How To Dispose Of Fixer And Developer Septic Tank? (Solution found)

  • Spent fixer goes through a silver magnet, then through the trickle tank before heading down the septic. Film is washed per the Ilford method with wash water going through the trickle tank. Print holding water and hypo clear goes through the trickle tank as well.

How do you dispose of developer and fixer?

If they are unused chemicals, you can combine developer and fixer to neutralize them and then pour down your drain leading to a municipal water treatment center. (Do not dump it into a septic system.) Don’t dump selenium toner down the drain. Most else can be dumped.

Can fixer go down the drain?

After silver recovery, fixer can be disposed down the drain. If your local regulations allow, you may be able to dispose of small amounts of used fixer into the municipal sewer.

How do you get rid of spent fixers?

There are three common ways of dealing with used fixer:

  1. dispose of it off-site as a hazardous waste,
  2. pay someone that operates a silver recovery unit to take your fixer, or.
  3. use a silver recovery unit on-site.

How do I dispose of a photographic developer?

Unused and spent photographic developers and negative plate processing chemicals are generally not considered hazardous. They are safe to pour down the drain, but do so in small quantities in order to avoid chemical reactions.

Can you pour hair developer down the drain?

It’s important to not throw unused hair dye or bleach into the garbage, and especially not down the drain. Hair products create a load of problems if they’re flushed down the sink and enter the water system, making it harder for waste facility workers to filter it out of our water.

Can you pour black and white developer down the drain?

Black and White Darkroom Chemistry Developer is an alkali and stop bath is an acid. Therefore, if you mix the two chemicals together, the result will be a neutralized solution that can safely be poured down the drain.

What do you do with a used developer?

Disposing of Used Chemicals Developers and stop baths can still be diluted further with lots of water, and flushed down the drains, but fixers take off the silver from the developing paper and so contain silver and so should not be disposed this way.

Can you pour Blix down the drain?

I believe that blix can be put there as well because it contains Fe-EDTA bleach that is not particularly toxic. The stop can go down the drain and straight bleach disposal goes according to manufacturer’s directions.

What are the EPA guidelines for disposing developer fixer and lead foil?

The best practice for disposing of unused developer is to put it into a separate labeled container, and send it back to its manufacturer. Lead aprons and Lead dental foil Disposal: These items can be recycled as well. While lead is hazardous, these items do not contain that much of it.

Is human tissue hazardous waste?

Hazardous waste can be found anywhere that human blood, fluids, tissues, or byproducts are present – the scene of a violent crime, industrial accident, suicide, or trauma. Examples of biohazardous waste include: Human body fluids. Amniotic fluid, saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, pleural fluid.

How do you crush an old septic tank?

Usually an old septic tank is broken up in-place using a backhoe. The backhoe operator may pull in the tank sides, crush them, and push the whole steel tank to the bottom then back-fill with soil and rubble. In a DIY project we might use a heavy steel wrecking bar to just punch holes in the old steel tank bottom.

Can you sell a house with an old septic tank?

If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, then you must be transparent with buyers about the fact the property uses a one and provide a detailed specification of the system. In fact, You are required by law to inform a buyer in writing about the presence of a septic tank.

What were septic tanks made of in the 1950s?

Many of the first septic tanks were concrete tanks that were formed out of wood and poured in place in the ground and covered with a concrete lid or often some type of lumber.

Chemicals and septic tank

  1. If your septic alarm is sounding, you should always seek professional assistance. In the event of an emergency, technicians are constantly on call at SepTech’s 24-hour emergency response line, ready to chat with you and discuss the situation. Within minutes, one of our techs will be on the phone with you. You’ll be guided through some basic diagnostic questions, asked to check on a few items if possible, and even guided through some troubleshooting as necessary once you’ve been linked to the system. Upon discovering that the problem cannot be fixed over the phone, our professionals will explain your alternatives and future actions with you, as well as any expenses associated with resolving the problem. Because of our devotion to our clients, we are always there to assist you whenever you require our assistance. The absence of an alarm is completely unnecessary. pumps are mechanical equipment, even if they are spanking new, There are times when impellers become clogged and electrical and float-related issues arise, and when this occurs, you must be aware of the situation immediately to prevent your system from backing up into your home. This does not rule out the use of an alarm system even if your system was installed at a time when they were not required. An alarm system that is properly operating is required for everybody who has a septic system. Period. We provide emergency service around the clock and are available to answer any concerns you may have regarding your septic system or alarm system. Contact us now! For septic system problems, SepTech provides the highest level of service and quality. Simply phone (587-852-6652) or fill out our contact form if you require an inspection or maintenance!

