The Problem With Improper Disposal

Shop rags are typically used for cleaning parts or spills that may contain oil or hazardous chemicals such as trichloroethylene or Varsol. Proper management of these rags is important.

Hazardous or Nonhazardous?

Shop rags collected and laundered by a licensed launderer are not considered a waste because they are being reused. However, if shop rags are disposed, i.e., not laundered, the generator is responsible for determining if they are hazardous waste. For example, if shop rags are contaminated with a listed hazardous waste solvent (waste codes F001-F005), they are regulated as hazardous waste and must be managed as such when they are disposed.

To Help Prevent Pollution . . .

	Use nonhazardous solvents whenever possible.
	Keep lids closed on containers to prevent spills or evaporation.
	Do not dump excess liquids such as oil and solvents into the dirty rag bins collected by the launderer. Not only is this practice illegal, the launderer will likely not accept rags in this condition.
	Wring excess liquids from rags into the appropriate container before sending them to the launderer. For example, rags containing used oil should be wrung into the used oil collection drum.
	Use a towel to its full absorbent capacity. Partially used rags can be stored separately and labeled for reuse prior to laundering.
	Investigate the possibility of replacing solvent-based cleaners, etc., with less volatile or less hazardous materials. Reducing hazardous materials in the workplace decreases worker exposures and the company's waste management liability and costs.
	Implement a towel reuse system to reduce unnecessary laundering. Three containers marked "Clean," "Reusable," and "Dirty" in the towel storage area will encourage workers to reuse towels as appropriate. To reduce chemical usage, spray cleaner onto rags instead of soaking them. Do not dip towels into buckets of solvent. Solvent in open buckets evaporates rapidly. This unneeded evaporation increases solvent release into the workplace and environment. Spraying instead of soaking a rag uses significantly less solvent.
	Check with the local fire inspector for any local ordinances concerning storage/handling of oily wastes.

The Wrong Things To Do . . .

	Do not pour excess liquids into the shop rag collection container.
	Do not add shop rags containing free liquids to the collection drum.
	Do not prewash or launder your own shop rags unless your facility has a permitted wastewater treatment system designed to handle the laundry.
	To avoid a fire hazard, do not store oily rags for long periods of time.

Applicable Laws

North Carolina Fire Prevention Code 3502.2.2 states that "Self-closing metal cans shall be used for all oily wastes."

For More Information . . .

This Fact Sheet is only an overview and may not contain detailed information suitable to your situation. Should you need further assistance, please call one of these offices.