labels. Corroding containers, however, should be repackaged and clearly labeled in order to help protect others.
• Never mix leftover household hazardous waste with other products. Incompatible substances may react, ignite or explode.
• Purchase products in childproof packaging and never store leftover household hazardous waste in food containers.
• Follow all instructions for disposal and use provided on the label.
• Seek out information on how to properly dispose of leftover HHW. Many communities and colleges and universities have periodic collection events where residents can bring Household Hazardous Wastes. Call your local government or your school’s EH&S department to ask how to properly dispose of these materials. Do NOT throw them into your regular trash!