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THE ORCBS > Hazardous Waste > Programs & Guidelines > Waste Disposal Guide >  Disposal
Of Unknowns
Chemical wastes with no identification (unknowns) present a particularly dangerous threat, due to their unknown composition and characteristics. Unknown waste should not be transported, treated, or disposed of until chemical analysis has been completed to determine hazardous properties. Under no circumstances should an unknown waste be placed in a shipping container with properly labeled and manifested wastes. The ORCBS will accept unknowns at its discretion provided that they have been roughly classified. Unknowns may be classified by obtaining the following information and adding it to both the waste tags and pick-up request forms.
All tests performed should be conducted in a functioning fume hood. Use as small a sample as reasonably possible while performing tests. Add a small amount of sample to water rather than adding water to the sample. When performing flame tests with solids, use a small spatula to minimize potential reactions. For liquids, use cotton tipped applicators to dip into the liquid before igniting. Other information may be obtained by querying colleagues or neighboring lab personnel who may have knowledge of the types of chemicals which were used in that area. If it is believed that handling or opening an unknown may cause it to detonate or react adversely, then contact the ORCBS for an on site consultation prior to testing. Departments are strongly encouraged to analyze their unknown wastes. Alternatively, the ORCBS can make arrangements for disposal of unknowns. A charge of $75.00 per container will be assessed for analysis. |
