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Storage, Treatment, and Disposal of Waste Formalin Solutions <br /> California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay-Delta Region 2109 Arch-Airport Way, Ste. 100 <br /> Stockton, CA 95206 <br /> Updated: October 8, 2018 <br /> PLEASE POST THIS PROCEDURE IN EACH LAB <br /> Waste Formalin Storage <br /> 1. Using a funnel and sieve of appropriate mesh size, transfer all 5-10% waste formalin solutions <br /> to a 2 gallon formalin waste jug, which are stored under every hood sink. In addition, transfer <br /> the first rinse water from formalin-preserved samples into a waste jug; this may be a few <br /> milliliters, 100-200 ml, or more, depending on the size and type of sample. <br /> 2. Record the start date of waste formalin accumulation on the jug label. Note that all formalin <br /> must be neutralized within 10 days of the accumulation start date. <br /> 3. Store waste formalin jugs under lab hoods in secondary storage containers. <br /> 4. Do not accumulate more than 8 gallons of waste per lab hood; this is 4 jugs per lab hood, with <br /> 2 gallons per jug. <br /> Waste Formalin Treatment and Disposal <br /> Part 1 <br /> 1. Once a waste container is full to the 2 gallon mark and you are ready to treat, record the final <br /> date on the jug label and record the date, time, gallons of waste, lab, source, and estimated % <br /> formalin on the log beside the hood. <br /> 2. Check the pH of the waste formalin and record it on the log and on the jug label. Calibrate the <br /> pH meter daily and record. <br /> If pH is 4 or lower Stop! Raise the pH by adding sodium borate in % teaspoon increments before <br /> proceeding. Ideally the pH will be raised to near 7 before treatment. <br /> 3. Under the fume hood, add two packets of Neutralex to the jug. Recap and shake the jug in the <br /> hood to mix thoroughly. Record the number of Neutralex pouches added and the date and <br /> time on the jug label. <br /> 4. Set this jug in a tray under the hood and allow at least 15 minutes for neutralization. <br /> Part 2 <br /> 5. After neutralization, extract a small sample (about 10 mL) from the jug for testing. Be careful <br /> not to let any treated waste water down the drain of the lab sink (using a drain plug is <br /> recommended). <br /> 6. Test and record the pH. The pH must be between 5 and 10 for disposal. If the pH needs <br /> adjusting, record the pH before and after adjustment on the log. <br /> Revised 10/8/2018 by A. Hennessy <br />