|
|
|
Definitions
Products commonly found in the household are considered hazardous if they have at least one of
the following characteristics:
- Toxic: May cause injury or death upon being inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin.
- Caustic/Corrosive: A chemical or its vapors can cause deterioration or irreversible
alteration in body tissues and deteriorate or wear away the surface
of the material.
- Flammable: Can ignite or explode under normal working conditions.
- Reactive: Can explode through exposure to heat, sudden shock, pressure, or incompatible substances.
|
|
Warning Words
Product labels are required to list certain words to alert the consumer if a product is considered hazardous:
- Danger
- Poison
- Warning
- Caution
For a list of many of the most common Household Hazardous Materials, along with advice on how to handle and
dispose of them, see our HHM Safety Chart.
These products need to be handled carefully not only to protect you from immediate harm, but also to
ensure they do not enter the environment.
Back to top
A resident brings old household hazardous materials to a regional collection center in Mason City.
|
Smart Shopping Decisions
- Thank retailers for providing safer alternatives.
- Read labels and be selective in choosing products. Let the signal words be your guide.
- Purchase safer alternatives.
- Purchase only as much of a hazardous product as you need.
When possible, use all of the product you purchase according to manufacturer's directions.
If you cannot use all of the product, give remaining product to someone who can use it.
|
Note: It is unlawful to give away or sell open containers of pesticides. Either use the
pesticides until gone according to the manufacturer's directions or contact your
Regional Collection Center.
Dispose of unusable products safely. Contact your regional collection center for household
hazardous materials collection. Many regional collection centers offer usable products
through a "swap shop."
Back to top
Storage Guidelines
- Follow manufacturer storage directions.
- Keep products out of the reach of children and animals.
- Store all household hazardous materials away from food items.
- Tightly seal lids and caps.
- All containers should be clearly labeled before storing.
- Keep HHMs in original containers. NEVER place HHMs in food or beverage containers
as young children can easily mistake them for food and drink.
- Keep HHMs away from heat, flame or sources of ignition.
- Store HHMs containing volatile chemicals or those that warn of vapors in a well-ventilated area.
- Store HHMs in a cool dry place.
Back to top
Septic Tank Precautions
If your home has a septic system, there are special precautions you should take. Harmful materials
that go down the drain will reach the natural water system and keep the septic tank from working
properly, releasing even more pollutants. HHMs can kill the bacteria needed for septic systems to work.
Also:
- Avoid dumping grease or fats down your kitchen drains. They can accumulate and block your system.
- Have your septic tank pumped by a certified contractor every three years to ensure proper operation.
If you do not, you risk clogging (and costly repairs).
- Do not drive vehicles over absorption fields. It can compact the ground,
which also can cause clogging in your system.
Back to top
DNR Contacts
Kathleen Hennings
(515) 281-5859
Kathleen.Hennings@dnr.state.ia.us
|
