Uranium Waste Focus Sheet

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URANIUM WASTE Read below for information about safe packaging, labeling and disposing of uranium and thorium compounds. DESCRIPTION LABEL Uranium waste consists of solids and liquids Ensure container is contaminated with uranium and thorium compounds. properly labelled with Examples include uranyl acetate, uranyl nitrate, information about the uranyl formate and thorium nitrate. uranium or thorium compound, concentrations and a “Caution Radioactive Materials” sticker. DISPOSE Uranyl acetate and similar compounds are generally licensed, however any liquid or solid waste must be disposed of as radiological waste. Due to toxicity element of most Uranium and STORE Thorium compounds, liquid waste may be designated as Mixed Waste. Labs planning or concerned about generating uranium waste must consult with Solids Radiation Safety for disposal pricing, guidelines and For contaminated solids, designate an appropriate alternative options. sized container in a secure area (e.g., back of a fume hood in a locked lab). Label the container with a Uranium and thorium solid waste, powders or “Caution Radioactive Material” sticker. crystals will be collected by Radiation Safety for disposal. Liquids Store contaminated liquids in an appropriate strong To arrange a pick-up of uranium waste, complete a plastic container in secondary containment. Keep the Radioactive Waste Collection Request. waste container close to your work area to minimize chance of spilling. When not working, place waste in a posted and secure storage area. Liquid waste containers must always be properly labelled, and securely closed when not in use. Please contact EH&S Radiation Safety at 206.543.0463 or radsaf@uw.edu for more information. Page 1 | September 2019 www.ehs.washington.edu | 206.543.7262 | ehsdept@uw.edu .

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