Good morning,

 

We had a small hazardous waste incident in one of our labs recently, and I am trying to help the lab gather information on potential causes. A four-liter amber glass bottle of chemical waste containing 50% methanol, 44% ethyl acetate, and an assortment of six p-phenylenediamine antioxidants (PPDs) pressurized and broke open. The bottle was tightly capped and very full, it only had about 1.5 inches of space left at the top. The bottle broke open at the bottom of the bottle in a jagged formation. No polymerization of the contents was observed, but some speculated an event like that could have led to the pressurization of the container. I have already informed the lab that they should not fill waste containers more than 80%.

 

I have not been able to find information on similar events involving PPDs. Any input or information this group could provide about what may have led to this event is greatly appreciated.

 

Regards,

ALEX HAGEN, CCHO

Laboratory Safety Inspection Program Manager

Environmental Health & Safety Department

Research & Occupational Safety, Laboratory Safety Inspection Program

 

Hall Health  /  Box 354400  /  Seattle, WA 98195-4400

206.221.2339 / mobile 206.713.5267 / fax 206.616.3360

fischera**At_Symbol_Here**uw.edu / www.ehs.washington.edu

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