Aerosol Cans
To be considered empty, an aerosol can must contain NO propellant and NO product, and must be at atmospheric pressure. UNC-Chapel Hill regulates all partially empty spray cans as hazardous waste because they may still contain ignitable propellants, chlorinated solvents, flammable material or toxic substances.
Correct
- Request a pick-up of your aerosol cans by filling out the hazardous material pickup form.
- Contact Environment, Health and Safety at 919-962-5723 for assistance with disposal of aerosol cans.
- Store aerosol cans in a closed container labeled as “Aerosol Cans.”
- Return spray cans that malfunction (for example, the tip breaks off) to the manufacturer or dispose of them as hazardous waste.
- Establish a distribution control system to limit aerosol cleaner use.
- Consider phasing out the use of spray cans containing hazardous chemicals in your shop.
- Consider using refillable containers that use compressed air as the propellant.
Incorrect
- Do NOT discard partially empty spray cans in the trash.
- Do NOT puncture any aerosol cans.
- Do NOT spray aerosols in or around other solvents or parts washers. Hazardous waste contamination may result.
- Do NOT purchase products that contain chlorofluorocarbons or hazardous chemicals.