LIQUID WASTE DISPOSAL

[ANDRES SINISTERRA <SINISTERRA@sun1.uchc.edu>]

We require all PI's to segregate all aqueous liquid waste by isotope, 
unless it is a double label, by isotope.  We only allow them to use 
standard .5 gal and 1 gal plastic containers that we provide.  We then 
assay each container to determine activity and assign a control number 
which we then input into our database.  We do not encourage our 
investigators to do their own dumping except liquid from washes, 
decontamination, etc...  We also require the generators to pH all 
liquid.  If it is not between 6 and 10,  they must neutralize it prior 
to pickup.  This is a local regulation so other towns might have a 
different pH criteria.

We do not trust our investigators to know how much activity is in a 
bottle.  This is why we assay all liquid and insures accuracy plus we 
will always have control over our effluent concentrations.  Lastly,  
all liquid that can be held for decay is decayed prior to disposal.  
This is a good approach to minimize any averse reaction from the local 
community.  This is very important to us in this age of strong local 
public oppinion.

I would like to nkow how other facilities are handling their liquids.

Thanks......!


Andres Sinisterra
Asst. R.S.O. for Medicine
University of Connecticut Health Center

Internet:  Sinisterra@sun2.uchc.edu
Bitnet:    Sinisterra@uconnhc