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| TRASH
AND
RECYCLING
Household
Hazardous Products
Storage
of Garbage & Rubbish
A
recycling guide
for Small & large multi unit building property owners and
building management company's.
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CONTACT
For more information, or to report any violations, contact:
Ed Gilbert,
DPW (617) 646-2700
Environmental Health Supervisor
Dawn Churchill,
DPW (617) 646 2700
Environmental Health Specialist |
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Letter to all
property owners and building management companies regarding Mandatory
Recycling ByLaw
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STORAGE OF GARBAGE &
RUBBISH
Rodents carry many diseases. Follow these simple
rules and prevent a rodent problem in your neighborhood.
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Garbage and rubbish shall be stored in
receptacles that are: |
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Durable |
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Water-Tight |
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Rodent-Proof |
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Equipped with Tight-Fitting Covers
No larger than 35 gallons |
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There must be a sufficient number of
up to 35 gallon receptacles to contain the accumulation of garbage and rubbish. *
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The owner of any dwelling or parcel of land
shall be responsible for keeping all areas clean & sanitary, free from loose garbage
and rubbish.
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Occupants must do their part and place
garbage and rubbish in the required receptacles and put covers back on barrels and/or
close lid of dumpsters.
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| * Owners of any dwelling that contains three (3) or more dwelling units are responsible
for providing these receptacles. |
Containers used to collect recyclable materials shall be clearly labled with the word "Recycle" or "Recyclable" or the "Chasing Arrows" recycling symbol.
Containers used to collect recyclable materials shall have adequate capacity and durability to function efficiently and meet the spatial constraints of the building. For those residents who subscribe to town disposal service for the collection of recyclable material, The town of Brookline shall provide receptacles for the storage and collection of recyclable materials.
Containers located outdoors shall be covered or otherwise secured to prevent materials from blowing, leaking or falling out and to protect the materials from the elements and vector populations. The property owner or manager shall maintain all recycling areas in a clean, sanitary and litter free manner. Indoor common-area collection/Storage areas shall be established in accordance with appropriate Town of Brookline fire and/or safety codes and shall not create a nuisance.
The collection of recycling materials will coincide with solid waste collection. In no event shall recycling be placed out before 3:30 pm of the day preceding the scheduled day for collection and no later than 7:00 am on the day of scheduled collection.
Enforcement
If waste materials are not separated and are left or put out for waste collection. The town or its agent will not be required to pick up the unseparated materials. The owner of the property or the person who left or put out the waste must remove any such uncollected materials within a twelve hour period and shall be subject to a fine of $50 for each time unseparated materials are put out for collection.
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RECYCLING
Residents who
participate in recycling programs are reminded that all containers must
be clean and free of food waste. For questions regarding recycling,
please contact the Department of Public Works at (617) 730-2156 or the
Recycling Coordinator at (617) 646-2700.
Recycle/Reuse Flyer (PDF
Format)
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Getting a free Recycling
Bin
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Blue recycling bins are available free of charge for residents who subscribe to Town Disposal Service. Bins are available for pick-up from the Department of Public Works,
870 Hammond St.(temporary location while Town Hall is being
refurbished). during regular business hours. In order to receive a bin, you must show proof of residency at a Brookline household that is on Town Disposal Service. For more information, please call the Department of Public Works at 617-730-2156.
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| Curbside
Recycling for Brookline
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| COMPUTER MONITORS AND
TELEVISIONS
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| The DPW now collects curbside for residents on municipal trash service computer
monitors and televisions. Please schedule pickup one week in
advance by calling
the DPW at 730-2156. There will be no pickups during holiday weeks.
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PLASTIC BAG
RECYCLING
The following list of stores
will take plastic bags and other recycled material. Whole Foods, Roche
Bros, Star Markets and Osco drugs. Please visit
www.earth911.com for more
info.
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BATTERY RECYCLING
The Town of Brookline has a Nickel Cadmium battery recycling drop-off
site at the DPW office at Town Hall. Alkaline batteries (those used in most
household appliances) made after 1994 are no longer made with mercury and may be disposed
of in regular trash.
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CELL PHONE RECYCLING
For the nearest location to recycle your old cell phones please call 1 800 8 battery and follow the instructions.
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Where Does My Recycling Go?
Do you wonder where your recycling goes once your blue bin is emptied at
the curb?
Do you wonder what your recycling is made into?
The Town has a contract with Whitney Trucking to collect recycling from
over 13,255 households and about 60 businesses in Brookline each week.
Whitney sends out three recycling trucks. The recycling trucks are
divided into two different compartments: one for commingles (glass,
plastic and metal containers) and one for mixed paper and cardboard.
When the truck is full, Whitney brings the material to FCR Recycling of
New England, a processing plant in Charlestown where the material gets
weighed, sorted and baled. About 150 recycling trucks dump material at
the facility daily from about 50 communities in the Boston area.
At FCR, the processing of recyclables is assisted by advanced sorting
technology. In addition, recycling processing is labor intensive. This
reinforces the importance of properly preparing your recycling!
