Paint
Paint operations generate waste paint in three main areas:
- Solvents used in cleanup operations,
- Leftover paint after completion of a project, and
- Volatile Organic Compounds emitted to the atmosphere.
Correct:
- Use paint and solvents with the lowest possible VOC content. Avoid oil based paints and paints containing metals. Use latex paints whenever possible.
- Limit your use of thinner to the maximum extent possible. Use cleaning solvent the maximum number of times before disposal.
- Try to practice good inventory control. But only enough paint to complete the job.
- Keep all paint and solvent containers closed when not in use to minimize evaporation and prevent spills.
- Use an industrial rag service to avoid having to treat solvent rags as hazardous waste.
- Contact EHS for assistance with disposal of paint and paint related material.
- If you collect paint or solvent waste in drums, keep the lid closed at all times, unless adding material, and label the container “Used Paint” or another applicable name.
Incorrect:
- Do Not discharge any paint, solvent, or paint cleanup wash water into storm drains, surface water, or onto the ground.
- Do Not dispose of paint filters in a dumpster if you are using oil based paints.