Trash Truck Incident
A
Facilities trash truck was emptying the dumpster behind a research building.
While compacting the load, they heard a pop, then smelled a very strong
chemical odor. They spoke with a staff member at the building, who stated
that the material smelled like acetone.
The trash
truck personnel contacted DEHS. With the assistance of the trash truck personnel, DEHS was
able to remove the suspect material as well as all contaminated debris.
The material was bagged and analyzed shortly thereafter. The material was
a mixture of chemicals, but the main constituent was Methyl Ethyl Ketone
(MEK). MEK has a sweet odor similar to acetone. The material and
personal protection equipment were managed through the University Hazardous
Waste Program.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
All chemical waste must be managed through the University's Chemical Waste
Program. Improper disposal of chemicals place all University personnel,
especially trash truck and Custodial personnel, at extreme risk for
serious injury. It is very easy to have chemical waste removed from a
laboratory. Simply contact DEHS to have the material removed.
Please contact DEHS at x8475 with questions on
the waste management process or to set up chemical waste training.
According to Federal and State Law and University policy, all personnel
who work with chemicals must be trained in proper chemical waste
management.