Proper Waste Disposal of Chemical Bottles

Plastic bottles used specifically for the storage and transport of chemical substances should be disposed of properly. These are usually used in a laboratory setting and may contain chemicals that are toxic and dangerous to humans as well as the environment. Properly disposing of chemical bottles will ensure both you and your surroundings are safe.

Instructions

• 1

  Check the label on the chemical bottle to determine if the chemical that was in the container is on the list of acutely hazardous wastes. Search the list thoroughly to see if the name of the chemical is on the list. If the bottle contained a chemical on the list, the bottle must be disposed of as chemical waste. If this is the case, place the bottle in the labeled chemical waste box or bin.

• 2

  Rinse the chemical bottle three times with water or suitable solvent and let it air dry, if the chemical it contained is not on the hazardous list. After rinsing, place the bottle in a well ventilated area to air dry. If the bottle has visible residue that cannot be removed by rinsing, place the bottle in the receptacle for chemical waste.

• 3

  Place the empty chemical bottle in the appropriate recyclable container or receptacle. Check the bottle to ensure it is properly cleaned and free of residue after it has dried. Carefully put the bottle in the recyclable container to dispose of it.