top of page
Search

How to Safely Dispose of Hazardous Household Waste


McGree Trucking has delivered reliable refuse and recycling services to the Butte-Silver Bow community since 1949. As part of our commitment to safe waste management, we provide ongoing information on what hazardous household waste is and the special attention required for its proper disposal.


HHW poses a threat to environmental and human health. It includes items that are corrosive, toxic, combustible, or reactive. Educating the community on proper disposal helps protect our local residents and the environment. In this blog, we'll discuss three key points related to hazardous household waste.


  • What HHWs are and how to dispose of them properly.

  • Why HHWs require special handling.

  • Where to discard or recycle HHWs in the Butte-Silver Bow area.


Why Standard Dumpsters Are Not for Hazardous Materials

Standard dumpsters are not designed to hold hazardous materials.

  • Environmental risks: Chemicals leak out of dumpsters, contaminating soil and groundwater.

  • Danger to sanitation workers: Combustible items, such as propane tanks, can explode and catch fire when compressed.

  • Legal and regulatory consequences: Toxic materials such as asbestos and medical waste are strictly regulated. Residents and waste service providers may face substantial penalties, fines, and legal action for violations.


Common Household Items That Require Special Handling

Certain materials pose environmental risks, fire hazards, and safety hazards when disposed of with general waste. They should be disposed of at community collection events, HHW centers, and designated recycling centers.

Common household items classified as HHWs include:

  • Electronics: TV, cell phone, computer

  • Batteries: lithium-acid, lithium-ion, rechargeable

  • Paints: solvent, oil-based paint, paint remover

  • Home and garden chemicals: oven cleaner, drain opener, fertilizer, herbicide, pesticide

  • Automotive fluids: antifreeze, motor oil, brake fluid

  • Pressurized containers: aerosol can, propane tank

  • Furniture and large appliances: mattress, washing machine, refrigerator


Managing Electronics and Batteries

E-waste, including discarded cell phones, laptops, tablets, e-cigarettes, and power tools, contains high-energy density lithium-ion batteries. When crushed by sanitation equipment, Li-ion can combust, resulting in thermal runaway, a rapid, high-temperature fire that's difficult to extinguish.


Additionally, the lead, mercury, beryllium, and cadmium found in lithium batteries leach into the environment, posing significant health risks. E-waste should be taken to designated recycling centers or hazardous waste facilities.


Household Cleaners and Corrosives

Used individually, each product is an effective cleaning agent. However, mixing certain household chemicals can cause severe skin irritation and release toxic fumes.  


  • Bleach and ammonia: create chloramine gas, causing respiratory distress, watery eyes, and nausea

  • Bleach and rubbing alcohol: create chloroform, which can damage the nervous system and organs

  • Bleach and vinegar: create chlorine gas, resulting in respiratory issues, coughing, and burning eyes

  • Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar: create peracetic acid, irritating skin and eyes, and corroding surfaces


Pouring them down drains eats through pipes and creates toxic fumes. They also cause harm to the environment by contaminating septic leach fields or sewage treatment systems.

When mixed with regular garbage, toxic chemical combinations can release dangerous fumes and cause fires in sanitation trucks. They contaminate landfills and groundwater.


Local Disposal Resources and Best Practices in Butte

Store HHWs in their clearly marked original containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from children and pets.

There are several locations to safely dispose of HHWs in the Butte-Silver-Bow area.

Automotive Batteries, Metal, Oil, Antifreeze

  • Butte-Silver Bow Landfill: 121074 E. Browns Gulch Rd.

Electronics

  • Staples: 3636 Harrison Ave., (496) 494-1000

  • Pacific Steel: 905 Gaylord St., (496) 782-0402

Annual Electronics Recycling Event


Partner with McGree Trucking for Responsible Waste Solutions

McGree Trucking is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for our neighbors in the Butte-Silver Bow community. We adeptly manage standard waste and recycling, and we provide the information to guide you toward the right recycling resources for your HHWs.


Contact McGree Trucking for information on our standard dumpster services and assistance with local hazardous waste schedules.


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page