dr5chromeMember

  • Date of joining: December 29, 2006 Medium-format camera used by the photographer I would agree with everybody who has stated that this should not be done. DO NOT, under any circumstances, dispose of your photographic waste in your septic system. Make your way to a darkroom that has been connected to a sewer pipe. According to one of Kodak’s publications, there is no negative impact on septic systems as a result of the use of an amateur darkroom. The professional darkroom, on the other hand, is another story
  • Really? What magazine are you referring to? A large part of the way septic systems function is that the soil filters the effluent, ensuring that by the time it reaches the groundwater, it is safe to drink. If this did not take place, tainted groundwater would be found everywhere. Consider all of the stuff that people flush down their toilets, including soaps, detergents, home cleaning agents, and who knows what more! As a result, I don’t believe you should be concerned about environmental damage. To reaffirm what has already been said on this website, the only issue that may arise is the presence of silver or silver compounds that interfere with the bacterial action that breaks down solid wastes. However, when compared to a large laboratory, the modest amount of chemicals used by a normal home darkroom worker would be unlikely to cause an issue. The fact is that I have been throwing all of my chemistry down the drain for years and have never heard of any difficulties when my tank is pumped, nor have I heard of any situations where it has happened
  • One method to lessen the quantity of chemicals used is to convert from inversion to rotational processing! Another option is to employ a replenishing developer plan, which is beneficial to both your pocketbook and your septic tank or the environment.

fotchMember

  • Dec 29, 2006 – Become a member! Median Format Photographer Those that have stated, “DON’T,” have my whole support. DO NOT, under any circumstances, dispose of your photographic waste in your septic tank. Make your way to a darkroom that’s connected to a sewer pipe. In one of its papers, Kodak claims that the use of an amateur darkroom has no negative impact on septic systems. Is it true that the professional darkroom is a different animal? Who wrote the article
  • Where did it appear? A large part of the way septic systems function is that the soil filters the effluent, ensuring that by the time it reaches the groundwater, it is safe to consume. If this did not occur, tainted groundwater would be found everywhere. Consider all of the items that people flush down their toilets, including soaps, detergents, home cleaning agents, and who knows what else. There is no need to be concerned about the environment, in my opinion. Reiterating what has already been discussed on this site, the sole issue may be silver or silver compounds interfering with bacterial activity that is responsible for the breakdown of organic wastes. However, when compared to a large laboratory, the modest amount of chemicals used by a normal home darkroom worker is unlikely to be a concern. The fact is that I have been throwing all of my chemistry down the drain for years and have never heard of any difficulties when my tank is pumped, nor have I heard of any examples where it has happened
  • One method to lessen the quantity of chemicals used is to convert from inversion to rotational processing. Another option is to employ a refreshed developer scheme, which is beneficial to both your money and the environment.

dr5chromeMember

  1. Date of joining: December 29, 2006 Medium format was used by the photographer. This is completely irresponsible, even if it is intended to give any novice the impression. While picture garbage is not the worst type of waste, the fact that you are dumping it into the ground water is. If there was ever a time when it was appropriate to quit doing it, this would be it. Alternatively, you might sell your home and go somewhere where there is a sewer connection. Sewer systems are capable of handling picture trash with ease
  2. But, I am not disposing of film garbage in this manner. When I saw this post, I was thinking about how it substantially minimizes the amount of waste output that I have to store, as well as the additional advantage of minimizing smells in my closet “darkroom.” Most (notice the word “most”) developers are less harmful to the environment than many of the everyday items that people flush down the toilet. Is it time to get out of the bath? Is it possible that someone was serious about including stop bath? What if you had to flush salad dressing down the toilet? The stop bath is even safer if you do so since the fats in the oil in the dressing are more likely to clog your pipes, and the vinegar has a concentration that is similar to that of the stop bath. If you want to recover the silver ion, I’d recommend using the silver magnet to accomplish it. It’s much easier if you don’t want the silver ion in recoverable form (steel wool or aluminum foil), which is what I recommend.