None of the recyclable containers are washed at the processing facility;
so dirty recyclables are considered trash. If a recycling truck is mixed
or contains trash, the entire load can be rejected leading to additional
processing costs and more material sent to landfill or incinerators.
This is why it is important that you rinse out jars, cans and tubs so
that the materials are free from food. In addition, it is equally
important to keep your papers separate from your containers since the
truck has separate compartments and they are going to different sorting
areas in the recycling processing facility.
About 500 tons of paper is processed each day. While the paper and
cardboard move along the conveyor belt, electronic eyes and then people
separate the material into difference "grades" and remove contaminants.
For example, pizza boxes are considered a contaminant because of the
grease and food residue.
On another conveyor, as the commingled containers flow along, metals are
yanked out from overhead magnets and propelled into a holding area.
Broken glass and bottle caps shake out and fall onto a lower conveyor
for further processing.
The remaining material: plastics, aluminum and milk cartons are blown
around by air jets strategically placed to push and draw light materials
over to a manual sorting conveyor. Glass containers travel onto another
conveyor where the clear containers are separated from the colored
glass.
Once everything is thoroughly sorted, the material is baled separately.
Huge bales of plastics, metals, paper and cardboard are stacked up in
the facility and await loading into export containers, trailers and rail
cars for direct shipment to companies that use the material to make new
products.
Each month, FCR provides the town a monthly market report. Although
demand for the material and the end markets fluctuate, the end
destinations are relatively constant. In
this table, you can see who picks up your recycling, what company
processes it, its general end destination and what products are made
from the material you have recycled.
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YARD WASTE
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Yard Waste will be collected between April 1st and
December 31st |
Yard Waste shall be placed out with
solid waste. Avoid fines do not place out before 3:30 the day before
solid waste pick up.
See V(A)(3) – Acceptable yard waste shall be tied in standard bundles
not to exceed 75 pounds and/or three(3) feet in length. Other acceptable
yard waste, such as leaves, shall be placed out for collection in paper
yard waste bags or rubbish containers labeled “Yard Waste” (stickers
available at the Municipal Service Center).
Acceptable
• Leaves
• Grass clippings
• Shrub trimmings
• Plant cuttings
• Tree branches, limbs and vines
*(not exceeding 3 inches in diameter or 3 foot length)
Unacceptable Materials
• Sand
• Soil
• Sod
• Logs
• Rocks
• Stumps and trunks
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COMPOST BINS
To assist you in your efforts, home composting bins may be purchased at
a discounted price from the Brookline Department of Public Works
(617)-730-2156
Compost Bin Order Form (PDF)
.Also check out this web site for more composting information
http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Organics/HomeCompost/
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| Christmas Trees |
| The Parks and Open Space
Division will collect Christmas trees curbside from Dec 26. thru Jan 31
2008. Place your tree outside with your trash and recycling on your
regular refuse collection day. Please do not wrap your tree in
plastic.The trees are chipped and used for mulch.
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LARGE ITEMS
Remember to inform the
Department of Public Works by telephone at (617) 730-2156 to schedule the collection of oversized items one
week prior to the routine collection day. The Department will schedule up to three (3)
items per week.
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HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
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Refuse will be picked up once
per week on a regularly scheduled collection day except when collection is interrupted by
a legal holiday. When this occurs, all residents shall place refuse out for collection one
(1) day later then their usual collection day for the entire week. This includes residents
whose collection day is Friday putting refuse out for Saturday pick-up.
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COLLECTION
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Private curbside collection schedule must be
consistent with Town Schedule. Garbage and rubbish may only be placed curbside on Town
pick up day. This may cause some owners to revise their contracts with their private
service.
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Waste must not be in
containers larger than 35 gallons or you could be subject to
warnings and fines.
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Waste is to be placed for collection no
earlier than 3:30 PM on the day before collection, and no later than 7:00 AM
on the day of collection. *
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Waste must be in suitable plastic bags that
are sealed. - No ripped bags are to be placed curbside. *
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Collection areas must be maintained in a
clean & sanitary condition, free from loose garbage & rubbish.
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Waste receptacles must be removed from the
curb before midnight of collection day.
* unless otherwise required by DPH or DPW.
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OWNERS RESPONSIBILITIES
Owners are reminded that they are responsible for informing all tenants of the rules and regulations governing the handling, storage, collection, and disposal of solid waste. Most importantly tenants should be made aware of proper storage practices and day and time garbage can be placed for collection. Owner and/or Tenant may be held responsible for conditions that exist on the property and may be issued fines for violations.
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ENFORCEMENT
Brookline is cleaning up, with the addition of a new employee dedicated solely to solid waste code enforcement. Violators of The Town of Brookline Solid Waste regulations may be issued citations and fines ranging from $50.00 - $300.00.
