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Guidelines for Drain Disposal of Chemicals at University of California, Berkeley
2008


EMERGENCY SPILL REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS:

If a chemical spill enters a sink or floor drain, immediately notify the Office of Environment, Health & Safety (642-3073) during business hours 8:00 AM—5:00 PM. After business hours, immediately notify UC Police Department (642-6760) and ask them to contact the EH&S off-hours emergency responder. EH&S will notify EBMUD of the discharge.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. OVERVIEW OF DRAIN DISPOSAL 3. OVERVIEW OF DRAIN DISPOSAL OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS

4. CHARACTERISTICS OF HAZARDOUS WASTE

5. GENERAL RULES FOR SANITARY DRAIN DISPOSAL

6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR LABORATORY DRAIN DISPOSAL

7. SPECIFIC GUDILINES FOR DRAIN DISPOSAL IN SHOPS, STUDIOS, KITCHENS, JANITORIAL AREAS, GROUNDS,
    ATHLETICS OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION SITES

8. ACCIDENTAL SPILL PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION


APPENDICES:

Appendix I: Class A Chemicals (little or no hazard)

Appendix II: Class B Chemicals (moderate hazard)

Appendix III: Class C Chemicals (high hazard)

Appendix IV: Additional Guidance on the Disposal of Radioactive Materials (all hazards)

Appendix V: Additional Guidance on the Determination of Solubility

Appendix VI: Decision Making Tree

REFERENCES AND EH&S TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Guidelines for Drain Disposal of Chemicals
at University of California, Berkeley


1. INTRODUCTION

Disposal of chemicals into the sanitary sewer is regulated by federal and state laws and regulations, by the local East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Ordinance and by the EBMUD Wastewater Discharge Permit issued to the campus. These laws and regulations prohibit any drain disposal of hazardous wastes and limit the allowable wastewater concentration of a number of specific substances. The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is committed to protection of the local community and the environment through strict compliance with these laws and regulations. Discharge of hazardous chemical wastes into the campus sanitary sewer system is prohibited by campus policy (Water Protection Policy, http://campuspol.chance.berkeley.edu/policies/waterprotection.pdf).

The range of substances that can be considered hazardous waste is enormous. Indeed, almost any substance is a hazardous waste if it is disposed of in large quantities or in high concentrations. Federal and California laws permit laboratories to drain dispose small amounts of some chemicals in quantities that do not pose a hazard to human health or the environment.

The following guidelines for drain disposal of chemicals at UC Berkeley were developed by the Environmental Management Committee (EMC) together with the Office of Environment Health & Safety (EH&S). These guidelines are based on state law, EBMUD regulations and permits, and on procedures set forth in the National Research Council (NRC) publication "Prudent Practices for Disposal of Chemicals from Laboratories," National Academy Press, Washington D.C., 1983 (Reference 1) and "Prudent Practices for Handling of Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories," National Academy Press, Washington D.C., 1981 (Reference 2). Drain disposal is permitted by campus policy only within the guidelines set forth in this document.

Disposal of radioactive materials into the sanitary sewer is also regulated by federal and state laws and regulations. These limit both the total amount and the concentration of radioactive materials that may be disposed to the drain. Additionally, solubility limits are also specified. UC Berkeley is committed to protection of the local community and the environment through strict compliance with these laws and regulations. Discharge of radioactive materials into the campus sanitary sewer system is authorized by application for and issuance of a Radiation Use Authorization (RUA). The RUA specifies what materials may be discharged to the drain and the quantity of these materials that can be discharged and the rate of discharge.

Guidelines for drain disposal of radioactive materials at UC Berkeley were developed by the Radiation Safety Committee (RSC), the EMC, and EH&S.

These guidelines were revised in 2006 - 2007 to consolidate all campus operations that discharge to sanitary sewers including maintenance, custodial, and food service operations, and to include all types of wastes; nuclear, biological, radioactive, and chemical.  In addition, this revision includes references to several new laws and regulations.  This version of the Drain Disposal Guidelines replaces any previous versions.

Notice:
EBMUD regularly monitors campus wastewater. Failure to comply with wastewater discharge regulations could lead to fines of up to $25,000 per day and/or restrictions on University water use.

 

2. OVERVIEW OF DRAIN DISPOSAL OF CHEMICALS

Campus interior drains (and several outside drains) are connected to sanitary sewer systems, and their effluent drains to the EBMUD water pollution control plant. Chemicals and some food wastes may be prohibited from drain disposal for a variety of reasons.

Potential Problems at EBMUD Water Pollution Control Plant:

Chemicals and some food wastes may be prohibited from disposal to the water pollution control plant because they:
  • interfere with the biological processes of sewage treatment,
  • are not digested in the sewage treatment process, pass through treatment and are released as pollutants to the air,
  • are released to San Francisco Bay where they are toxic to aquatic organisms or where they accumulate in Bay sediments,
  • concentrate in the sewage treatment sludge, compromising EBMUD's ability to use the sludge for beneficial purposes,
  • cause blockages in sewers that result in sewage backing up into buildings or discharges from manholes where raw sewage could come into contact with humans and the environment.

UC Berkeley policies governing drain disposal of chemicals and certain food wastes to campus sewers have specifically been formulated to comply with these prohibitions.

In addition, Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) air toxics regulations require EBMUD to reduce their release of reactive organic gases (ozone precursors) and other toxic air contaminants. One strategy EBMUD uses to reduce air emissions from the water pollution control plant is source control, limiting the release of chemicals through permit restrictions. For example, for the campus EBMUD has set very low limits for discharge of chlorinated hydrocarbons to the wastewater, which are eventually released as toxic air contaminants from the water pollution control plant.



