PMT 116N Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Practice Test

Solvent-soaked rags pose a fire and vapor ignition risk, so disposal must keep heat and vapors contained and properly managed. Use an approved, closed, labeled container designed for solvent-soaked waste; keep the container tightly closed when not adding rags and place it in a location away from ignition sources. Segregate this waste from incompatible wastes to prevent reactions or additional ignition hazards, and arrange for hazardous waste disposal through your facility’s program or a licensed contractor, following local regulations for accumulation and disposal.

Wiping and reusing rags spreads solvent and vapors; drying them and placing in regular trash can still pose a fire risk; burning on site can cause uncontrolled fires and toxic emissions and is typically not allowed.