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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS PRODUCTS
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Brookline Household Hazardous
Products Collection Day
Saturday, May 3rd. 2008 - Information
Sheet |
| Important HHP Questions |
| State
Help Lines |
| General
Consumer Rules
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| Aerosol
Products |
| Antifreeze |
| Appliances with CFCs |
| Art and Crafts Supplies |
| Asbestos |
| Batteries, Automotive |
| Batteries, Household |
| Driveway Sealer |
| Electronics and CRT’s |
| Fire Extinguishers |
| Fluorescent Lamps |
| Gasoline |
| Home Medical Waste |
| Mercury Devices & Liquid Mercury |
| Motor Oil & Oil Filters |
| Muriatic Acid (HCI) |
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Paints and Stains (PDF) |
| Pesticides |
| Photo Chemicals |
| Pool Chemicals |
| Propane Tanks |
| Smoke Detectors |
| Thinners & Solvents |
| Wood, Treated |
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Wood with Lead Paint
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The
following information is a summary of hazards, handling and
management recommendations for specific hazardous household
products. No summary can offer a complete explanation of all
applicable health and safety issues. This booklet was intended
to be a guide to answer commonly asked questions about
hazardous household products, but does not constitute official
rule, regulation or law. For more information on items
discussed on this website, please refer to the material
specific hotline numbers under each section or the state help
lines listed above.
This information was compiled by the Massachusetts
Department of Environmental Protection and modified to provide
accurate information about Brookline’s HHP policies.
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| Important questions to ask regarding hazardous household products: |
What hazardous household products do you have and how much do you have of each?
Has the material been mixed with anything? If so, or if the material is unknown, it will have to be handled at a household hazardous waste collection or commercial hazardous waste facility.
Is the container in good condition? If not, you will need to repackage and re-label the material to store or transport it properly. It is important to keep product labels intact if possible.
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| General rules for consumers to manage hazardous household products |
Use up and store the product according to label directions. Use household chemical products only in well-ventilated areas or outside. Do not leave products unattended in the middle of a job. Keep children and pets away when products are in use. Keep lids on containers tightly sealed whenever the container does not need to be open. Store products out of reach of children and pets and away from food. Store away from sources of heat, flame, or sparks. Do not smoke while using hazardous household products. Do not mix different wastes, keep in original container.
If the container gets wet, damaged, or begins to corrode, keep the product in the original container and place the damaged container inside a plastic bucket with a tight-fitting lid. Clearly label the container and include any label warnings from the product. If you no longer plan to use up a product that is still usable, donate to a friend or community organization that can use it. For example, surplus paints may be welcomed for theater projects, or renovation projects at churches or homeless shelters. Liquid wastes should not go in solid waste landfills or combustion facilities.
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| State help lines |
For consumer questions on HHP:
DEP Household Hazardous Waste Hotline: 800-343-3420
For information on establishing collection programs and general information on hard to manage wastes:
DEP Coordinator Lori Segall for Hard to Manage Wastes 617-292-5704
For questions from businesses about how to manage hazardous materials:
DEP Business Compliance Assistance 617-292-5898
For questions specifically about used oil collection centers:
DEP Used Oil Hotline: 617-556-1022
For poison exposure information:
Poison Control 617-232-2120
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| AEROSOL PRODUCTS |
Hazards
Aerosol cans containing propellant are explosive if crushed or incinerated.
Aerosol propellant can be flammable. Use away from heat or sparks.
Breathing the propellant may be hazardous to human health.
Some aerosol cans contain hazardous chemicals, e.g. pesticides, oven cleaner, etc.
Handling
New can with defective nozzle should be returned to the point of purchase.
Use up the contents or donate to someone who can use it.
Look for warning label on the product. Art materials are non-toxic if the label reads AP (approved product), CP (certified product), or HL (health label).
Do not put full or partially full cans in the trash; they may explode in a trash truck.
Management Options
Empty aerosol containers: Aerosol can is empty when you no longer hear any air released when the nozzle is depressed and the can feels empty when shaken.
Aerosol containers are accepted in Brookline’s curbside recycling program. Remove plastic lid and place with
recyclables.
Partially full containers that you know do not contain hazardous chemicals:
To empty the can of its non-hazardous contents, discharge outdoors into a deep cardboard box or paper bag, and allow the box or bag to dry before placing in the trash. The empty aerosol container can then be recycled or disposed.
All other aerosol containers:
Save for the household hazardous waste collection in May or take to a commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| ANTIFREEZE |
Toxic to small children and may be deadly to animals attracted by its sweet taste.
Spent antifreeze may contain metals from the engine (lead, zinc, copper).
Can disturb the biological action of sewage treatment and septic systems.
Handling
Collect and store spent antifreeze in sealed, labeled, plastic or metal container, away from heat sources, children and pets. Never store in a beverage container; original container is best.
Clean up spills with absorbent (kitty litter, shredded newspaper, vermiculite, rags, etc.); bag waste materials and discard in the trash. Flush soiled area with water.
Do not mix with oil.
Do not dispose down the drain or in storm drains.
Do not dispose of in the trash: liquid wastes can leak in a trash truck. Do not dispose of in the trash: liquid wastes can leak in a trash truck.
Management Options
Unused Antifreeze
Antifreeze does not go bad. Donate to a friend who can use it, a mechanic or school auto shop.
Spent Antifreeze
Take to service station or repair garage that accepts spent antifreeze at no charge.
