COEN Student Shop Waste Management SOP
Introduction
It is important that waste materials generated in the student shop are properly handled. Waste materials
will typically be in the form of waste stock from sawing and machining processes, disposal of absorbent
materials used in workpiece and shop cleaning and chemicals that are not longer needed.
Disposal of Waste Stock
While waste stock in many cases can be recycled, it is important to remember larger pieces can be saved
to be used on smaller projects. If you have leftover stock that is large enough for someone else to use,
bring it to the Shop Supervisor. If the aluminum or steel waste cannot be reused, place it in the
appropriate recycling bin. If you have plastic or wood waste, consult the Shop Supervisor.
Disposition of Absorbent Waste
The student shop uses disposable towels, rags, and other absorbent materials in the routine cleanup of
tools, parts and work areas. Also, other items such as disposable gloves are used in the shop. It is
important to ensure these items are properly contained after use until they are picked up from the shop
the shop for disposal.
The exact disposition of absorbent items that have been contaminated with shop chemicals will depend
on what they have been contaminated with and how much they have absorbed. Saturated materials are
typically treated as hazardous waste and must be segregated from non-hazardous waste while some
types of waste can go into the normal trash. Very lightly soiled absorbent materials may go into the
normal trash container. More heavily soiled absorbent materials must go into the covered, container for
flammable materials. Do not through normal trash into this container, as it will add to the hazardous
waste disposal expenses of the College. When in doubt, consult with the Shop Supervisor or Safety
Liaison.
Disposition of Solvents and Other Chemical Wastes
Normally, solvents and other chemical wastes will be treated as hazardous waste and segregated from
other wastes. A satellite accumulation area is available nearby for any chemical waste no longer needed
by the shop. Please consult with the Shop Supervisor or Safety Liaison if you have any of these wastes.
12/05/2011