Waste Hold Tags
Hazardous Materials
Essential Info for Proper Waste Labeling
A waste hold tag is used when a container can’t be removed from a lab or area due to a pending question or concern. It signals that the waste is temporarily on hold. Tags may be placed on anything from lab waste containers to standard trash bins.
What to do if you see a hold tag:
When a container is tagged with a waste hold tag, it means Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is reviewing a concern. EHS will contact the submitter or room occupant with details and next steps. In the meantime:
- Do not move the tagged container.
- Do not add any additional waste.
- Contact EHS if the container must be moved or if you have urgent questions.
Why would waste be put on hold?
- A required label may be missing (chemical waste).
- Description on the label does not match the waste pickup request (chemical waste).
- The container may appear to be or is visibly compromised (e.g. cracked, wet, poorly fitting lid).
- The container is overfilled or too heavy for safe handling.
- Waste must be transported separately from the other items being picked up.
- An unacceptable item is seen in a standard trash bin (e.g. needle, razor blade, waste bottle without a “safe for disposal” label).
Contact
Environmental Health and Safety
hazwaste@purdue.edu
765-494-0121