HHW

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HHW | Disposal | Alternatives to Using HHW's | Accepted material

What is Household Hazardous Waste?

It is commonly thought that the leading polluters when it comes to hazardous waste are big commercial and industrial corporations. However, with more then 50,000 chemical products on the market and more than 31 million inhabitants in Canada, it is obvious that residents play a much greater role than we may at first realize. It is estimated that a single household will produce between 20 and 40 litres of hazardous waste every year. This includes such materials as paint and paint thinner, automobile lubricants and other fluids, household batteries, and aerosol sprays. Even household cleaners can pollute water and waterways if not disposed of properly.

Hazardous waste products should clearly bear the words of “Danger”; “Poison”; “Caution” and “Warning”. These products should also be labeled with one of the following symbols: Toxic/ Poisonous, Flammable, Corrosive or Reactive.

Toxic

Material that is poisonous to you, your children and your pets. For example: Rat Poison, bleach, Pesticides, Cleaning Fluids, Disinfectants, Mothballs, Rust Paints and Medication.

Corrosive
Substances that eat or wear away many materials. For example: Battery Acid, Oven Cleaner, Drain Cleaner and Batteries.

Reactive
These materials may react violently when exposed to heat or other substances. They may also be toxic to humans or other living things.

Flammable
These materials will burn under certain conditions. They may also be toxic to humans or other living things.

Northumberland Solid Waste Commission

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