Hand pump spray bottles filled from bulk containers are a convenient method of reducing the use of aerosol cans. This technology reduces both the disposal of aerosol cans and the release of propellants. Hand pump spray bottles can be refilled by pumping the solution from bulk containers such as 1-, 5-, 30-, or 55-gallon drums. This method is best suited for cleaning solutions, lubricants, and other spray solutions that are available in bulk. The spray bottles are composed of plastic and are compatible with most cleaning solutions and lubricants. They are durable and can last for many refills. Hand pumps are available to pump solutions directly from drums for use in the spray bottles. A pail adapter, to allow the use of the hand pump, is available for solutions that are in pails or buckets.

The Navy’s P2 Afloat Program is promoting this technology to replace many uses for aerosol cans.

Eliminating aerosol cans may decrease the amount of ODSs used at a facility and will also help the facility meet the requirements under 40 CFR 82, Subpart D and Executive Order 12843 requiring federal agencies to maximize the use of safe alternatives to class I and class II ozone depleting substances, to the maximum extent practicable. In addition, aerosol cans are removed from the solid waste stream which helps facilities to meet the requirements under Executive Order 12873 requiring executive agencies (e.g., DOD) to incorporate waste prevention and recycling in their daily operations.

The compliance benefits listed here are only meant to be used as a general guideline and are not meant to be strictly interpreted. Actual compliance benefits will vary depending on the factors involved, e.g. the amount of workload involved.

Consult your local industrial health specialist, your local health and safety personnel, and the appropriate MSDS prior to implementing this technology.

• Reduces solid waste disposal
• Reduces aerosol propellant discharge to the atmosphere
• Bulk purchase of many spray systems is less expensive than small quantity procurement of solutions in aerosol cans

• Different nozzles are needed for different density fluids
• Does not work well with paints

The following cost elements compares using refillable pump spray bottles and aerosol cans for lubrication. The cost for both aerosol cans and spray bottles was obtained through vendor communication:

Assumptions:

• 55-gallon drum lubricating oil cost: $490
• 16-ounce aerosol can lubricating oil cost: $1.87
• 440 16-ounce aerosol cans equivalent to one 55-gallon drum
• The equivalent of one 55-gallon drum is consumed annually
• Drum pump costs: $20/ea
• Purchase 20 spray bottles at $1.08/each
• No significant difference in labor

Annual Operating Cost Comparison for Refillable Spray Bottles and Aerosol Sprays

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Approval is controlled locally and should be implemented only after engineering approval has been granted. Major claimant approval is not required.