Potential Problems in Drains and Campus Sewers:

Chemicals and some food wastes may be prohibited from disposal to laboratory drains because they can:
  • create hazards of fire, explosion, or local air pollution or stench,
  • react with other chemicals to form hazardous gases,
  • corrode lab and building plumbing,
  • leak out of old pipes as liquid to pollute campus grounds,
  • escape from sewer pipes as air pollutants,
  • expose plumbers to contact or inhalation hazards.

Campus drains are generally interconnected; substances that go down one sink drain may well come up as a vapor in another. Sinks are usually communal property, and there is a very real hazard of chemicals from two sources contacting one another; the sulfide poured into one drain may contact the acid poured into another with unpleasant consequences for all in the building.

Much of the campus plumbing infrastructure is old and may not be resistant to chemicals placed into the drains. The cost of replacing corroded plumbing can easily exceed the cost of disposal of corrosive chemicals as hazardous waste.

 

3. OVERVIEW OF DRAIN DISPOSAL OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS

Radioactive materials may only be disposed to campus interior drains connected to sanitary sewer system.

Potential Problems at EBMUD Water Pollution Control Plant:

Radioactive materials could “settle out” or concentrate in the plant. UC Berkeley avoids this problem by prohibiting the disposal of materials that can re-concentrate in the system.

Potential Problems in Drains and Campus Sewers:

Radioactive materials could “settle out” or concentrate in the sewer lines. Again, this is avoided by prohibiting the disposal of materials that can re-concentrate in the system.

 

4. CHARACTERISTICS OF HAZARDOUS WASTES

Hazardous wastes are prohibited from discharge. Chemical wastes are hazardous if they are:

  • corrosive
  • reactive
  • ignitable
  • moderately or highly toxic

Drain Disposal of Mixed Wastes (those that are radioactive and are a chemical hazard)

Waste that contains both a radioactive constituent and a chemical of which either is prohibited from drain disposal is called a “mixed waste.” Disposal of mixed waste into the campus sewer system is prohibited. Exceptions to this policy may be granted by case by case action of the campus RSC and the EMC. Production of mixed waste is to be avoided or minimized. When mixed waste is generated, store it in a safe and protected location. Contact EH&S (642-3073) for disposal of mixed waste.

Drain Disposal of Biohazardous Wastes

Disposal of infectious or biohazardous waste, as defined by the California Department of Health Services (CDHS), into the campus sewer system is prohibited. Infectious or biohazardous waste must be handled, stored, treated, and disposed of in accordance with the California Medical Waste Management Act and requirements of Biological Use Authorizations (BUAs).

 

5. GENERAL RULES FOR SANITARY DRAIN DISPOSAL

A. General Rules for Sanitary Drain Disposal of Non-Radioactive Materials

The following general rules apply to drain disposal of chemicals to sanitary sewers at UC Berkeley*. Disposal of chemicals is limited to occasional disposal of small amounts of chemicals, as detailed in the guidelines below. Large scale or continuous disposal of any chemical is permitted only with the written approval of the EMC. (EH&S should be contacted to obtain this approval.)

a. Only water-soluble substances** may be disposed of in sinks, toilets, and floor drains. Solutions should be flushed down the drain with an appropriate amount of water. (Residue animal or vegetable fats and oils generated as a result of normal cleaning activities are an exception to the solubility rule. However, significant amounts of these oils and fats (approximately more than a pint) can cause clogging in interior drains and so should be collected and disposed of appropriately (see Appendix V for additional guidance on solubility).

(Note**:A compound is considered water-soluble if it dissolves to the extent of at least 3%. In general, a soluble substance that contains a substance that is not soluble should not be poured down the drain. However, if the water-insoluble material comprises less than about 2% of the mixture, drain disposal is usually acceptable because the small quantity of water-insoluble material will be well dispersed in the aqueous effluent.)

b. Only acid and basic solutions in the range of pH 5-10 may be disposed of in the sink.

c. Highly toxic, malodorous, or lachrymatory (that is, those that cause strong eye irritation) chemicals shall not be disposed of down the drain.

d. Old, unwanted, or waste chemicals and products must not be poured down the drain as a means of disposal. These materials must be picked up by EH&S personnel. * Adapted from Reference 2, pp 231-232.

** Adapted from Reference 1, pp 52-53.

B. General Rules For Sanitary Drain Disposal of Radioactive Materials

The following general rules apply to drain disposal of radioactive materials to sanitary sewers at UC Berkeley. Disposal of radioactive materials is limited to occasional disposal of small amounts as detailed in the user-specific permit (the RUA) that both authorizes the work and may permit sewer disposal of radioactive materials. In addition to meeting the requirements placed on the disposal of radioactive materials to the sewer, the materials must also meet the requirements for disposal of the associated chemicals. The first requirement is to assure that any chemicals associated with the radioactive materials would be allowed to be disposed to the sanitary sewer. If a material cannot be drain disposed based on the chemical nature of the material it can only be disposed of by specific written pre-approval. Normally, this pre-approval will come from the RSC and the EMC. EH&S will coordinate these special reviews. Please contact EH&S so that specific pre-approval can be sought and approved or rejected.

