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June, 2009

Shop Towels

Q. What is the safest legal way to store and dispose of used, dirty shop rags with the following chemicals on them: mineral spirits, upholstery adhesive and/or aerosol wax wash?

A. How you handle used shop towels depends on their hazardous waste characteristics, but generally, most recommend that you use a qualified laundering service and all do not allow disposal of used rags into a landfill. Many states have specific guidelines on how to handle used shop rags.  For example, the following link will take you to Wisconsin's guidance document on this issue.  Also, following the WI link are guidelines from Alabama which simply serve as another example of how states mostly agree on what to do with used rags.

Wisconsin - Solvent-Contaminated Shop Towels, Wipes and Other Materials

Alabama

Shop Rags/Towels
Shop rags are typically used for cleaning/wiping parts and spills that may contain oils or hazardous
materials. Depending on how the dirty rags are handled will determine if they are considered
hazardous waste or not.

Do
Use rags/towels that can be laundered. Use a laundering service capable of handling rags
contaminated with hazardous materials. Use non-hazardous solvents whenever possible.
Store soiled/dirty rags in a closed container and we recommend it be labeled "Used Shop Rags Only"
Spray minimum amount of solvent onto rags instead of soaking rags. Remove or ring out excess solvent from rags before putting them in a container.

Don't
Do not dispose of solvents by pouring them into containers used to store "Shop Rags."