What should you do with expired chemicals in the lab?

The appropriate action to take with expired chemicals in the lab is to dispose of them according to safety regulations and laboratory protocols. This is important for several reasons.

Expired chemicals may have altered properties or reduced effectiveness, which can compromise experimental results or safety. Furthermore, many chemicals pose health hazards, environmental risks, or legal liabilities if not handled properly. Regulatory guidelines are designed to ensure that hazardous materials are managed in a way that protects both people and the environment.

Following the designated disposal procedures means that chemicals are categorized correctly and handled by trained personnel, often through specialized waste disposal services that can safely decontaminate and manage materials. This process helps to mitigate the potential risks associated with expired or hazardous substances in the laboratory setting.

In contrast, utilizing expired chemicals, storing them alongside current supplies, or discarding them in general waste poses significant safety and environmental risks, as it does not conform to established safety practices.