STORAGE/DISPOSAL > Overview

This section of the EVC covers the topic of hazardous waste management in an art department, specifically associated with etching waste. A typical etching acid bath is equipped with an exhaust hood to remove the acid vapours. Acid neutralising material should be available in the event of an acid spill. The bath should be placed in a vessel equipped with a cover to reduce the amount of vapours emanating into the work environment. The baths are drained when not in use and the waste disposed of. Safety glasses and gloves should be worn when etching is performed to reduce the potential for chemical contact with skin and eyes. As previously discussed, acids and bases used in etching are corrosive materials; they must not be poured down the drain. Waste acids such as nitric acid and ferric chloride solution may also contain metals such as zinc and copper, which are regulated by hazardous waste regulations.

Continue further along the EVC tour and learn more about storage/disposal requirements.