Specific Waste Types

Aerosol Cans

Empty aerosol cans can be recycled, contact Physical Plant for the location of recycling containers for the collection of empty aerosol cans.

Aerosol cans that are not empty must be disposed of as hazardous waste.

Compressed Gas Cylinders and Tanks

Containers under pressure must be secured in laboratories and workshops and not left unattended in public access areas. Departments heads are responsible for establishing specific procedures for the control, handling, storage and disposal of compressed gas cylinders, tanks and aerosols.

Empty compressed gas cylinders and tanks are not permitted in the regular garbage. Disposal procedures should be checked with the supplier as the supplier may refill or recycle these containers. If not, these containers must be disposed of as hazardous waste.

Pathological Waste and Sharps

Department heads are responsible for establishing specific procedures for the control, handling, storage and disposal of pathological waste or sharps used in the department.

This type of waste is not permitted in regular garbage containers and custodial staff are not permitted to handle them.

Radioactive Waste

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulates the use and disposal of radioisotopes. The university disposes of radioactive waste to Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) according to their procedures. Any questions regarding the disposal of radioactive waste should be directed to the Radiation Safety Officer or to the Manager, Environmental Health and Safety.