In Brookline: 275 Boylston St. (Rte. 9) Valvoline Instant Oil Change
If recycling is not available, take to next household hazardous waste collection day in May or a commercial hazardous waste facility.
Note: More environmentally friendly propylene glycol may contain the same pollutants after use and should be disposed as suggested above.
Empty Containers
Dispose of these in the trash.
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| APPLIANCES WITH CFCs |
Hazards
Appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners and dehumidifiers contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a substance that when released, reacts with ozone in the upper atmosphere, reducing this layer's protective properties against ultraviolet radiation.
Handling
Handle in a way that does not damage coils containing refrigerants.
Under federal law, CFCs must be removed before the appliance can be discarded.
Management Options
White goods, large appliances including ovens, washing machines and refrigerators, are banned from disposal in Massachusetts. All appliances using CFCs are included in this ban.
If the appliance is still functioning, call your electric company to see if they have a take-back program for high demand appliances.
Call Yellow Pages for scrap metal dealers who take white goods. Ask for certification that CFCs be removed according to EPA protocol.
CFCs must also be removed from car air conditioners before they can be scrapped.
For more information, call EPA's Stratospheric Ozone Protection Hotline at (800) 296-1996 or (301) 614-3396.
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| EMPTY CONTAINERS |
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| ARTS & CRAFTS SUPPLIES |
Hazards
Certain art and crafts supplies may contain toxic materials, inhalation, ingestion and dermal exposure to which may present a health risk.
Certain solvent-based products may be flammable.
Certain products contain heavy metals that cause hazardous emissions from waste-to-energy facilities.
Handling
Know the contents of the materials you use; ask your supplier for a Material Safety Data Sheet or hotline for the product.
Look for warning label on the product. Art materials should be non-toxic if the manufacturer has appropriately labeled the product AP (approved product), CP (certified product), or HL (health label).
Use with caution; wear goggles and/or rubber gloves if needed.
Provide fresh air to your work area and wear appropriate mask, if needed.
Avoid procedures that create dust. Use wet sanding or dust heads to minimize dust levels.
Clean up wet spills with absorbent (kitty litter, vermiculite or rags). Keep cleanup materials in closed metal containers and away from heat sources to prevent spontaneous combustion.
Reduce hazards during mixing of clay, sanding, and glazing by using exhaust ventilation, such as a spray booth.
Use brushing or dipping methods when possible rather than spraying or airbrushing.
Use up products such as glues, adhesives, and solvents according to directions.
Management options
If you have no further use for the product and it is in usable condition, try to give it away to someone who has a use for it.
Do not dispose of toxic art and craft supplies down the drain.
Aerosol Containers (empty or partially full): See page on "Aerosol Products.
Empty Non-Aerosol Containers and Hardened or Solid Non-Toxic Products:
Dispose of these in the trash.
Liquid Non- Toxic Products:
Evaporate or absorb liquid with cat litter or other absorbent and dispose in trash
Toxic Products
Leftover paints containing toxics, such as cadmium and chromium, should not go in the trash; Over pack in tight container if danger of leaking. Save these materials for a household hazardous waste collection day or take to a commercial hazardous waste facility.
Dried up toxic paints and adhesives can be put in the trash.
For more information about handling and disposal of arts and craft supplies, call Arts, Crafts and Theater Safety (ACTS) at 212-777-0062 or check their web page at
www.caseweb.com/acts/
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| ASBESTOS |
Hazards
Microscopic asbestos fibers from friable (loose or crumbling) asbestos can be suspended in air and inhaled. Once inhaled, fibers remain in lungs, causing lung cancer.
Asbestos may be found in pipe insulation and insulating boards, textured wall surfaces, electrical equipment, floor and roofing tiles and certain adhesives.
Handling
If asbestos is in good condition, and fibers are not exposed, it does not need to be removed.
Slightly damaged or loose asbestos can be re-wrapped rather than removed.
Asbestos should be handled by a certified asbestos abatement contractor (call Massachusetts Department of Labor and Workforce Development at 800-425-0004 for list of licensed abatement contractors).
DEP requires notification at least 10 business days prior to any asbestos removal activities. Call 617-292-5983 for more information.
All asbestos containing materials must be containerized, labeled and removed in accordance with DEP regulations (see 310 CMR 7.15). Asbestos must be adequately wetted so that fibers will not be released, and sealed in leak-tight, properly labeled containers. If bags are used, they should be thick plastic (6 mil) and double bagged. The same handling procedures are required for contaminated clothes and equipment. Container must then be labeled with an OSHA approved asbestos warning label.
Do not dust, sweep or vacuum particles suspected of containing asbestos.
Management Options
All asbestos materials must be disposed of in landfills permitted to receive asbestos. Currently there is only one such permitted landfill in Massachusetts: Chicopee Landfill (formerly 413-594-4172.
Asbestos-containing asphalt roofing materials and vinyl asbestos floor tiles that are not broken and are removed in accordance with DEP regulations can be disposed of in designated solid waste landfills.