  1. Just as with chemicals, only water-soluble substances** may be disposed of in sinks, toilets, and floor drains.

  2. Solutions must be flushed down the drain with an appropriate amount of water.

  3. Radioactive material to be released must qualify as being "readily soluble” in water. EH&S will work with you to assure that your wastes are “readily soluble.” (See Appendix V)

 

6. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR LABORATORY DRAIN DISPOSAL

We divide chemicals into three groups with regard to drain disposal in laboratories: (1) Class A.
Class A includes chemicals that pose little or no hazard in dilute aqueous solution. These aqueous solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain in quantities of up to about 100 g of solute per laboratory per day (e.g. 100 g of ethanol in one liter of water).

(2) Class B.
Class B includes chemicals of moderate hazard in dilute aqueous solution. These aqueous solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain with excess water in quantities no greater than 1 g of solute per laboratory per day.

(3) Class C.
Class C includes chemicals that may not be drain disposed in any amount except by written approval of the EMC or their delegate. Normally requests for exceptions are made to EH&S  Environment, Health and Safety who obtains any necessary additional information and coordinates review by the Committee(s).


Class A chemicals include many simple organic and inorganic compounds, as well as common inorganic chemicals. Included in Class A are most biological metabolites and nontoxic cellular constituents (proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, soluble fats, and their precursors and catabolites). A partial list of Class A chemicals, derived from State regulations and Appendix K of Reference 2, is provided below in Appendix I.

Class B chemicals include all of the chemicals listed as toxic (T) in the California Code of Regulations Section 22-66261.30 et. seq. that are water soluble, except for those listed as Class A chemicals in Appendix I or Class C chemicals in Appendix III. Class B chemicals also include all inorganic salts listed in reference 2 as "high hazard" in tables 6.1 and 6.2. A partial list of Class B chemicals appears in Appendix II.

Class C chemicals include all chemicals that are not soluble as defined above, chemicals that cause unacceptable concentrations of offensive, toxic or explosive vapors, and chemicals that are toxic or reactive at concentrations below 1 ppm in aqueous solution. Class C chemicals include the chemicals identified in the Main Campus EBMUD Wastewater Discharge Permit "Priority Pollutant Management Plan" Compliance Requirement (Federal Clean Water Act priority pollutants listed in 40 CFR Part 122 Appendix D, Tables II and III). A partial list of Class C chemicals appears in Appendix III.

 

7. SPECIFIC DRAIN DISPOSAL GUIDELINES FOR SHOPS, STUDIOS, KITCHENS, JANITORIAL AREAS, GROUNDS, ATHLETICS OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS, AND CONSTRUCTION SITES

Drain Disposable Chemicals and Process Wastewater

Chemicals and wastewater of little or no hazard in dilute solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain in quantities that would be expected in normal operations (for example, latex paint brush wash-water or a bucket of mop water). Large quantity wastewater discharges from physical plant equipment can be drain disposed if approved by EBMUD (for example, cooling tower discharges and boiler blow-down).

Following are examples of drain disposable chemicals and process wastewater for shops, physical plant operations, kitchens, janitorial, grounds, and athletic operations.
  • Latex paint wash-water from the rinsing of brushes, rollers, sprayers, and other water base painting equipment washing.

  • Drywall compound wash-water.

  • Commercially available custodial and cleaning products such as soaps and detergents if they are used in accordance with the manufacturer instructions.

  • Super-chlorinated water used to disinfect new plumbing.

  • Photographic developer solutions, neutralized (does not include used fixer solutions).

  • Garbage truck and dumpster wash-out.

  • Building wash-water that is managed in accordance with the Procedures for Wastewater Management from UC Berkeley Building Washing and Maintenance Operations.


    • Hazardous Chemicals That Are Prohibited From Drain Disposal

    The following are prohibited from drain disposal.

    ORGANIC CHEMICALS

    • All alkanes and water-insoluble hydrocarbons, including:
      • Mineral spirits
      Stoddard solvent
      Paint stripper (e.g., Jasco)
      Petroleum hydrocarbons
      Naptha
      Solvent based adhesives
    • All chlorinated and brominated hydrocarbons solvents, including:
      • Methylene chloride (dichloromethane)
      Tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene)
      Trichloroethane
      Trichloroethylene
    • Chlorofluorocarbons (freons)

    • Concentrated acids and bases (pH <5 or >10)

    • Latex paint (other than wash-water)

    • Oil and grease (e.g., crankcase oil, lube oil, grease (all kinds), vegetable oil, shortening)

    • Oil based paint

    • Oil based paint solvents

    • PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls)

    • EPA Priority Pollutants (See Appendix C)

     

    8. ACCIDENTAL SPILL PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION

    UC Berkeley's EBMUD Wastewater Discharge Permit requires that the campus maintain a Slug Discharge* Prevention and Contingency (SDPC) Plan. The purpose of this SDPC Plan is to eliminate or minimize the potential for an accidental, or slug discharge of any pollutant including laboratory, construction, maintenance, and photoprocessing chemicals which could interfere with EBMUD's Wastewater Treatment Plant.

    *Definition of a Slug Discharge
    For the purposes of this plan, a slug discharge means any discharge of a non-routine, episodic nature, including but not limited to:
    • an accidental spill or a non-customary batch discharge,
    • discharges that exceed EBMUD Ordinance 311 limitations,
    • hazardous waste discharges, and
    • discharges that are not allowed by these Guidelines for Drain Disposal of Chemicals at UC Berkeley

    Due to the diverse nature of laboratory, shop, construction, and facility operations that use, store, and handle chemicals, the SDPC Plan does not contain specific prevention practices for all campus operations. General best management practices (BMPs) for spill prevention applicable to all chemical use, handling, and storage operations are presented below. These spill prevention measures should be incorporated as standard operating procedures for chemical use operations.