Healthcare Environmental Resource Center (HERC)

The Management of Specific Wastes in Dental Offices (including X-Ray Wastes) Wastes generated by dental office x-ray equipment are discussed in detail in this section of the manual. The following are some of the subjects covered (see links to sections below):

  • The Management of Specific Wastes in Dental Offices, Including X-Ray Waste Wastes generated by dental office x-ray equipment are discussed in detail in this section of the guide. The following are some of the subjects covered (with links to the relevant sections):
See also:  When Does A Septic Tank Need To Be Emptied? (Question)

To learn more about each topic, click on the links above. Many dental clinics are opting to use digital imaging (dental radiography) technology instead of classic photographic x-ray systems to avoid the difficulties and expenses associated with traditional photographic x-ray systems. Digital imaging is a dry method, meaning that no liquid chemicals are employed in the process of photographing and developing an image. Because digital imaging is performed using a laser and a computer system, there is no waste generated during the imaging process.

  • Please keep in mind that the discussion of x-ray wastes in this section is mostly focused on federal restrictions.
  • As a result, you should examine and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local rules in order to ensure complete compliance.
  • The information that follows assumes that your dental practice is classed as a conditionally exempt small quantity producer under the RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) (CESQG).
  • More information may be found in the HERC’s discussion on the Generator Status.
  • Keep in mind, however, that the duty for establishing whether or not your waste is hazardous falls on your shoulders, and that if there is any reason to be concerned, testing should be conducted (see HERC’s Hazardous Waste Determination).
  • Used fixer, which is most likely to be a hazardous waste, and waste developer should not be mixed; otherwise, the combined solution will be a hazardous waste as well.
  • If this is the case, you might consider updating or customizing your equipment (you may be able to purchase an adapter kit to keep the fixer and developer separate).

As you dispose of the developer down the drain, make sure to properly flush the drain.

In such circumstances, collect the developer and get a garbage hauler to dispose of the waste in an appropriate manner.

Because it includes 1 to 5 percent hydroquinone, unused developer is often unable to be flushed down the toilet.

Because hydroquinone is used during the developing process, this is not a concern when using a used developer.

A Guide to Pollution Prevention for the Environmentally-Responsible Dental Office Waste Management in Dental Offices Should Be Proper.

However, the National Wildlife Federation and the Vermont State Dental Society released a handbook in June 1999 that included the format of the guide and many of the tactics outlined (VSDS).

General The fixer that is used is created during the generation of x-rays.

The waste code for used x-ray fixer is D011, and it is classified as such because of its high silver content.

Dental offices, like any other facility that generates hazardous waste, must adhere to all relevant regulations for waste determination, management, and disposal. Hazardous Waste. There are three basic methods of dealing with used materials in dental offices:

  • The dumping of the waste as a hazardous waste
  • The recovery of the waste either off-site or on-site using a silver recovery equipment

Each of these alternatives is addressed in further detail below. Hazardous Waste Disposal Off-Site Disposal From a federal perspective, dental practices that have been granted RCRA conditionally exempt small quantity generator (CESQG) status are authorized to dispose of their hazardous waste under specific conditions at the following locations:

  • Facilities that are approved, licensed, or registered by a state to manage municipal or industrial solid trash
  • Facilities that are controlled by the state or federal government for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD)

Because of state and local regulations, it is often not possible to dispose of used fixer at a municipal trash facility. As a result, dental practices seeking off-site disposal will most likely need to use a hazardous waste TSD facility or an industrial solid waste facility. Additionally, most states mandate the use of a licensed or approved transporter for the transportation of trash from your office to the disposal facility. Furthermore, CESQGs are responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste is transferred to a person or institution that is authorized to dispose of it.

