Chemical wastes generated through research and clinical studies are collected on a routine basis by members of the Environmental Protection Program. For more information on hazardous waste disposal.
Call the Hazardous waste line at 500-5837 Or Email a waste request
Chemical Waste
Hazardous Chemical Wastes
Hazardous wastes are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (formerly the TNRCC). Failure to comply with waste management regulations such as labeling and storage requirements can result in significant criminal and civil liability. All waste streams (chemical, biological, radioactive, and facility related) are collected, consolidated, and packaged and labeled for off site shipment or disposal the Environmental Health & Safety, Environmental Protection Program. This component of EHS provides a one stop shop for laboratory personnel to dispose of their specific waste streams.
Sewer and Trash Disposal
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston subscribes to a no drain policy for disposal of laboratory chemicals. Disposal of chemical wastes should be facilitated by the Environmental Protection Program. 713-500-5837 or cater@uth.tmc.edu
Collection of Chemical Waste
The Chemical Waste collection procedure at the UTHealth has been designed to provide an efficient mechanism for laboratory personnel to dispose of there specific waste streams. Investigators wishing to dispose of chemical wastes should adhere to the following guidelines when disposing of hazardous chemical waste:
Empty chemical containers
Deface label or mark "empty". Place near regular trash. Containers must be completely empty!
Broken glass
Place noninfectious broken glass or pipettes in a broken glass container or cardboard box.. Label "broken glass", seal with tape, and place near regular trash for collection by housekeeping. At MSB, broken glass containers can be obtained in CYF G101. At DBB, broken glass containers can be obtained in DBB 3.099. If you cannot find the supplies, please call 713-500-5832 for assistance. Additionally, broken glass boxes are stored in DAC 928 and IMM 910.
Chemical Waste Collection Procedure: (MSB, SPH, MSI DBB and Health Clinics)
Liquid & Solid - Place waste in compatible container. Containers should be stored in secondary containment, segregated by hazard class, and labeled "hazardous waste". Labels are provided free of charge by EPD and can be obtained by leaving a message at 713-500-5837. When the container is full, write the date on the hazardous waste label and call 713-500-5837 for collection. Chemical waste will be removed within 72 hours.
Chemical Waste Collection Procedure: (DAC, IMM)
Place waste in compatible container. Containers should be stored in secondary containment, segregated by hazard class, and labeled "hazardous waste". Labels are provided free of charge by EPD and can be obtained by leaving a message at 713-500-5837. When the container is full, write the date on the hazardous waste label and place in the flammable storage cabinet located in the container storage room (DAC 928 IMM 910). Environmental Protection employees will consolidate the chemical wastes and remove full bulk containers.