    Measures for containing toxic organic and inorganic pollutants, including solvents, from laboratories, shops, construction and facilities operations:

    General best management practices for slug discharge prevention:

    • avoid open container use of chemicals near sinks and floor drains,
    • where open container use of chemicals near sinks and floor drains is unavoidable, cap or plug sinks and drains during chemical use,
    • store chemicals in tubs, cabinets, bermed or diked areas or in other secondary containment,
    • avoid storing excess quantities of chemicals - order only what you need and dispose of unwanted or expired chemicals through EH&S,
    • secure storage cabinets and shelves to prevent tipping or falling,
    • use proper container restraints,
    • maintain spill containment and clean-up materials nearby, and
    • follow good housekeeping practices - never use sinks to store chemicals.
    Inspection and maintenance of storage areas:
    All chemical use and storage areas (for example, storerooms) should be inspected for BMP implementation on a regular basis. Storerooms that contain floor drains routed to the sanitary sewer should have the floor drains plugged at all times, except when floor drains are needed (for example, when floors are mopped). Storerooms should use removable drain plugs in such cases.
    Material handling and transfer:
    When chemicals are transferred within buildings or between buildings, they should be placed in secondary containers which can contain over 100% of the chemical, should the primary container break.
    Loading and unloading operations:
    Most exterior loading and unloading locations (loading docks) drain to the storm drain system, and storm water pollution prevention BMPs should be followed. Where locations drain to the sanitary sewer, floor drains should be plugged at all times, except when floor drains are needed (for example, when floors are mopped). Temporary drain plugs should be used during time when floor drains are not in use.
    Control of site runoff:
    Most site runoff drains to the storm drain system, and storm water pollution prevention BMPs should be followed for any operation that has the potential for discharging a pollutant to the storm drain. Prior to initiating any operation, determine the location and drainage route of all drains. Storm water pollution prevention or slug discharge BMPs should be implemented as necessary. For more information regarding storm water pollution prevention BMPs, contact EH&S at 642-3073.
    Worker training:
    All laboratory, photoprocessing, shop, construction, and facility workers in operations that could cause a slug discharge must be trained in slug discharge prevention and spill reporting. This is accomplished through the Chemical Hygiene Plan and Worker Right-to-Know training and other training implemented by Department Safety Coordinators (DSCs). Drain disposal restrictions and spill discharge notification requirements are also posted through the use of sink stickers, which are required for laboratory, shop, and facility chemical use areas.

    If prohibited chemicals or substances enter a sink or drain, immediately notify the Office of EH&S at 642-3073 during business hours or, after hours and weekends, call the University Police Department dispatch by dialing 643-6760 or 911 from a regular phone or 642-3333 from a cell phone.

    Upon receiving notification of a chemical release, the Office of EH&S will make the appropriate agency and Campus contacts.

     

    Appendix I - Class A

    Class A chemicals are of little or no hazard in dilute aqueous solution. These are aqueous solutions suitable for disposal down the drain with in quantities of up to about 100 g of solute per laboratory per day (e.g. 100 g of ethanol in one liter of water)

    Class A chemicals include many simple organic and inorganic compounds, as well as common inorganic chemicals. This includes most normal biological metabolites and nontoxic cellular constituents (proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, soluble fats, and their precursors and catabolites).

    This list is illustrative, but cannot include all of the chemicals that do or could fall into Class A; therefore, if you have a question as to the classification of a material contact EH&S.

    1. ORGANIC CHEMICALS
    Normal biological metabolites and nontoxic cellular constituents (proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, soluble fats, and their precursors and catabolites).

    Alcohols
    alkanols with fewer than 5 atoms
    alkanediols with fewer than 8 atoms
    sugars and sugar alcohols
    alkoxyalkanols with fewer than 7 carbon atoms
    butanol, 1-(n-butyl alcohol)
    butanol, 2- (sec-butyl alcohol)
    ethanol
    ethanol, 2-(2-butoxyethoxy)
    ethylene glycol
    glycerol
    methanol
    methyl 1-propanol, 2-(isobutyl alcohol)
    methyl 2-butanol, 2-(t-amyl alcohol)
    methyl 2-propanol, 2-(tert-butyl alcohol)
    propanol, 1-(n-propyl alcohol)
    propanol, 2-(isopropyl alcohol)

    Aldehydes

    aliphatic aldehydes with fewer than 5 carbon atoms
    acetaldehyde
    butyraldehyde
    formaldehyde
    gluteraldehyde
    propionaldehyde

    Amides

    RCONH2 and RCONHR with fewer than 5 carbon atoms
    RCONR2 with fewer than 11 carbon atoms
    formamide
    propionamide
    methylpropionamide, N-
    butanamide

    Amines**

    aliphatic amines with fewer than 7 carbon atoms
    aliphatic diamines with fewer than 7 carbon atoms
    benzylamine
    butylamine, n-
    dimethylamine
    dipropylamine
    propylamine
    pyridine

    Carboxylic Acids**

    alkanoic acids with fewer than 6 carbon atoms
    alkanedioic acids with fewer than 6 carbon atoms
    hydroxyalkanoic acids with fewer than 6 carbon atoms
    aminoalkanoic acids with fewer than 7 carbon atoms
    ammonium, sodium, and potassium salts of the above acid classes with fewer than 21 carbon atoms
    acetic acid
    citric acid
    oxalic acid
    potassium binoxalate
    propanoic acid
    formic acid
    sodium acetate
    sodium citrate

    ** Those organic compounds with a disagreeable odor, such as dimethylamine, 1,4 butanediamine, butyric acids and valeric acids, should be neutralized, and the resulting salt solutions flushed down the drain, diluted with at least 1000 volumes of water.