Here are some fundamental procedures for CESQGs to follow in order to ensure the safe handling of hazardous waste:

  • Because of state and local regulations, it is generally not possible to dispose of used fixer in a municipal waste facility. As a result, dental offices that wish to dispose of used fixer off-site will most likely need to use a hazardous waste TSD facility or an industrial solid waste facility instead. When it comes to transporting trash from your workplace to the disposal location, most states demand the employment of a licensed or approved hauler. Furthermore, CESQGs are responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste is transferred to a person or facility that is allowed to dispose of it safely. Take note: Always request written confirmation that garbage has been disposed of correctly from the business in charge of processing your waste material. To assist CESQGs in ensuring safe handling of hazardous waste, the following fundamental principles are recommended:

If your facility falls within the definition of a small quantity generator (SQG), extra RCRA restrictions apply. For further information, see the Hazardous Waste section of the HERC website. Recycling at a distance Federal regulations for off-site recycling of old fixer are the same as those for the off-site disposal option outlined above, which is applicable to CESQGs (also, the same recommendations apply for storage, labeling and recordkeeping). Utilized fixer must be disposed of in a manner that allows it can be recycled or used in another manner (or treats the waste prior to use, reuse, or recycling).

Obtaining an Environmental Protection Agency identification number, complying with recordkeeping requirements, using a manifest when shipping materials off site, and complying with land disposal restrictions notification requirements are the only administrative requirements that apply to these materials (see40 CFR 261.6 Requirements for recyclable materials).

  • Even while on-site silver recovery is a viable option, it is frequently the most expensive one.
  • of used fixer per month.
  • The metallic replacement cartridge is the most generally used form of silver recovery unit in dental offices, and it is ideal for low volume applications such as filling cavities.
  • Plastic containers, a steel or stainless steel drum lined with plastic and filled with metal, generally steel wool, and a variety of plastic hoses and plumbing connections make up the equipment’s basic design.
  • After entering solution as an ion, the metallic silver is liberated as a solid, which collects at the bottom of the cartridge as sludge or is deposited on steel wool as a result of a chemical reaction.
  • When the silver can no longer be extracted efficiently, the silver-bearing sludge is transferred to a refinery for further processing.
  • These technologies are appropriate to applications with a larger volume of transactions.
  • To ensure that the majority of the silver is recovered, you will most likely need to employ two recovery units in series to ensure that discharge criteria are met on a consistent basis.

In spite of the fact that recovering silver on-site might prevent the need for off-site shipment, hazardous waste regulations in most states still require you to disclose the fixer trash in your Hazardous Waste Annual Report as well as your Notification of Hazardous Waste Activity (if these rules apply).

Through recycling, this paper from the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs makes advice on how to manage silver waste (found in used fixer solution) and lead waste (found in used intraoral film packages, lead aprons, and lead collars).

Some developer system cleansers also fit the requirements of corrosiveness or reactivity (since they include oxidizing chemicals) and may be classified as hazardous waste when they are no longer needed.

The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is one such source of information (MSDS). Despite the fact that MSDSs only provide rudimentary information on RCRA compliance, you may at the very least establish whether a product contains chromium. The following sections cover two different types of disposal:

  • Off-site disposal of hazardous trash and on-site disposal of non-hazardous waste are both options.

The disposal of hazardous garbage off-site; the disposal of non-hazardous waste on-site.

  • Facilities that are approved, licensed, or registered by a state to manage municipal or industrial solid trash
  • Facilities that are controlled by the state or federal government for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD)

The use of used chromium-bearing cleaners in municipal waste facilities is not generally permitted due to state and local regulations; therefore, dental offices seeking off-site disposal will most likely need to use a hazardous waste TSD facility or an industrial solid waste facility, unless they have a special exemption. Additionally, most states mandate the use of a licensed or approved transporter for the transportation of trash from your office to the disposal facility. Furthermore, CESQGs are responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste is transferred to a person or institution that is authorized to dispose of it.

