Efficient Management of Toluene Waste for Industrial Applications
At Rubo Hazardous Waste Management, we specialise in handling hazardous waste safely and sustainably. In this case study, we detail our recent work managing the collection and disposal of toluene waste for a UK-based industrial client.
The Challenge
The client, a manufacturer using toluene as a closed-cycle fluid in an ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) machine, required the safe disposal of 800 litres of spent toluene contaminated with rust particles. While the contamination altered the appearance of the material, it retained its flammable and hazardous properties, including:
UN 1294: Flammable liquid classification.
Hazards: H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness), H304 (May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways), and H361d (Suspected of damaging the unborn child).
This posed challenges for handling, storage, and transport while ensuring compliance with UK hazardous waste regulations.
Our Solution
Rubo developed a tailored solution to manage the client’s waste safely and efficiently, focusing on compliance and sustainability.
Waste Collection and Packaging:
The toluene was stored in a UN-approved IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) to ensure safe transportation.
Proper labelling and classification ensured compliance with ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) requirements.
Sustainable Disposal:
The waste was sent to our licensed recovery facility, where it was processed to separate contaminants.
Usable portions of the toluene were recovered for secondary industrial applications, minimising waste and promoting sustainability.
Compliance and Documentation:
Detailed consignment notes were issued, including HP Codes such as HP3 (Flammable), HP4 (Irritant), and HP14 (Ecotoxic).
Rubo ensured full traceability from collection to disposal, meeting all regulatory standards.
Teaching Moment: Why Proper Toluene Management Matters
Toluene is widely used in industrial applications, but its hazardous properties necessitate careful management:
Health Risks: Prolonged exposure can cause neurological effects, organ damage, and reproductive harm.
Environmental Concerns: Improper disposal can lead to groundwater contamination and harm aquatic life.
Fire Risk: Highly flammable vapours require controlled environments for storage and transport.
The Results
Volume Processed: 800 litres of toluene waste.
Sustainability Impact: A significant portion of the waste was recovered, reducing environmental impact.
Client Benefits: A safe and compliant waste management solution with minimal disruption to operations.
Rubo offers expert hazardous waste solutions tailored to your business’s needs.