Disposing of Materials

How to properly perform this important task

June 15, 2021

Mro0615 Recycling Symbol2 svg 60c8c0a30a515

When a repair has been performed, what does the repair tech do with old parts, leftover fluids, and other materials? Not everything can go into the general waste stream. Sometimes, an item or fluid cannot go into its normally designated disposal container.

If you replace the oil in the gearbox driven by the motor you just replaced, that oil goes into a special drum for used oil, per EPA regulations. That is, unless you also decided to use trichloroethane or a similar solvent to help clean the reservoir. You cannot dispose of oil thusly contaminated using regular oil drums (unless your company enjoys big fines from the EPA).
The control cabinet has several small fluorescent lamps, and you replaced one. It has to go to your used lamp storage area for recycling, not into the regular trash.
Good thing you had a clean rag when you cut your finger. Dispose of it in the biohazard waste container
Old circuit boards contain toxic metals and do not go into the general waste stream.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.