Asbestos containing materials should never be disposed of in a combustion facility or compacted because fibers may be released to the surrounding area.
For more information, call DEP Boston at (617) 292-5983 or DEP regional asbestos contacts:
Northeast- John McCauley 978-661-7654
Southeast Joe Leary 508-946-2931
Central Gregg Levins 508-767-2768
Western Robert Schultz 413-784-1100x210
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| BATTERIES, AUTOMOTIVE |
Hazards
Automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn skin.
Handling
Handle batteries with acid resistant or leather gloves.
Keep sparks and flames away from batteries and don't smoke nearby. Never place metal objects on top of the battery because it can cause sparks. Remove rings, chains, and other metallic items before handling.
Keep batteries right side up. Carry in a non-metallic, leak proof container.
If battery leaks, neutralize any spilled acid with baking soda or calcium carbonate (lime). Flush area with water.
If acid comes in contact with skin, flush area with water immediately and seek medical attention, if burning continues.
Management Options
Do not throw in the trash. Automotive batteries are banned from landfills and combustion facilities in Massachusetts.
Most automotive battery retailers will accept used batteries when purchasing a new one.
Take to service station or repair garage that accepts automotive batteries. Many garages, auto salvage operations, and scrap metal yards will take automotive batteries, provided they are not broken or leaking. Some will pay approximately $1 each. Consult Recycling Services Directory for closest locations.
The household hazardous waste event in May accepts automotive batteries.
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| BATTERIES, HOUSEHOLD |
Hazards
Batteries burned in waste combustion facilities can release mercury or cadmium to the air and water, ultimately entering the food chain and posing health threats to people and the environment.
Description Of Battery Categories
1. Alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt): since 1994, most types contain no added mercury, and only contain trace amounts that are not hazardous. These batteries are marked "no added mercury" or have a green tree logo. Nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries (NiCads) exist in many sizes and shapes and are marked RECHARGEABLE. Some may be built into rechargeable appliances. NiCads contain cadmium, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested.
3. Button batteries (small, round, silver-colored, used in watches and hearing aids): Many button batteries contain mercury, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested.
4. Lithium batteries (AA, C, 9 volt and button; mainly used in computers and cameras). Lithium is reactive with water, and has caused serious fires.
Handling
Store in a secure, dry place out of the reach of children and pets. Button batteries can be swallowed because they are small and slippery.
When storing rechargeable batteries for collection, keep in a vented, nonmetal container. Rechargeable batteries should be placed individually in plastic bags before being stored together with other
rechargeables.
Management Options
1. Alkaline batteries: Domestically manufactured batteries made after 1994 no longer contain mercury and can be disposed of in the trash.
2. Nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries: Do NOT dispose of in the trash. Take to a retail collection location or at the Town Hall, 4th Floor DPW, Putterham Library Branch or Coolidge Corner Library Branch. The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) operates a collection program through selected retail stores and municipal recycling programs. There are currently over 400 collection sites in Massachusetts that are free to residents. Call 800-8-BATTERY for the nearest retail collection location.
3. Button batteries: Do NOT dispose of in the trash. Many stores selling watches or hearing aids will accept spent button batteries. Or hold for HHW collection
4. Lithium batteries: Hold for household hazardous waste collection day.
Global Recycling Technologies, the State-contracted mercury material-recycling firm, will accept mixed batteries from municipalities and businesses for recycling and/or safe management. They do not want batteries from individual households. Call 617-292-5704 for a written award notice or call Global at 781-341-6080.
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| DRIVEWAY SEALER |
Hazards
May contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, many of which are carcinogenic and can be absorbed through the skin.
Handling
Keep driveway sealer in closed containers.
Wear rubber gloves when handling.
Most driveway sealers are now latex products (water-based). Keep from freezing.
Management Options
Try to use up what you have, if product is usable, or donate to neighbor, paving contractor or other who may use it.
For surplus latex-based sealer, dry out in small amounts and place in the trash..
Dried latex driveway sealer can be thrown in trash with lid off.
For surplus oil-based, take to HHW collection, if accepted, or take to a commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| ELECTRONICS & CRTs |
Hazards
Electronic equipment, appliances with printed circuit boards, may contain lead from solder, mercury in switches, lithium batteries, and heavy metals in the printed circuit boards.
Cathode ray tubes (CRTs), including televisions and computer monitors, contain approximately 5 pounds of lead per unit.
These items do not pose any health and safety risk while intact, but may if dismantled.
Handling
Store and handle in a manner that minimizes breakage, especially of CRTs.
Do not attempt to dismantle CRTs without proper training; high voltage in the capacitor can discharge a lethal charge.
Management
CRTs/TV’s are banned from all waste disposal facilities. (For more
information on disposal ban or state contract collection, check
http://massachusetts.earth911.org for more info or call (617)
646-2700)
If item is still functioning and usable, try to donate to a charity or non-profit group who may be able to use it.
All other electronic devices, including computer processing units (CPUs), keyboards, stereos, VCRs and telephones may be accepted in scrap metal program or thrown in the trash if no electronics collection program is in place.
