Question 1

What is RCRA's impact on research laboratory chemical waste?

Accepted Answer

RCRA requires labs to classify their chemical waste as hazardous (listed or characteristic) and manage it according to their generator status. Labs must use licensed transporters, sign Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifests, and ensure waste goes only to permitted TSDFs. Exodus handles all RCRA requirements for laboratory chemical waste.

Question 2

What is the OSHA Laboratory Standard and how does it relate to waste?

Accepted Answer

OSHA's Laboratory Standard (29 CFR 1910.1450) requires labs to have a Chemical Hygiene Plan covering safe use and disposal of chemicals. It works alongside RCRA — OSHA governs worker safety during handling, RCRA governs disposal. Exodus helps labs satisfy both by providing compliant containers, labeling, and disposal documentation.

Question 3

Can research labs dispose of chemical waste down the drain?

Accepted Answer

Very rarely, and only for truly non-hazardous materials meeting specific POTW discharge limits. Solvents, acids, bases, heavy metals, and RCRA-listed chemicals may never be poured down drains. Labs should assume drain disposal is prohibited unless explicitly approved by your institution's EHS office and verified against POTW limits.

Question 4

How are unknown or unlabeled lab chemicals handled?

Accepted Answer

Unknown chemicals cannot be transported without classification. Exodus uses field tests (pH, flash point, reactive gas) to characterize unknowns. Truly unidentifiable unknowns may require analytical chemistry. We manage the entire classification and disposal process so your lab stays compliant.

Question 5

What is a lab closure service?

Accepted Answer

Lab closure services involve systematic inventory of all chemicals, classification of each as hazardous or non-hazardous, lab packing, DEA coordination for controlled substances, transport under manifests, and final documentation. Exodus provides turnkey lab closure services for academic, corporate, and government laboratory facilities.

Research Lab Waste Disposal & Chemical Services