    Esters

    esters with fewer than 5 carbon atoms
    ethyl acetate
    isopropyl acetate
    methyl acetate
    methyl formate
    methyl propionate
    propyl formate, n-

    Ethers

    dioxane, 1,4-
    dioxolane
    tetrahydrofuran

    Ketones

    ketones with fewer than 6 carbon atoms
    acetone (2-propanone)
    cyclohexanone
    methyl ethyl ketone (2-butanone)
    methyl isobutyl ketone
    pentanone, 2-

    Nitriles

    acetonitrile
    propionitrile

    Sulfonic Acids

    sodium or potassium salts of most are acceptable


    2. INORGANIC CHEMICALS

    This list comprises water-soluble compounds of low toxicity hazard cations and anions. Compounds of any of these ions must be in the range of pH 5 - 10.

    Cations: Anions:
    aluminum Al3+
    ammonium NH4+
    calcium Ca2+
    cesium Cs+
    hydrogen H+
    lithium Li+
    magnesium Mg2+
    potassium K+
    sodium Na+
    strontium Sr2+
    tin Sn2+
    titanium Ti3+, Ti4+
    zirconium Zr2+    		 borate (BO33-, B4O72-)
    bromide (Br-)
    carbonate (CO32-)
    chloride (Cl-)
    bisulfite (HSO3-)
    hydroxide (OH-)
    oxide (O2-)
    iodide (I-)
    nitrate (NO3-)
    phosphate (PO43-)
    sulfate (SO42-)

    3. PROPRIETARY PRODUCTS

    Bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution)

    Detergents (alkanesulfonates)

    Photographic solutions- black and white developers and developer replenishers (No Fixers)

    Household ammonia


    Alphabetical Lists of Commonly Used Class A Chemicals

    CLASS A Organic CLASS A Inorganic
    acetaldehyde
    acetic acid
    acetone (2-propanone)
    acetonitrile
    benzylamine
    butanamide
    butanol, 1-(n-butyl alcohol)
    butanol, 2-(sec-butyl alcohol)
    butylamine, n-
    butyraldehyde
    citric acid
    cyclohexanone
    dimethylamine
    dioxane, 1,4-
    dioxolane
    dipropylamine
    ethanol
    ethanol, 2-(2-butoxyethoxy)
    ethyl acetate
    ethylene glycol
    formaldehyde
    formamide
    formic acid
    gluteraldehyde
    glycerol
    isopropyl acetate
    methanol
    methyl 1-propanol, 2-(isobutyl alcohol)
    methyl 2- butanol, 2-(t-amyl alcohol)
    methyl 2-propanol, 2-(tert-butyl alcohol)
    methyl acetate
    methyl ethyl ketone (2-butanone)
    methyl formate
    methyl isobutyl ketone
    methylpropionamide, N-
    methyl propionate
    oxalic acid
    pentanone, 2-
    potassium binoxalate
    propanoic acid
    propanol, 1-(n-propyl alcohol)
    propanol, 2-(isopropyl alcohol)
    propionaldehyde
    propionamide
    propionitrile
    propyl formate, n-
    propylamine
    pyridine
    sodium acetate
    sodium citrate
    tetrahydrofuran     		ammonium chloride
    ammonium nitrate
    ammonium sulfate
    ammonium thiosulfate
    boric acid
    calcium carbonate
    calcium chloride
    calcium hydroxide
    calcium nitrate
    calcium sulfate
    cesium chloride
    hydrochloric acid (neutralized)
    lithium bromide
    lithium chloride
    magnesium chloride
    magnesium oxide
    magnesium sulfate
    nitric acid (neutralized)
    perchloric acid (neutralized)
    phosphoric acid (neutralized)
    Plaster of Paris (calcium sulfate)
    potassium bicarbonate
    potassium bromide
    potassium carbonate
    potassium chloride
    potassium iodide
    potassium nitrate
    potassium phosphate
    potassium sulfate
    sodium bicarbonate
    sodium borate
    sodium carbonate
    sodium chloride
    sodium hydroxide (neutralized)
    sodium iodide
    sodium molybdate
    sodium nitrate
    sodium phosphate
    sodium sulfate
    sodium sulfite
    sodium thiosulfate
    sulfuric acid (neutralized)

     

    Appendix II - Class B

    Class B chemicals of moderate hazard in dilute aqueous solutions. These aqueous solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain with excess water in quantities no greater than 1 gram of solute per laboratory per day. The final concentration in wastewater must not exceed 1 ppm after flushing with an appropriate amount of water.

    This list is illustrative, but cannot include all of the chemicals that do or could fall into Class B; therefore, if you have a question as to the classification of a material, contact EH&S.