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| FIRE EXTINGUISHERS |
Hazards
Contents are under pressure and may explode when combined with other materials.
Very old fire extinguishers may contain carbon tetrachloride, a known carcinogen.
Handling
Two most common types include "dry chemical" (sodium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate) and carbon dioxide (C02) both of which are not hazardous.
To empty contents, discharge outside, away from children or pets. Monoammonium phosphate is an irritant to eyes and the respiratory tract. Wear goggles and particulate mask when discharging extinguisher.
Management Options
Dry chemical extinguishers
May be discharged in an area where an acidic fertilizer would be used such as around evergreens. Do not use on lawns.
When relieving the pressure (emptying) the container for disposal, review manufacturers' instructions, or, if unavailable, use the PASS technique
Pull the pin: this unlocks the operating lever and allows you to discharge the extinguisher. Some extinguishers may have other seals or tamper indicators.
Aim low: Point the extinguisher nozzle (or hose) at the base of the item.
Squeeze the lever above the handle: this discharges the extinguishing agent. Releasing the lever will stop the discharge. (Some extinguishers have a button instead of a lever.)
Sweep from side to side.
After pressure has been relieved (when nothing else comes out) remove the head from the container and place it with scrap metal or in the trash.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers
These extinguishers are refillable and should be refilled after each use. Check Yellow Pages under Fire Extinguishers - Recharging.
If the extinguisher becomes defective, drill holes in the cylinder after pressure has been relieved and then place in the trash.
Ask fire equipment companies in your area if they will accept used extinguishers (listed in the Yellow Pages).
Very old fire extinguishers
Consult fire department.
Take to HHW collection or commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| FLUORESCENT LAMPS |
Hazards
Fluorescent lamps, including energy saving compact fluorescents, contain mercury. When a lamp breaks, it releases mercury into the air, which is toxic to the human nervous system and can poison wildlife. Fishing in many Mass. water bodies is restricted due to mercury contamination.
When a lamp breaks, projected shards of glass may injure eyes or skin.
Handling
Store lamps in box or case to prevent breakage. Keep out of reach of children or pets.
Wear glasses when handling lamps.
Management Options
Save for the next household hazardous waste collection in May.
Check with large retailers in your community such as hardware or discount stores to see if they will accept fluorescent lamps for recycling.
Check with large institutions in your community such as schools, hospitals, colleges, and large businesses to see if they will accept fluorescent lamps. Many of these organizations, like large retailers, already handle fluorescent lamps for recycling and may be willing to accept lamps from community residents.
Do not dispose of in the trash, especially if your community's solid waste goes to a combustion facility.
Individual broken lamps should be placed in a sealed container and disposed of in the trash.
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| GASOLINE |
Hazards
Gasoline is highly flammable and can be explosive.
Gasoline contains benzene, a known carcinogen. Benzene and other toxic compounds found in gasoline vaporize readily and can be inhaled.
Handling
Store gasoline in a labeled container that is approved for gasoline storage. Do not fill up the container to the top; leave some air space to allow for expansion.
Store gasoline in a cool, dry place, away from any motor driven machine that could cause sparks, including washers and dryers. Keep out of direct sunlight.
Store at ground level, not on a shelf to minimize the danger of failing and spilling.
Never open or use near open flames or source of ignition such as sparks or cigarettes.
Always open gasoline containers and use gasoline in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, away from children and animals.
Do not store gasoline in a car trunk. There is a threat of explosion from heat and impact.
Do NOT dispose of down the drain, into surface water, or in the trash.
Do NOT mix with ANY other material, including antifreeze and used oil.
Management Options
Save for HHW collection or take to a commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| HOME MEDICAL WASTE |
Hazards
May infect other people who come in contact with trash.
Unwanted or expired medicines or pharmaceuticals could be harmful to children or adults. Unused pharmaceuticals found in the trash may be stolen for unregulated use.
Antibiotics poured down the drain can kill beneficial microbes and bacteria in septic systems.
Handling
Keep sharp objects such as needles, syringes, and lancelets in secure containers out of the reach of children. Do not use glass.
Management Options
By law, once a prescription has been issued, the pharmacy cannot take it back.
In sewered areas such as Brookline, unused pharmaceuticals and medicines, except cancer treatment drugs and radio actives, can be destabilized by dissolving in a small amount of water, then flushed in the toilet or placed in a sealed container in the trash.
In areas serviced by septic systems, wrap well and place in the trash.
Place all sharp objects such as needles, syringes, and lancets in rigid plastic or metal containers with a screw-on or secure lid. Detergent or soda bottles are good. Reinforce the lid with heavy-duty tape. Label container "NOT FOR RECYCLING" and dispose of in the trash.
Place disposable sheets, medical gloves and soiled bandages in plastic bags and securely fasten before you put them in the trash.
Check with your Visiting Nurse Association to see if there is a prescription drug collection or re-use program in your area.
For more information, call the Mass. Dept of Public Health, Division of Community Sanitation at (617) 727-2660.
