What is Household Hazardous Waste?

Household hazardous waste represents a wide variety of wastes which are produced as a result of normal household activities. Among the most common of these are:

• pesticides, paints and varnishes
• paint thinners and other solvents
• motor oil, antifreeze and other automobile fluids
• household cleaners, polishes and waxes
• wood preservatives, photo and hobby chemicals
• swimming pool chemicals and batteries

Each of these products may pose a threat to sanitation workers or public health and the environment when improperly handled or disposed. Household hazardous waste discarded with other trash may contaminate the air or groundwater, react or explode in waste compactors, or injure personnel handling these wastes. Improper disposal to sanitary or storm water sewers may damage septic systems, sewage treatment plants, drinking water supplies, corrode plumbing, or cause treatment plant sludge to be hazardous.

Homes are full of hazardous waste. Look for the words Danger, Poison, Warning or Caution on the product label. Danger and Poison are the most hazardous products. Warning and Caution are less hazardous products. A waste is classified as hazardous if it has one of the following characteristics:

• Ignitable
• Corrosive
• Reactive
• Toxic

Ignitable

Flammable. Burns easily. Paint, thinners and other solvents, and auto products are the most flammable home products. Look for words on the product label like:

• "Do not use near heat or flame."
• "Combustible."
• "Do not smoke while using this product."

Corrosive

Eats through materials (for example, acid). Oven cleaners, drain cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners and auto batteries are common corrosive products. Look for words on the product label like:

• "Causes severe burns on contact."
• "Can burn eyes, skin, and throat."

Reactive

Can explode when exposed to heat, air, water or shock. There are few consumer products still on the market that are explosive (except for fireworks).

Toxic

Poisonous or causes long-term illness, such as cancer. Pesticides, paint thinners, many auto products and some cleaners are toxic. Look for words on the product label like:

• "Harmful or fatal if swallowed."
• "Use only in a well-ventilated area." (This means product fumes are toxic.)

Improper use of hazardous products present two types of dangers to health and the environment: acute or chronic. Acute effects are immediate and characterized by severe symptoms with a sudden reaction. Chronic effects are gradual and occur through repeated exposure over an extended period of time. To avoid these dangers, use hazardous products according to the label directions. If you have leftover household hazardous products please dispose of these wastes through the City of Lawrence/Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste Program.