    1. ORGANIC CHEMICALS

    Commonly used Class B organic chemicals:

    acrylamide
    trypan blue

    2. INORGANIC CHEMICALS

    Cations of the following metals:
    barium
    cobalt
    gallium
    germanium
    hafnium
    indium
    iridium
    iron
    manganese
    molybdate
    osmium
    platinum
    rhenium
    rhodium
    ruthenium
    tellurium
    tungsten
    vanadium    		 Anions and neutral compounds:
    aluminum hydride (AlH4)
    amide (NH2-)
    azide (N3-)
    borohydride (BH4-)
    bromate (BrO3-)
    chlorate (ClO3-)
    fluoride (F-)
    hydride (H-)
    hydroperoxide (O2H-)
    hydrosulfide (SH-)
    hypochlorite (OCl-)
    iodate (IO3-)
    nitrite (NO2-)
    perchlorate (ClO4-)
    permanganate (MnO4-)
    peroxide (O22-)
    persulfate (S2O82-)
    sulfide (S2-)

     

    Appendix III - Class C

    Class C chemicals are ones that may not be drain disposed in any amount except by written approval of the EMC (or in some cases the RSC). Contact EH&S for assistance in obtaining this approval.

    This list is illustrative, but can not include all of the chemicals that do or could fall into Class C; therefore, if you have a question as to the classification of a material contact EH&S.

    1. ORGANIC CHEMICALS

    All alkanes and water-insoluble hydrocarbons.
    All chlorinated and brominated hydrocarbons.
    EPA Priority Pollutants (see list below).
    Specific commonly used Class C organic chemicals:
    benzene
    cyclohexane
    ethyl ether
    ethidium bromide
    hexane
    phenol and phenolic compounds
    toluene
    xylene
    ortho-phthalaldehyde (Cidex-OPA)

    chlorinated hydrocarbons
    chloroform
    carbon tetrachloride
    methylene chloride (dichloromethane)
    PCBs
    tetrachloroethylene
    trichloroethane
    trichloroethylene
    chlorofluorocarbons (freons, halons)

    2. INORGANIC CHEMICALS

    Chemicals containing the following metals and compounds:

    antimony
    arsenic (including arsenate [AsO3-, AsO43-] and arsenite [AsO2-])
    beryllium
    cadmium
    chromium (including chromate and dichromate)
    copper
    cyanides, cyanates (OCN-), thiocyanates (SCN-)
    lead
    mercury
    nickel
    selenium
    silver, including photographic fixer
    thallium
    zinc     Specific commonly used Class C inorganic chemicals:sodium azide
    sodium cyanide
    chromium glassware cleaners - chromerge, chromium trioxide/sulfuric acid solutions
    "biodegradable" liquid scintillation cocktails
    3. EPA PRIORITY POLLUTANTS (40 CFR Part 122 Appendix D, Tables II and III)

    TABLE II - ORGANIC TOXIC POLLUTANTS IN EACH OF FOUR FRACTIONS IN ANALYSIS BY
    GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY/MASS SPECTROSCOPY (GS/MS)
    Volatiles
    1V acrolein
    2V acrylonitrile
    3V benzene
    5V bromoform
    6V carbon tetrachloride
    7V chlorobenzene
    8V chlorodibromomethane
    9V chloroethane
    10V 2-chloroethylvinyl ether
    11V chloroform
    12V dichlorobromomethane
    14V 1,1-dichloroethane
    15V 1,2-dichloroethane
    16V 1,1-dichloroethylene
    17V 1,2-dichloropropane
    18V 1,3-dichloropropylene
    19V ethylbenzene
    20V methyl bromide
    21V methyl chloride
    22V methylene chloride
    23V 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane
    24V tetrachloroethylene
    25V toluene
    26V 1,2-trans-dichloroethylene
    27V 1,1,1-trichloroethane
    28V 1,1,2-trichloroethane
    29V trichloroethylene
    31V vinyl chloride
    Acid Compounds
    1A 2-chlorophenol
    2A 2,4-dichlorophenol
    3A 2,4-dimethylphenol
    4A 4,6-dinitro-o-cresol
    5A 2,4-dinitrophenol
    6A 2-nitrophenol
    7A 4-nitrophenol
    8A p-chloro-m-cresol
    9A pentachlorophenol
    10A phenol
    11A 2,4,6-trichlorophenol     		Base/Neutral
    1B acenaphthene
    2B acenaphthylene
    3B anthracene
    4B benzidine
    5B benzo(a)anthracene
    6B benzo(a)pyrene
    7B 3,4-benzofluoranthene
    8B benzo(ghi)perylene
    9B benzo(k)fluoranthene
    10B bis(2-chloroethoxy)methane
    11B bis(2-chloroethyl)ether
    12B bis(2-chloroisopropyl)ether
    13B bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
    14B 4-bromophenyl phenyl ether
    15B butylbenzyl phthalate
    16B 2-chloronaphthalene
    17B 4-chlorophenyl phenyl ether
    18B chrysene
    19B dibenzo(a, h)anthracene
    20B 1,2-dichlorobenzene
    21B 1,3-dichlorobenzene
    22B 1,4-dichlorobenzene
    23B 3,3'-dichlorobenzidine
    24B diethyl phthalate
    25B dimethyl phthalate
    26B di-n-butyl phthalate
    27B 2,4-dinitrotoluene
    28B 2,6-dinitrotoluene
    29B di-n-octyl phthalate
    30B 1,2-diphenylhydrazine
    (as azobenzene)
    31B fluroranthene
    32B fluorene
    33B hexachlorobenzene
    34B hexachlorobutadiene
    35B hexachlorocyclopentadiene
    36B hexachloroethane
    37B indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
    38B isophorone
    39B naphthalene
    40B nitrobenzene
    41B N-nitrosodimethylamine
         		42B N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine
    43B N-nitrosodiphenylamine
    44B phenanthrene
    45B pyrene
    46B 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene     Pesticides
    1P aldrin
    2P alpha-BHC
    3P beta-BHC
    4P gamma-BHC
    5P delta-BHC
    6P chlordane
    7P 4,4'-DDT
    8P 4,4'-DDE
    9P 4,4'-DDD
    10P dieldrin
    11P alpha-endosulfan
    12P beta-endosulfan
    13P endosulfan sulfate
    14P endrin
    15P endrin aldehyde
    16P heptachlor
    17P heptachlor epoxide
    18P PCB-1242
    19P PCB-1254
    20P PCB-1221
    21P PCB-1232
    22P PCB-1248
    23P PCB-1260
    24P PCB-1016
    25P toxaphene     Other
    dioxins- 2,3,7,8 tetrachloro-dibenzo
    -p-dioxin (TCDD) and others asbestos

