Used developer solutions are typically considered non-hazardous waste because their silver content is usually below the regulatory level of 5 mg/L.18 In most jurisdictions, the solution may be disposed of in the municipal sewer system if the pH is within 6 to 10. The State-by-State Hazardous Waste Resource Locator provides information for specific jurisdictions.4 Used developer solution should never be disposed of in a septic system, it will destabilize the system.
Some x-ray processing systems mix the spent developer and fixer and render the solution hazardous waste. Consider changing the equipment. It is also of note that unused developer solutions typically contain 1 to 5 percent hydroquinone. While this chemical is not considered hazardous waste by the EPA, it is neither listed nor characteristic, many state and local jurisdictions restrict its disposal. Consult the State-by-State Hazardous Waste Resource Locator.4
Your session is about to expire. Do you want to continue logged in?
WARNING! You did not finish creating your certificate. Please click CONTINUE below to return to your previous page to complete the process. Failure to complete ALL the steps will result in a loss of this test score, and you will not receive credit for this course.