Benchmark 15: Improve identification and proper handling of hazardous waste Target and Date: Implement tracking system of hazardous chemicals by 2013.
Highlights:
A tracking system through Bobcat Buy currently exists and is being implemented. All individuals at the university who purchase hazardous materials are instructed to do so through this tracking system.
Waste Reduction
About the Hazardous Materials Office at Ohio University: Responsibilities include but are not limited to implementation of and consultation for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (Hazardous Waste), Atomic Energy Act (Low Level Radioactive Waste), Ohio Department of Health Underground Storage Tank Regulatory Program, Toxic Substance Control Act (PCBs), Clean Water Act (Storm Water Runoff), Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, Dilution Tank Maintenance Program, Emergency Planning Community Right to Know Act, County Health Department Center for Disease Control, lab programs including chemical hygiene, lab safety, biosafety, infectious waste disposal, bloodborne pathogens and hazardous materials in general. Progress Overview:
Next Steps:
Ohio University has a Hazardous Materials Coordinator employed within the Department of Environmental Health and Safety. This individual is responsible for tracking the purchase and disposal of materials as well as training those who handle these materials. Ohio University’s new online procurement process, Bobcat Buy, allows us to more adequately track the purchase of hazardous materials and provide the purchaser with the proper training regarding handling and disposal. This tracking of purchases through Bobcat Buy is considered a marked improvement of the procedures previously implemented at the university.
Environmental Health and Safety will continue to implement and assess the hazardous materials handling policies and adjust procedures as needed to ensure materials are purchased, managed and disposed of in the most sustainable manner possible.
Supplemental information is available online: Ohio University Hazardous Waste website. This site outlines all potential hazardous waste present on a university campus and offers information regarding proper handling: http://www.ohio.edu/riskandsafety/ehs/ hazmat/index.htm This formal university policy outlines management processes for hazardous waste: http://www.ohio.edu/policy/44-104.html
Reporting Body: Environmental Health and Safety
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Individuals who have questions about how to dispose of hazardous materials on campus are invited to call Environmental Health and Safety for support: 740-593-1663.