Disposing of Household Hazardous Waste
What are Household Hazardous Wastes?
Many consumer products contain chemicals that if improperly used, stored, or disposed of, may be hazardous to human health or the environment.
Chemicals in these products become hazardous wastes when they are no longer wanted or needed as household products and are not disposed of properly.
Often time’s citizens have home and garden products such as cans of paint, pesticides, solvents, household cleaners, and automotive products stored in their homes and garages. These products may be stored for long periods of time simply because people don't know how to dispose of them safely or legally.
Unfortunately, such products are frequently washed down drains, poured on the ground, or thrown in the trash, where they ultimately pose a risk to human health and the environment. Disposing of household chemicals in the trash may cause fires, explode, or react with refuse in trash collection trucks resulting in injury to sanitation workers.
Household products may be hazardous because they are flammable, poisonous, corrosive, reactive, explosive, or carcinogenic. Our health may be affected by hazardous products through ingestion, through inhaling gases, or by absorption through the skin. Hazardous products also affect the environment by contaminating air, water, and soil.
Some chemicals are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the fatty tissues of some animals when ingested. These animals in turn are consumed by humans and could potentially have a negative impact on our health.
It is usually not difficult to determine the hazards of specific products. Product labels contain useful information on ingredients, hazards, and proper use. Pesticide labels are legally required to provide information on active ingredients and toxicity.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the manufacturer of a product and requesting a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or by contacting the OSU Cooperative Extension Service.
Household Hazardous Waste Permanent Facility
In a combined effort with Midwest City and the Central Oklahoma Metropolitan Environmental Association (COMEA), Oklahoma's first permanent Household Hazardous Waste Facility was opened in Midwest City October of 2002. This facility provides a safe and legal opportunity to dispose of household hazardous waste. The facility is located at 8726 SE 15th Midwest City, Ok. 73110
Hours of Operation and services
· The permanent facility is open by APPOINTMENT ONLY.
· All items must be in the original labeled container. Questions about acceptable items should be directed to the Stormwater Quality Department.
· There is no fee for Midwest City residents or members of COMEA.
· Got some painting to do? Items that are received in good condition that can be reused will be issued upon request FOR FREE!!! If you have questions about what may be available for reuse please call.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please contact the Stormwater Quality Department @ 739-1352.