    TABLE III - OTHER TOXIC POLLUTANTS (METALS AND CYANIDE) AND TOTAL PHENOLS

    antimony, Total
    arsenic, Total
    beryllium, Total
    cadmium, Total
    chromium, Total
    copper, Total
    lead, Total
    mercury, Total     		nickel, Total
    selenium, Total
    silver, Total
    thallium, Total
    zinc, Total
    cyanide, Total
    phenols, Total

     


    Appendix IV – Additional Guidance on the Disposal of Radioactive Materials

    When you apply for authorization to use radioactive materials on the campus, the application is processed by the Radiation Safety group in EH&S. At the time of that application the issue of sewer disposal and permits/limitations will be discussed with you. The result will be that the RUA you receive indicates if radioactive materials under your permit may be disposed to the sanitary sewer. This permission will appear on the RUA and will include a limit as to the quantity (in milliCuries) that may be disposed to the sewer on a quarterly (or less) basis. Radiation Safety staff will work with others and the appropriate committees to assure that any necessary special requests that are needed are submitted and evaluated.

    Exceedences of these limits may result in actions that are described in the campus Radiation Safety Manual.

    “Mixed radioactive waste” is a waste that is both hazardous material and radioactive. These mixed wastes cannot be disposed to the sewer.



    Appendix V – Additional Guidance on the Determination of Solubility

    There are many approaches that may be used to determine a chemical compound's solubility in water. The following discusses two of the more common approaches.

    The solubility class of the compound to be released could be determined directly from common literature data (e.g., Handbook of Chemistry and Physics - CRC Press, and Lange’s Handbook of Chemistry - McGraw-Hill Book Company). If a compound is classified as “vs’ (very soluble) or “s” (soluble), this would indicate the compound is “readily soluble.” On the other hand, if it is classified as “i” (insoluble), “sls” (slightly soluble), or “vsls” (very slightly soluble), this would indicate materials that are “not readily soluble.” Certain compounds are designated as class “d” (decompose). Additionally, if the decomposed species of these compounds are classified as either ‘vs’ or ‘s,’ this would indicate that the parent compound is “readily soluble.” If these decomposed species are simple ions, such compounds (class ‘d’) should be considered “readily soluble.”

    Compound solubilities (g/100 ml or mole fraction per 100 ml) are also listed in the chemical literature. From a review of general scientific literature, “formal solubilities” greater than 0.003 mole/liter would indicate the compound is readily soluble. Formal solubilities less than 0.003 mole/liter would indicate compounds that are “not readily soluble.”

    Solubility information is readily available from the supplier. Therefore, radioactive materials to be disposed to the sanitary sewer must be Readily Soluble (RS). Materials that are “NRS” or “Unknown” indicate these materials MAY NOT be disposed to the campus sanitary sewer system. ONLY materials that have a solubility of RS can be disposed to the sanitary sewer system.

    Solubility Product (Ksp) Determination: The solubility product constant of the compound could also be used to determine if a compound is readily soluble in water. The solubility product constant, Ksp, for a strong electrolyte MmAa, is expressed as:

    Ksp = [M] m [A] a

    where “[M]” and "m" are the ionic concentration (mole/liter) and the number of moles, respectively, of the dissolved cation; and [A] and "a" are the ionic concentration and the number of moles, respectively, of the dissolved anion.

    For a simple electrolytic compound, with one mole of a dissolved cation species and one mole of a dissolved anion species, a Ksp greater than 1.00 E-05 mole/liter would indicate that a compound is readily soluble. For other compounds with more complex dissolution reactions (i.e., more than one mole dissolved for each species and/or more anionic or cationic species present in the dissolved products), the Ksp constant would increase exponentially, based on the number of moles and/or the number of dissociated species. For example, if three moles are present (two for the anion and one for the cation), the unit of Ksp would be:

    Mole3/liter3, and the corresponding Ksp would be (1 E-05)3/2 or
    3.2 E-08 mole/liter; the same principle could be applied for more complex dissolution reactions.

    Formal Solubility Determination: Compound solubility (g/100 ml or mole fraction per 100 ml) are also listed in the chemical literature. From a review of general scientific literature, "formal solubilities" greater than 0.003 mole/liter would indicate that a compound is readily soluble.

    The general relation between the formal solubility, Sf, and the solubility product, Ksp, of a strong electrolyte MmAa in water is given by:

    Sf = (Ksp/(mm aa ))1/(m+a)

    where Ksp is the solubility product, [M] is the molar concentration of the metal ion (cation), [A] is the molar concentration of the anion, "m" is the number of moles of dissolved cation per mole of dissolved substance, and "a" is the number of moles of the dissolved anion per mole of dissolved substance.

    A formal solubility of less than 0.003 mole/liter indicates a compound that is not readily soluble.

    It should be pointed out that all values mentioned above (e.g., solubility class, formal solubility, and solubility product) correspond to measurements taken under standard conditions (e.g., 25øC, 101.3 kPa, pH of 7, and Eh of 0).

