The aim of my research action plan is to address how people disposed of their hazardous chemical waste from households and schools within the Liverpool area.
What is hazardous chemical waste? Chemical waste is a waste that is made from harmful chemicals such as: * Paint/ artist paint/ paint thinner * Motor oil * BBQ gas cylinders * Insect sprays * Rat poisons * Garden chemicals- fertilisers , insecticides * Car wax * Swimming pool chemicals * Ink/photographic chemicals * Acids
What do schools do with their chemical waste?
Many schools have an increase of hazardous chemicals they are no longer using, and these chemicals may be expensive to dispose of properly. Schools may have hazardous chemicals in their science laboratories, art and photography, and their care departments (cleaning supplies, insect /bug killer)
If possible, store all chemicals in a central place in the school. Do not store chemicals by alphabetical order, but instead by the chemical’s hazard classification, which is based upon a chemical’s compatibility and reactivity. When possible, chemical use and, therefore, chemical waste should be minimized by using micro-scale chemistry (decrease of chemical use to the minimum level at which experiments can be effectively performed).
By law, all school staff that routinely works with hazardous chemicals must receive proper training in all stages of chemical management, including safe storage, proper use, potential hazards and proper method of disposal.
Sometimes check stored chemicals for signs of leakage, rusting, peeled labels, and expiration date.
A chemical spill plan should be in place at the school in case of accidents.
Why is it important to dispose of hazardous chemical waste properly?
Hazardous waste can potentially cause serious harm to the environment and your health if not managed and dispose of correctly.
Storing old chemicals in