For CESQGs,there are few fundamental measures that help assure safe handling of hazardous waste:

  • Storage containers should not be leaky, bulging, corroded, or otherwise incompatible with the waste that is being kept in them. It is sufficient to store used cleaner in a closed plastic container. Store the container in a location where it will not be damaged and where it will not leak into a floor drain or other drainage system. You may wantto place the container inside a bucket or pan to guarantee the contentswill not escape. Hazardous waste containers containing used X-ray cleaner should be clearly labeled with the phrases “Hazardous Waste – Used X-Ray Cleaner” as well as the date on which the used X-ray cleaner was originally placed in the container. In addition, it should be noted that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that all containers be labeled appropriately (see 29 CFR 1910.1200(a)). As a CESQG, you are prohibited from accumulating more than 2,200 pounds of hazardous waste on your premises at any given time prior to disposal. If this occurs, you will be required to adhere to all of the criteria of a small quantity generator (SQG)
  • It is not mandatory for CESQGs to maintain records on the volume and kind of hazardous waste they create under federal regulations. The recommendation is that you preserve all records for three years, including any analytical results, the quantity of trash created, copies of shipping manifests and any reports that you have made, to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. State regulations for recordkeeping may differ.

If your facility falls within the definition of a small quantity generator (SQG), extra RCRA restrictions apply. Hazardous Waste. Disposal as Non-Hazardous Waste on the Jobsite Given that your x-ray system cleaner is non-hazardous, you can dispose of it properly by pouring it down the drain, unless this is forbidden by local or state regulations (check with your local sewer district). When disposing of the non-hazardous cleaner that has been used, dilute it with tap water.

Pollution Prevention is a term used to describe the prevention of pollution.

Environmentally friendly cleansers are frequently just as effective as chromium-based solutions in terms of cleaning efficacy.

See also:  What Do I Use To Dissove Solids In A Septic Tank? (Solved)

How To Dispose Of Film Developing Chemicals

The 29th of August, 2019

It is important to know how to dispose of film developing chemicals correctly. This guide will explain the options for getting rid of your waste chemistry.

We believe that starting the development of your film at home is a fantastic concept. On the negative side, you will have to dispose of the film development chemicals when you are finished with your project. If you are new to film photography, this might be an intimidating notion for some people. But don’t fear, there are some basic steps you can take to get started.

Disposal Of Waste Chemistry

First and foremost, you should package all of your waste chemicals in appropriate plastic containers. Different chemicals should not be combined, and they should be kept in separate containers to avoid contamination. Make certain that they are well labeled as well, as it is critical that these liquids can be identified quickly. All sections of the country should have procedures in place for dealing with small quantities of used or undesired home chemicals, which should be coordinated by the local authorities.

By bringing your waste chemicals to us, you can rest assured that they will be disposed of properly.

If you’re lucky, your local government may already have systems in place for the collection of hazardous trash. You will need to speak with them personally in order to determine whether or not this is an option.

Other Disposal Options

You should begin by packaging all of your waste chemicals in appropriate plastic containers. Different chemicals should not be combined, and they should be kept in separate containers to prevent contamination. Make certain that they are well labeled as well, as it is critical that these liquids can be quickly identified. All sections of the country should have procedures in place for dealing with small quantities of used or undesired home chemicals, which should be coordinated with the local authorities.

We will ensure that your waste chemicals are disposed of in an appropriate manner by transporting them here.

If you’re lucky, your local government may already have provisions in place for the collection of hazardous waste substances such as pesticides.

Environmental Impact

The chemical used in film development is not very dangerous, but it must be handled correctly. Therefore, you should always read the Health and Safety recommendations of any product you want to use before starting. It is critical to ensure that waste items are disposed of properly for the sake of both public health and environmental health. Pouring waste chemicals down the drain should only be done as a last option in most cases. As a manufactured product, it has the potential to do damage to the environment and public health if not handled properly.

