How to Safely Store and Transport Hazardous Materials for Disposal in Asheville

Identifying Common Hazardous Materials

Before storing or transporting any waste, it’s important to identify whether your materials are considered hazardous. Common household hazardous materials include:

• Paint products and solvents
• Automotive fluids (motor oil, antifreeze)
• Household cleaning products
• Pesticides and fertilizers
• Batteries and electronics
• Fluorescent light bulbs
• Propane tanks and aerosol cans

Safe Temporary Storage Guidelines

Once you’ve identified hazardous materials, follow these storage practices until proper disposal can be arranged:

Keep Original Containers When Possible

The safest option is to keep hazardous materials in their original, labeled containers. These containers are designed specifically for the substance they contain and include important safety information and ingredients lists that disposal facilities may need.

Create Clear Labels

If you must transfer a substance to another container, choose one that’s compatible with the material and clearly label it with the contents, date, and any hazard warnings. Never use food containers for hazardous materials, as this creates a serious risk of accidental ingestion.

Designate a Safe Storage Area

Store hazardous materials in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and high-traffic areas. Your storage area should be:

• Well-ventilated to prevent buildup of fumes
• Secure from children and pets
• Protected from extreme temperatures
• Equipped with spill containment measures

Separate Incompatible Materials

Some hazardous materials can react dangerously when mixed. Store acids, bases, flammables, and oxidizers separately from each other. Use plastic bins or storage cabinets to keep incompatible materials physically separated.

Preparing for Transport to Disposal Facilities

Research Acceptance Policies

Before loading up your vehicle, contact the disposal facility to confirm they accept your specific materials. Buncombe County’s Household Hazardous Waste facility and other local collection points often have specific requirements and operating hours.

Secure Containers for Transport

When transporting hazardous materials:

• Ensure all containers are tightly sealed
• Place containers upright in sturdy boxes lined with plastic
• Use absorbent materials like cat litter between containers
• Prevent containers from tipping or sliding during transport
• Never transport leaking containers

Vehicle Safety Considerations

Transport hazardous materials in the trunk of your car or the bed of your truck, never in the passenger compartment where fumes could accumulate. Drive carefully, avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns that could cause containers to tip over.

Asheville-Area Disposal Options

Western North Carolina offers several options for proper hazardous waste disposal:

Buncombe County Landfill Household Hazardous Waste Facility

Located at 85 Panther Branch Road in Alexander, this facility accepts a wide range of household hazardous waste from Buncombe County residents. They operate on specific days and have guidelines for accepted materials.

Special Collection Events

Throughout the year, local municipalities in the Asheville area host special collection events for hazardous waste. These events provide convenient opportunities for residents to dispose of materials safely.

Commercial Disposal Services

For businesses or large quantities of hazardous waste, commercial disposal services may be necessary. These services provide compliant transportation and disposal for a fee.

When to Call Professionals

While many hazardous materials can be handled safely with proper precautions, some situations call for professional assistance. Consider contacting a specialized waste management company if:

• You discover unknown chemicals or substances
• You’re dealing with large quantities of hazardous waste
• Materials are leaking or damaged
• You’re managing commercial or industrial hazardous waste