HAZMAT and Waste

Hazardous Materials and Waste

Purpose and Scope

This guide applies to all HPU personnel and all university-owned or operated property. Its primary goal is to prevent hazardous material releases and ensure that all chemical waste is identified, stored, and disposed of in compliance with federal and state laws.

General Disposal Procedures (All Campuses)

Before disposal, all waste must undergo a proper Waste Determination.

  • Identification: Use Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to determine if a material is hazardous (corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive).
  • Containerization: Waste must be kept in containers that are in good condition, leak-proof, and compatible with the chemical being stored.
  • Labeling: Every container must be clearly labeled with the words "Hazardous Waste" and a description of the contents.
  • Storage (Satellite Accumulation Areas - SAA):
    • Waste should be stored at or near the point of generation.
    • Do not exceed 55 gallons of hazardous waste or one quart of acutely hazardous waste in an SAA.
    • Containers must remain closed at all times unless waste is being added or removed.

Hawaii Campus Specific Procedures

Operations at the Hawaii campuses must adhere to Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health (HIOSH) standards.

  • Environmental Release: In the event of a spill, immediately contact Campus Security at (808) 544-1400.
  • Vertical Evacuation: For coastal areas (e.g., Aloha Tower), be aware of vertical evacuation protocols to the 4th floor or higher in the event of a tsunami or flooding.
  • Weekly Inspections: SAA areas must be inspected weekly by the generator to ensure container integrity and proper labeling.

Las Vegas Campus Specific Procedures

The Las Vegas campus must comply with Nevada-specific risk management and NDEP regulations.

  • Extreme Heat Storage: Due to the desert climate, temperature-sensitive chemicals must be stored in climate-controlled environments to prevent degradation or pressurized container failure.
  • Monsoon Preparedness: Be alert for flash flooding hazards during the monsoon season (July–September) when handling outdoor waste transfers.
  • Emergency Contact: For life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. For university-related safety issues, notify local campus leadership immediately.

Disposal Request Process

Hazardous waste must never be poured down the drain or placed in regular trash. To request a pickup, please use the following forms: