ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of potential hazards, planning considerations, provisions for storage of waste chemicals, the role of waste minimization, and comment on common practices — some good and some not so good. Storage and handling of hazardous wastes generated in laboratories is a relatively new area of concern within the broader context of laboratory design. Empty solvent and acid bottles are often used by laboratory workers for storage of wastes. One solution that is frequently considered for storage of chemical wastes is the designation of a centralized waste storage room in a building. In general, the hazards of waste chemicals in the laboratory are similar to the hazards of the same chemicals when used in the laboratory before they become wastes. Larger institutions will usually have one or more central chemical stockrooms. Chemical stockrooms may be satisfactory for storage of waste chemicals.
