General Instructions for Disposing of Chemical Waste (Organic and Inorganic) in the Labs at Northern Technical University
Researchers and scholars at Northern Technical University must follow these essential steps for the safe disposal of chemical waste:

First Step: Classification of Chemical Waste
– Classify chemical materials into the following categories: solids, papers, glass, and liquids. Place each type in its designated container, ensuring caution by reading the labels on waste containers to confirm proper disposal.

Second Step: Container Management
– Cover each container immediately after placing waste inside. Adhere to the following guidelines:
– Chemical Disposal: Do not pour chemicals directly into sinks or the sewage system unless allowed by regulations. Check with your professor or supervisor. For example, aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, sugar, and soap can typically be disposed of down the sink.

– Contaminated Materials: Place materials that have been contaminated with chemicals, such as used napkins and towels, in a container specifically designated for chemical waste. Consult your professor to determine if these materials must be treated as hazardous waste or if they can be disposed of in regular waste containers.
– Broken Glass: Dispose of broken glass in designated containers. If the glass is contaminated with chemicals, seek guidance from your professor on proper disposal.
– Mercury Thermometer Accidents: In the event of an accident involving a broken mercury thermometer, inform your professor immediately. Cleanup requires strict procedures due to the toxicity of mercury, and broken glass with mercury must be disposed of in a specific container.

What is Meant by Toxic Waste?
Chemical toxic waste refers to waste composed of harmful chemicals primarily generated by large industries or through chemical reactions. This waste often falls under specific regulatory frameworks. Chemical waste can be classified as hazardous or non-hazardous depending on its properties.

Characteristics of Chemical Waste
Hazardous chemical waste can exhibit characteristics such as:
– Flammability: A substance’s ability to ignite and burn.
– Corrosiveness: A substance’s ability to damage materials, including skin and eyes.
– Toxicity: The potential to cause harm to human health or the environment.

Important Procedures for Handling Chemical Waste
– Researchers must adhere to standard protocols to minimize exposure and avoid accidents. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection. Maintain proper laboratory ventilation to prevent inhalation of harmful fumes, and ensure storage systems are in place to avoid spills and fires.
– Effective chemical waste management is crucial for protecting the environment from contamination. Non-compliance with waste disposal regulations can have severe consequences, including pollution and health risks.

Environmental Impact of Chemical Waste
While many chemicals are designed to improve quality of life, improper disposal can have devastating effects:
– Short-term: Water pollution that makes drinking water unsafe and harms aquatic life.
– Long-term: Landscape degradation, wildlife harm, and potential human health crises due to toxic exposure.

Flammability of Chemical Waste
Flammable chemicals must be recognized and disposed of accordingly:
1. Liquid Chemicals: Those with a flashpoint ≤ 140°F (60°C), e.g., certain alcohols and organic solvents.
2. Solid Chemicals: Substances capable of causing fire via friction, moisture, or spontaneous combustion.
3. Compressed Gases: Flammable gases such as hydrogen and propane should be treated as hazardous waste.

Responsibilities of the Chemical Safety Department at Northern Technical University
– Regulate the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste.
– Dispose of non-recyclable materials properly.
– Facilitate the recycling process where applicable.
– Offer workshops and training to educate staff and students on waste management protocols.

Path of Chemicals on Campus
1. Chemicals are procured by a specialized committee based on the needs of research and educational laboratories at Northern Technical University.
2. The College Administration notifies the Security Division of the arrival of chemicals, providing necessary safety information.
3. Chemicals are stored in corrosion-resistant metal cabinets equipped with safe ventilation systems.
4. Data regarding each chemical is entered into an electronic system for tracking and management purposes.
5. Only the required quantity of chemicals for experiments is transferred to laboratories upon a formal request.
6. After experiments, chemical waste is stored in appropriate containers within the laboratory.
7. Waste is delivered to the designated authorities in the Northern Province for safe recycling or disposal.

Biological Waste Management Program
Biohazards: Include various microorganisms that can pose risks to humans and the ecosystem.
Biohazardous Waste Management:
– Decontamination of Biohazardous Liquid Waste:
1. Use appropriate disinfectants according to lab guidelines or autoclave as per the laboratory’s biosafety manual.
– Disposal of Biohazardous Solid Waste:
1. Place waste in leak-proof, labeled bags and autoclave or incinerate based on specific lab protocols.
– Sharps Waste Management:
2. Use designated, puncture-resistant containers for sharps, which should then be decontaminated and disposed of following lab guidelines.
By adhering to these guidelines and procedures, Northern Technical University aims to maintain a safe and environmentally responsible laboratory environment.

Furthermore, the university sponsors several annual events including:

1. Organizing and sponsoring annual national conferences held by professors in chemistry,
biology, and other relevant specializations.
2. Calling scholars to submit their ideas as programs of waste treatment.
3. Annual issuing and updating guides for safety and security.
4. workshops for educating campus population to protect the environment.

For more information:
https://ntu.edu.iq/ar/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%82%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%82%D9%8A%D9%85-%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%B4%D8%A9-%D8%B9%D9%85-3/

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_F2eZF7ZpfYL99xeqk2RFcQh7PapIZSG?usp=drive_link