When government inspectors visit MU to determine compliance with hazardous waste regulations, they frequently visit laboratories and other locations where hazardous materials are used. EHS recommends the following eight steps to ensure that all areas are in compliance with these regulations:

• Label All Containers: Each container must have the chemical name displayed. Hazardous waste must have a Hazardous Waste Label.
   
• Accumulation Start Date: Each container of hazardous waste must show the date (month/day/year) when accumulation began. There is a box on the green Hazardous Waste Label (PDF) for this information.
   
• Dispose of Hazardous Waste in a Timely Fashion: According to MU policy, all containers of hazardous waste are to be turned over to EHS within six months of the accumulation start date.
   
• Avoid Large Accumulations of Hazardous Waste: Do not accumulate more than 55 gallons of hazardous waste. For Acutely Hazardous Materials, do not accumulate more than one pint. Contact EHS for removal before these limits are reached.
   
• Securely Fasten Lids: Lids on containers of hazardous waste must be securely fastened except when filling or removing materials from the container. Do not leave open funnels in containers or open containers in fume hoods.
   
• Segregate Hazardous Materials by Hazard Class: Do not store solely by alphabetical order.
   
• Use Compatible Containers and Closures: Containers for hazardous waste must be of good condition and not react with the hazardous waste they hold.
   
• Good Housekeeping: Good housekeeping is the most important action to improve safety and minimize waste. Clean up spills promptly and thoroughly. Do not overfill containers. Make sure storage and work areas are not cluttered, so that visitors are presented with a good visual impression and no suggestion of general mismanagement.