A week ago we had a weekly safety meeting about the hidden dangers of aerosol cans. Today we are following up with the proper disposal procedures.
Leftover materials in partially filled cans may qualify as hazardous waste. If a can is found to be inoperative or malfunctioning, returning it to the supplier will prevent the user from having to treat it as hazardous waste. Cans that are completely empty of both propellant and product are not considered to be hazardous waste, and may be recyclable.
Things to consider when disposing of aerosol cans:
- If there are leftovers in the can, consider using the product up, or giving it to someone else who can use it.
- Cans that contain hazardous wastes should be placed in a closed container indicating that the waste is hazardous. The labeling should indicate the type of waste and the date when the container began to be used. Keep records of when and how the waste was disposed or recycled.
- Due to explosion hazards, aerosol cans should never be placed in/near fires or heated locations.
- Pressurized cans should never be punctured or compacted without the proper equipment. Puncture or compaction of a container under such great pressure could not only lead to serious injury, but environmental exposure of the contents of the container.
Conclusion:
Empty aerosol cans are safe for the trash; however, leftovers should be brought to a local Household Hazardous Waste Collection Site.
Questions:
- Even though the aerosol can is empty, it is still considered hazardous waste. True or False?
- True or False, it’s OK to puncture the aerosol can to empty it?