  1. If you are unclear of how to properly dispose of film development chemicals, store them in firmly sealed bottles and get guidance from your local authorities on how to do so properly.
  2. Businesses will be required to engage the services of a licensed garbage disposal operator.
  3. Take a look at our guide.
  4. Additionally, you might be interested in our instructions on How to Develop Black and White Film and How to Develop Color Film.

Explore

NewsGuidesCommunity Review of a film Developing Times for a Film Selecting Your FilmDeveloping Your Film

Disposing of Chemicals in a Septic Tank

Shucks! I guess I’ll have to give up on my plan of having a tiny tray of fixer next to my computer simply to relive the memories of that wonderful darkroom fragrance for a little while longer. My father has been interested in photography since he was 15 years old, when he purchased his first camera. I grew up in a home with a dedicated darkroom that was always open. If someone spends many hours every day in such an atmosphere, I feel that the fumes emitted by those chemicals will eventually be hazardous to that person’s health.

Instead of a large-scale commercial operation, the initial inquiry was in reference to the establishment of a small-scale residential darkroom business.

If you wanted to be very picky, you could line the pit with builders’ plastic and fill it with sawdust before digging.

In the following years, you may remove the plastic and discard it, leaving behind dried chemicals and sawdust compost, and try your hand at producing tomatoes. You could find yourself in need of some lime.

Health and Safety

Specifically, this part provides information to our customers on the safe handling, use, and storage of our photochemical solutions, as well as best practices for waste disposal and specific information for women who are pregnant or nursing a child. HARMAN photochemistry solutions are chemically safe, and the Safety Data Sheets provide detailed information on this (known as SDS or MSDS)

24 HOUR OHES emergency line for advice on chemical incidents

Working securely with processing chemicals is crucial, and it is not difficult to do so successfully. The recommendations on safe working practices provided on this page are intended for all users. Chemicals used in photography are not harmful if they are utilized appropriately and when fundamental laws of common sense are followed. Eat, drink, and smoke should not be done in places where chemicals are handled or utilized. Children and animals should not have access to any photo processing chemicals at any time.

Tweezers should be used to agitate prints while they are being processed and to move prints between dishes or trays.

Always read and observe the health and safety precautions listed on the package.

Keep appropriate hygiene practices in mind, wash your hands completely after using equipment, and thoroughly clean your work space after finishing a project.

Waste disposal for photographic products

Working securely with processing chemicals is crucial, and it is not difficult to do so. Every user will benefit from the recommendations made here on safe working habits. Using photographic chemicals responsibly and following basic laws of common sense will not put you or your family in danger. In situations where chemicals are handled or utilized, do not consume anything or smoke. Prevent children and animals from coming into contact with any photo processing chemicals. When handling or mixing chemicals, wear appropriate gloves and eye and face protection to ensure your safety.

Lab coats are designed to keep clothes and skin free of contamination.

In order to maintain proper ventilation in darkrooms, Good hygiene precautions should be observed, such as complete hand washing after using equipment and thorough cleaning of work surfaces after finishing a project.

Business and Trade users

Scrap film and paper, as well as any used or undesired processing chemicals, should be disposed of through a licensed waste disposal operator.

In the waste treatment process, the recovery of silver from old fixer, film, and paper is a critical aspect of the process. Different types of waste chemicals should not be combined; instead, they should be maintained in separate containers that are clearly labeled with the relevant information.

Pregnant and Breast Feeding Women

HARMAN photochemical products in a darkroom or photolab can be used safely by pregnant and nursing women, provided that sufficient control measures are in place, such as excellent working habits, adequate ventilation, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (such as gloves, lab coat and safety glasses). An expectant mother or a mother returning to work while breastfeeding should always have a specific risk assessment completed, which takes into account the likelihood of all potential hazards that could cause harm, such as repeated or heavy lifting, working at height, working in tight spaces, as well as exposure to chemicals, and identifies any changes to working practices or conditions that may be required.

  • This is always a good practice.
  • Photochems are no exception to this rule.
  • ILFORD Photo products do not contain any chemicals that have been identified as potentially harmful to nursing infants.
  • This is totally prevented by the standard control procedures outlined above.