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| MERCURY DEVICES & LIQUID MERCURY |
Hazards
Thermostats and switches contain several grams of mercury in fragile glass bulbs or ampoules. These ampoules (as well as mercury containing thermometers) may break, releasing droplets of toxic mercury.
Mercury is toxic to the human nervous system, as well as fish and animals. Mercury can enter the body either through skin absorption or through inhalation of mercury vapors. At room temperature, small beads of mercury will vaporize.
Handling of small spills (one small item)
Seal off room from other indoor spaces, ventilate to the outside.
Pick up mercury with an eyedropper or scoop up with paper, being careful to not touch with skin or clothing. Place mercury in a sealed glass or plastic container and label MERCURY.
Do not vacuum because it breaks up and heats droplets, facilitating vaporization. Once a vacuum cleaner has been used for a mercury spill, it will continue to release mercury into the air and is therefore safest to discard the contaminated machine rather than continue to use it.
Do not wash mercury into drains.
Do not wash mercury contaminated clothing or items in washing machine.
Handling of large spills (over 1 pound or 2 Tablespoons)
Immediately evacuate everyone from the room and close the doors. Turn off central heating or cooling system.
Call DEP at 617-556-1133 or 888-304-1133 (24 hours) to report the spill. Notify local health department and ask if they have a mercury spill kit. Otherwise, get names of professional clean-up firms.
Management options
The Town of Brookline DPW now accepts certain Mercury products
Call 617-646-2700 to set up an appointment to drop off your Mercury/Products. Bring Small amounts, thermostats, thermometers or any mercury containing devices. Mercury will not be accepted without a prior appointment.
Most hospitals will take small amounts of mercury from residents as a community service. Call your local hospital environmental services department to see if they will accept it.
Global Recycling Technologies in Stoughton, MA (781-341-6080) will accept elemental (liquid) mercury for recycling at no charge.
University science labs may accept elemental mercury for experiments.
Take mercury containing devices and mercury contaminated clothing to a HHW collection or commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| MOTOR OIL & OIL FILTERS |
Hazards
Oil is toxic to fish and other animals and plants. ~ One quart of oil can contaminate a million gallons of drinking water. ~ Undrained oil filters can contain up to 12 ounces of motor oil.
Handling
Collect oil in a clean container with screw cap, such as the original container or clean, labeled plastic jug. Do not mix oil with any other liquids. Cap container to keep out dirt and water.
Do NOT dispose of used oil in the trash, on the ground, down the drain, down a sewer drain, or by burning (except in permitted oil burners).
Clean up spills with kitty litter, vermiculite or rags, place in a bag and dispose of in the trash.
Oil filters: Puncture domed part of the oil filter with a sharp tool. Drain filters on a rack while they are "hot" for 12 hours; capture the oil for recycling as described above.
Management Options
Used Oil:
Return used oil for recycling to the store where you purchased it. Retailers are required to accept used oil for recycling (up to 2 gallons per person per day) if you have the purchase receipt.
Some service stations and repair garages that do not sell motor oil but burn the oil to heat their garage will take back used oil from residents.
Certain quick oil change chains, such as Valvoline, accept used oil. In Brookline, the center at 275 Boylston St. (Rte. 9)
Used Oil Hotline: (617) 556-1022. Use this number also to report retailers who are unwilling to accept used oil from customers who have a receipt.
Used Oil Filters:
Do NOT dispose of an undrained oil filter in the trash. Follow above handling instructions for draining used oil filters.
If no recycling program is available in your community, wrap the drained used oil filter in a plastic bag with absorbents such as a rag or kitty litter, and place in the trash.
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| MURIATIC ACID (HCI) |
Hazards
Muriatic or hydrochloric acid causes severe irritation or burns to skin and eyes.
Vapors may irritate respiratory tract.
Handling
Wear clothing that covers exposed skin areas. Use gauntlet-style acid resistant gloves and eye protection when working with acid. Use only in well ventilated areas. Always add acid to water ... never add water to acid Do not mix muriatic acid with any other chemicals.
Management Options
Do NOT dispose down the drain or in storm drains.
Do NOT dispose of in the trash: liquid wastes can leak in a trash truck and react with other chemicals.
Wastewater treatment facilities routinely use muriatic acid. Call your local facility to see if they will accept it.
To neutralize- In a large, 3-5 gallon plastic container, mix a one-pound box of sodium bicarbonate with a large quantity of water, mix, but leave some of the sodium bicarbonate visible at the bottom of the container. Slowly and carefully add the acid to the mixture stirring cautiously to avoid splashing. When the acid ceases to react (fizzing) and/or the sodium carbonate can be seen as a paste on the bottom of the container, the acid has been neutralized and can then be disposed down the drain. Should the acid not become neutralized, carefully add more sodium bicarbonate to the mixture.
Take to a HHW collection or commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| PESTICIDES |
Hazards
Pesticides and herbicides are designed to be toxic to pests and can harm birds, fish, pets and humans if misused.
If lawn chemicals, pesticides or herbicides are used in larger doses than recommended on the label, runoff can have an adverse effect on drinking water supplies and the environment.
Handling
Avoid buying more product than you need, as it is likely to become waste at a later date.