    If material to be released would not qualify as being readily soluble, it will require an exemption from the campus guidelines. Exemptions are judged on a case-by-case basis. A permit for disposal of these materials may be granted, if it is demonstrated that release to sanitary sewerage is consistent with applicable regulations and in the public interest.

    References

    For further discussion on the determination of solubility products and formal solubility, refer to Chapter 6, "Precipitation and Dilution," from Water Chemistry, by Vernon L. Snoeyink and David Jenkins (John Wiley and Sons: 1983) or texts relating to physical and/or analytical chemistry..

    Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Volume 11.01, "Water (I)." American Society for Testing and Materials, Easton, MD, 1989.

    CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. CRC Press, Inc., Boca Raton, FL, 65th ed, 1984.

    Lange's Handbook of Chemistry. McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York, NY, 13th ed, 1985.

    Snoeyink, Vernon L. and David Jenkins, Water Chemistry. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY, 1980.

    Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. American Public Health Association, Washington, DC, 17th ed, 1989.

     

    Appendix VI: Decision Making Tree

    Implementation of the UC Berkeley Guidelines for Drain Disposal of Chemicals

    Notice: EBMUD regularly monitors campus wastewater. Failure to comply with wastewater discharge regulations could lead to fines of up to $25,000 per day and/or restrictions on University water use.

    Hazardous Wastes

    Hazardous wastes are prohibited from discharge. Chemical wastes are hazardous if they are:
    • corrosive
    • reactive
    • ignitable
    • moderately
    • or highly toxic
    General Rules for Sanitary Drain Disposal

    Only water-soluble substances may be disposed of in sinks, toilets, and floor drains. Solutions should be flushed down the drain with an appropriate amount of water. (Residue animal or vegetable fats and oils generated as a result of normal cleaning activities are an exception to the solubility rule. However, significant amounts of these oils and fats (more than a 500 ml, approximately) can cause clogging in interior drains and so should be collected and disposed of appropriately.

    Only solutions in the range of pH 5-10 may disposed of in the sink.

    Highly toxic, malodorous, or lachrymatory (that is, those that cause strong eye irritation) chemicals shall not be disposed of down the drain.

    Old, unwanted, or waste chemicals and products must not be poured down the drain as a means of disposal. These materials must be picked up EH&S personnel.

    Specific Process for Laboratory drain disposal

    Step One
    • Do you know the chemical identity of the material and the concentration?
    • Are you sure that the material is not hazardous (corrosive, reactive, ignitable, moderately or highly toxic).
    • Is the pH between 5 and 10?

    If the answer to any of the above is NO, the material cannot be disposed of to the sewer.

    If the answer to all of the above is YES, proceed.

    Step Two

    Is the material a Class A? (chemicals that pose little or no hazard in dilute aqueous solution). Class A chemicals include many simple organic and inorganic compounds, as well as common inorganic chemicals. Included in Class A are most normal biological metabolites and non-toxic cellular constituents (proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, soluble fats, and their precursors and catabolites). A partial list of Class A chemicals, derived from state regulations and Appendix K of Reference 2, is provided in Appendix I.

    If YES, these aqueous solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain in quantities of up to approximately
    100 g of solute per laboratory per day (e.g. 100 g of ethanol in one liter of water).

    If NO, continue.

    Step Three

    Is the material a Class B? (chemicals of moderate hazard in dilute aqueous solution). Class B chemicals include all of the chemicals listed as toxic (T) in the California Code of Regulations Section 22-66261.30 et. seq. that are water soluble, except for those listed as Class A chemicals in Appendix I or Class C chemicals in Appendix III. Class B chemicals also include all inorganic salts listed in reference 2 as high hazard in tables 6.1 and 6.2. A partial list of Class B chemicals appears in Appendix II.

    If YES, these aqueous solutions are suitable for disposal down the drain with excess water in quantities no greater than 1 g of solute per laboratory per day).

    If NO, continue.

    Step Four

    Is the material a Class C? (chemicals that may not be drain disposed in any amount except by written approval of the EMC or their delegate). Class C chemicals include all chemicals that are not soluble as defined above, chemicals that cause unacceptable concentrations of offensive, toxic, or explosive vapors, and chemicals that are toxic or reactive at concentrations below 1 ppm in aqueous solution. Class C chemicals include the chemicals identified in the Main Campus EBMUD Wastewater Discharge Permit "Priority Pollutant Management Plan" Compliance Requirement (Federal Clean Water Act priority pollutants listed in 40 CFR Part 122 Appendix D, Tables II and III). A partial list of Class C chemicals appears in Appendix III.

    If YES, these aqueous solutions are not suitable for disposal down the drain. However, you may ask for a specific exception by making a request to the EMC. Contact EH&S to determine how this request is made.

    If NO, contact EH&S for assistance in classifying your material for disposal purposes or to arrange pick-up of this material for proper disposal.

    Note: Radioactive material disposals to the sewer must meet the above criteria and must be authorized by an RUA. Dispose of these materials in accordance with the RUA.

     

    Drain Disposal Guideline References:

    1. "Prudent Practices for Disposal of Chemicals from Laboratories", National Academy Press, Washington D.C., 1983.

    2. "Prudent Practices for Handling of Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories", National Academy Press, Washington D.C., 1981


    For questions related to these Drain Disposal Guidelines, please contact:

    Office of Environment, Health & Safety

    Main Number: 642-3073

    Email: ehs@berkeley.edu

     

     

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