The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) defines radioactive waste as radioactive material that no longer has a use. Items collected as radioactive waste include, but are not limited to:

• Dry radioactive waste
• Liquid radioactive waste
• Sealed radioactive sources
• Other items contaminated with radioactive materials

It is imperative to minimize the generation of radioactive waste. Improper waste characterization, segregation, and storage can result in significant difficulties and cost when it comes time to dispose of this specialized waste.

Each lab that generates radioactive waste should work with the Radiation Safety Officer to develop a waste plan. EHS may provide waste containers and labels upon request. 

Waste collection and storage guidelines:

• Radioactive waste should be segregated into separate waste containers for each isotope
• Solid waste and liquid waste must not be mixed
• Contaminated sharps should be stored separately in sharps containers
• Radioactive waste should be stored in sturdy containers that are not so large that full containers become too heavy to lift
• The outside of the waste container should be label clearly with “Caution – Radioactive Waste” and the isotope it contains
• Hazardous waste labels should not be used for radioactive waste
• Radiation producing equipment shall not be disposed of as general equipment

Please contact the Radiation Safety Officer to arrange for radioactive waste pickup.

Visit the EHS Radiation Safety page or contact the Radiation Safety Officer for more information.