Toxic Waste At SFSU

Back to Types of Waste Disposals At SFSU

Toxic wastes are harmful or fatal when ingested or absorbed and pose a risk to human health and the environment. When toxic wastes are disposed of, the toxic constituents may leach from the waste and pollute ground water and soils. At SFSU, toxic waste is generated primarily from research, teaching laboratories, and maintenance activities.


Characteristics of Toxic Waste:

  • When tested, the regulated components in the waste meet or exceed contamination concentration limits.
  • Concentration of hazardous components exceed regulated toxicity levels.
  • Requires special handling, labeling, and disposal to prevent environmental contamination.
  • Regulated under federal and state hazardous waste laws.

Toxic Waste Information

  • Laboratory solvents (e.g., acetone, methanol).
  • Heavy metal-containing waste (e.g., mercury, lead compounds).
  • Pesticides and herbicides.
  • Toxic cleaning agents and degreasers.
  • Paint thinners, varnishes, and certain adhesives

Environmental Health & Safety: Dipak Janda (Dk) 

Email: Dipakjanda@sfsu.edu

Telephone: (415)-542-8046

  • Compatible, Sealable Containers: Designed for specific waste types (e.g., acid-resistant
    containers for corrosives).
  • DOT-Compliant Drums or Bottles: For bulk waste accumulation.
  • Secondary Containment: Trays or bins to prevent spills during handling or storage.

Containers must be labeled with:

  • “Hazardous Waste” or “Toxic Waste.”
  • Chemical name(s) and hazard classifications.
  • Date of accumulation and generator information.
  • 90 days for satellite accumulation areas (SAAs) under regulatory guidelines.
  • Waste must be transferred to a central storage area before the deadline to comply with
    regulations

Trained personnel, such as laboratory staff or Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) staff, transfer waste to the Hazardous Waste Storage Facility on campus. The waste is stored securely in a designated hazardous waste storage area, separated by waste
type and compatibility

Toxic waste is picked up monthly or more frequently depending on the volume generated and regulatory requirements.

  • The waste is transported by a licensed hazardous waste disposal vendor.
  • It is treated through methods such as incineration, chemical neutralization, or stabilization.
  • Any residues or non-recyclable materials are sent to hazardous waste landfills for final disposal.

 

Contact Information

For further information about the Toxic Waste Management Program at SFSU or how you can get involved, please contact:

Environmental Compliance Specialist

Dipak Janda (Dk)