Container Evaluation

Proper Identification and Evaluation of the Material

The first step in managing potentially reactive or unstable material is the proper identification and evaluation of the material.  Clean Harbors has standard operating procedures for the proper identification and evaluation of shock sensitive, reactive, peroxidizable, and unknown materials.

Evaluation Criterion

The evaluation criterion consists of a visual inspection of the container, its integrity and contents.  Age, storage conditions, and whether the material has been opened, are factors which determine whether the material is safe to package or needs to be tested and/or stabilized.  Interaction with the customer is important to determine if contaminants could have been mixed with the material, which would increase the material’s instability or reactivity.  Throughout the evaluation process, physical contact with the container is kept to a minimum.

Disposal Options Discussed with Customer

Once a potentially reactive or unstable material has been identified, the Clean Harbors Reactive Material Services team reviews all disposal options with the customer.  In most cases, the cause of a potentially unstable or reactive material is due to the inappropriate and improper storage of the material for a prolonged period of time.