Disposal of Hazardous Chemicals

 B. Sc Chemistry III & IV Semester NEP 2020 w.e.f June 2025

SEC00022764P

CHE/SEC/P/276
Lab Safety and Laboratory Practices
(Practical Paper)

Disposal of Hazardous Chemicals

Aim:

To study safe methods for the disposal of hazardous chemicals in the laboratory.


Principle:

Hazardous chemicals can cause harm to humans and the environment if not disposed of properly. Proper disposal methods are followed based on the nature of the chemical (toxic, corrosive, flammable, reactive) to ensure safety and prevent pollution.


Apparatus/Materials Required:

  • Waste containers (labeled)

  • Protective gloves and goggles

  • Chemical waste disposal charts

  • Neutralizing agents (if required)

  • Laboratory manual


Procedure:

  1. Identify the type of chemical waste (acidic, basic, organic, toxic, etc.).

  2. Segregate waste into different containers (do not mix incompatible chemicals).

  3. Label the waste containers properly with name and hazard symbol.

  4. Neutralize acids and bases carefully before disposal (if permitted).

  5. Collect organic solvents separately for proper disposal or recycling.

  6. Do not pour toxic or heavy metal chemicals into the sink.

  7. Dispose of waste according to laboratory guidelines or hand over to authorized disposal agencies.


Types of Hazardous Waste & Disposal Methods:

Type of WasteDisposal Method
Acids/BasesNeutralization before disposal
Organic SolventsSeparate collection & recycling
Heavy Metals (Cr, Pb)Special hazardous waste disposal
Toxic ChemicalsIncineration or authorized disposal
Solid WasteProper labeled containers

Observations:

Sr. No.Waste TypeMethod Used
1AcidNeutralized
2Organic solventStored separately
3Toxic chemicalSent for disposal

Result:

Safe disposal methods for hazardous chemicals were studied and understood successfully.