TOXIC ORGANIC (SOLVENT) MANAGEMENT

Solvents are liquids that are used primarily to dissolve other materials, especially greases and oils. Solvents are also found in paints, adhesives, and sealers.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates most spent solvents used at Fort Wayne Assembly as hazardous wastes based on the following characteristics: ignitability, corrosively, reactivity, and/or toxicity.

Many solvents are commonly referred to as toxic organics. If these solvents are mishandled (e.g. dumping them into storm, sanitary, or process waste drains) they present a hazard to local aquatic life and the environment.

To minimize the amount of solvent (hazardous) waste generated on site, the following procedures must be observed:

Identify the solvent in question.
Never mix solvent waste streams without approval from Environmental Engineering (x-2662 or x
2480).
Accumulate waste solvents in approved, labeled containers.
Never dump, pour, or pump waste solvents into any drain (See Note below for further restrictions). Notify CIS operators (x-6459 or x-2409) for pickup of waste containers.
Report any leaks or spills to security (x-2345).

.....Note: The following rules must be observed when handling all chemicals in accordance
with Federal, State, and Local regulations:

SANITARY DRAINS (Including sinks and Toilets)

No Chemicals are permitted except lavatory cleaning materials and soaps.

STORM SEWERS (Located Outdoors at Dock Areas and Parking Lots)

No chemicals of any kind are permitted.

PROCESS WASTE DRAINS AND SUMPS

Chemicals such as car wash and janitorial detergents are permitted. Under no circumstances may anti-freeze, oils, greases, gasoline, or solvents of any kind be poured into these drains.

Contact Environmental Engineering at x-2662 or x-2480 with questions pertaining to solvent management.