Store pesticides in original containers that are closed and labeled, in a secure area out of reach of children. and pets. Avoid storing pesticides in damp areas where containers may become moist or rusty. Pesticides should NOT be stored near food.
Follow label instructions strictly about where and how much to apply.
Do NOT put pesticides in the trash or down the drain.
Use rubber gloves when handling pesticides and use an appropriate cartridge mask if using products extensively.
Do NOT use or give away banned pesticides or pesticides that are no longer registered for use. EPA maintains a list of over 50 banned pesticides on the web at
http://www.epa.gov/ To find out whether a product is no longer registered for use in Massachusetts, contact the Mass. Pesticide Bureau at (617) 626-1700.
www.state.ma.us/dfa/pesticides
For questions on specific pesticides and environmentally friendly products and procedures, such as Integrated Pest Management, call the Mass Pesticide Bureau at (617) 626-1700.
For more information on identifying pesticides, their health hazards, and use and Management guidelines, call the National Pesticide Information Center at (800) 858-7378.
Management Options
Banned or Unregistered Pesticides:
If the pesticide is banned or no longer registered for use, save in original container for the next household hazardous waste collection day.
Registered Pesticides:
If the product is still registered for use, use up according to directions on the label or donate it to a friend or neighbor who can use it.
If you no longer have a use for the product and are not able to give it away, save it for a HHW collection day or take to a commercial hazardous waste facility.
Empty Containers:
Do NOT recycle or reuse pesticide containers.
Empty containers should be triple rinsed and then disposed of in the trash. Take the following steps to triple rinse a container:
1. Fill the empty pesticide container with cold water and use the rinse water as if it were full-strength product, in accordance with the label instructions.
2. Repeat this procedure two more times.
3. Do NOT pour rinse water down the drain.
4. Once the container is empty and triple rinsed, it should be wrapped in newspaper and disposed of in the trash.
Do NOT triple rinse containers for banned or unregistered pesticides. Save these for the next household hazardous waste collection day.
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| PHOTO CHEMICALS |
Hazards
Silver may be found in significant concentrations in fixer solution. Silver is a toxic contaminant that can disturb the biological action of a sewage treatment plant and harm aquatic life such as fish and other organisms.
Some fixer solutions are corrosive and can burn skin and eyes.
Some individuals are allergic to sulphites in photo processing solutions.
Handling
Protect eyes from splashes and skin from direct contact.
Store solutions in plastic buckets or bottles. Keep containers tightly closed when not used.
Clearly label containers with the contents.
Store materials in a secure area that is locked and out of reach of children.
Keep dark room ventilated when using photographic chemicals.
Management Options
Photographic waste liquids should NOT be poured down the drain if connected to a septic system.
In sewered areas, developer and rinse solutions may be poured down the drain.
Some local photo processing businesses may accept silver bearing fixer waste for recycling and Management.
Call DEP at 617-292-5898 for list of companies who reclaim photographic wastes.
Take spent fixer solutions to a HHW collection
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| POOL CHEMICALS |
Hazards
Sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in most pool chemicals, can irritate eyes and skin.
Sodium hypochlorite is highly reactive; can cause fire if in contact with organic materials.
Handling
Handle with rubber gloves.
Do not mix with ammonia or vinegar, as it will produce toxic chloramine gas.
Management Options
Sodium hypochlorite is the same chemical used in most water treatment facilities. Check with your facility to see if they will accept it.
Do not dispose of in the trash or down the drain.
Take to HHW collection day or commercial hazardous waste facility.
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| PROPANE TANKS |
Hazards
Tanks containing fuel under pressure may explode if tank integrity is altered, causing severe injury or death.
Tanks containing compressed gas may explode in waste-to-energy facilities.
Handling
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE VALVE FROM TANK. Special safety equipment is required to prevent explosion.
Tanks in good condition with old fittings may, be reused with adapter purchased at most propane pas dealers.
Use up all residual gas, for non-refillable (disposable) tanks
Do not leave valve open, because escaping gas is a fire hazard.
Management Options
Do NOT dispose of tanks containing gas in the trash. Check Yellow Page listings under "Gas - Propane" for company who will take tank for reuse.
Scrap metal yards may take empty tanks. Consult the Recycling Services Directory (call 617-236-7715 for a copy) or local phone directory. Very small EMPTY disposable tanks (1 liter) can be disposed of in the trash.
Yankee Gas and Oil of Middleton, MA will accept or pick up empty tanks for a fee. Call for scheduled collection routes in eastern Massachusetts at (508) 774-2634 or (800) 445-2760. Quality Propane of Canton (781) 828-7466 will accept used tanks for free.
Save for HHW collection.
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| SMOKE DETECTORS |
Hazards
Certain smoke detectors contain a radioactive sensing device, but the radioactivity is so low that it is considered harmless.
Handling
No special instructions on handling.
Management Options
Remove battery; follow battery disposal procedures. Observe label on detector to see if it contains radioactive material. If it does, send back to manufacturer or bring back to point of purchase. All others may be disposed of in the waste stream.
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