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It takes mere drops of HHW to contaminate A
drinking water source, and each person Generates more than seven litres
each year. In this province, we generate almost 400 million litres
annually.
Why Should I be
concerned?
Problems arise when HHW users
dispose of Residuals down drains or storm sewers. HHW may corrode plumbing
and cause failure in septic systems, and can contaminate harbors and
coastal waters.
In a landfill, HHW seeps into soil
and water and may be transferred to humans, pets, or wildlife that consume
contaminated food or water.
When waste is burned, harmful
chemicals are released into the atmosphere. What goes up resettles or
returns in precipitation to both land and water
When HHW is disposed of in regular
garbage, waste workers are at risk of medical problems such as eye
injuries and chemical burns.
While HHW is a small amount of total
waste, it presents serious risks. It may be one of the biggest public
health, environmental, and liability challenges for communities. |
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Poison:
Includes solvents, batteries, antifreeze, medications, pesticides,
fertilizers, wood stains and preservatives, radiator or suspected
carcinogens.
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Corrosive:
Includes bleach and household cleaners, rust removers, wax
strippers, laundry stain removers, oven and drain cleaners, and
automotive lead acid batteries.
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Flammable:
Includes fuel oil, gasoline, motor oil, kerosene, camping fuel,
paint thinners, methyl hydrate, lighter fluids, contact cement, oil
based paints, insect repellent, aerosol containers, furniture
cleaners, paint brush cleaners, and gasoline/oil mixtures.
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Explosive (pressurized container): Includes gas cylinders that carry propane
or butane, and aerosol containers that are not empty
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