Your family and pets

Processing chemicals, like other chemical goods, should be recognized as potentially detrimental to members of your family as well as your pets, and this is especially true for children. As a result, you should make it exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, for children and pets to obtain photochemical solutions and powders by any means. The photographic processing chemicals from HARMAN should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Under the condition that common sense working techniques and hygiene standards are followed, any health hazards related with these compounds will be properly controlled.

I Shoot Film

Where is your septic tank’s leach field? If it is anywhere close to a wild wetland, pond/lake, or river/stream then do not pour hydroquinone containing developers down the drain as these are ridiculously toxic to aquatic invertebrates. As long as you are the only person developing, the amounts of chemicals are pretty small so it is ok to pour exhausted developer down the drain as long as it contains no hydroquinone if your leach field is not near a wild body of water.Stop is ok to pour down, it’s just acetic or citric acid.Photo flo is ok, as long as your septic tank is not handling like 20 peoples worth of developing, which I doubt.Used fixer is the big problem, the Silver ions are not good for the environment. If you are the only person developing and if your leach field is not near a wild body of water, it’d be ok, but if not, better find a lab that’ll take it in. Many do.Good luck!Originally posted ages ago.(permalink)busy snow edited this topic ages ago.

Rake ten Menshsays:

DON’T put photo chemicals into your sewage tank!Your developer probably contains stuff that causes cancer. Your exhausted fixer contains silver salts in solution, they will kill your bacteria pretty quickly.If you use an acidic stop bath, it is safe to dump in your sewage tank.Have a look at the safety instructions on the bottles.Collect spent developer and fixer in two separate containers and bring them to somebody who can dispose of them safely. Where I live, I can bring them to a municipal facility. I don’t know about your neck of the woods.And keep on shootin;)Originally posted ages ago.(permalink)Rake ten Mensh edited this topic ages ago.

Rake ten Menshsays:

Silver can be removed from the fixer by using steel wool.It is easy.Search the threads in this group or Google it.ages ago(permalink)

Photo Utopiasays:

Developer doesn’t cause cancer, developers and their constituents break down normally and are far less damaging to the environment than say toilet cleaner or household bleach. Like Michael states above silver can be recovered, try seeing if a local minilab will take your fixer.If you are worried about developer (which would be unfounded) why not develop in coffee?photo-utopia.blogspot.com/2007/09/developing-in-coffee.htmlages ago(permalink)

oldoinyosays:

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE. CONSULT LOCAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS BEFORE DUMPING ANYTHING.Ordinary developers: no problemTanning developers (Rodinal, Amidol, Xactol, etc.) Possible problem. Toxic.Ordinary acetic-acid stop bath-no problemSome unorthodox stop baths: maybe a problem.Unused fixer: no problem.Used fixer: do not dump unless you remove the silver.Hypo clearing agent: uncertain, but you probably don’t use much anyway.Wetting agent: likely no problem.Water rinse baths: no problem (not enough in them to matter.)One way of disposing of what you cannot dump: pour it into a bucket and let it dry. When you accumulate enough crud, break it loose from the bottom of the bucket, double-bag in grocery bags, and toss in trash.Originally posted ages ago.(permalink)oldoinyo edited this topic ages ago.

william.olivesays:

tip your developers out on the grass, it will not be bothered by them. No need to flush them down the drain.stop bath is no problem, a small quantity of phenolthalien, just don’t drink it. It is a laxative.As others have said, either silver recover your fixer yourself, or take it somewhere where it can be done.ages ago(permalink)

justfilmsays:

In the old days we would dump it in the sink.ages ago(permalink)

screwy wabbitsays:

and all this time I thought it was okay to use my bare hands while deving a roll in a tank of D-76, but all this talk of hydroquinone being toxic to aquatic invertebrates has got me worried. so do I need to wear gloves now?:(ages ago(permalink)

MJM67says:

@Screwy-why don’t research hydroquinine on the Internet? One thing people lose track of it the quantity of the chemical we are talking about. For me I develop film one or twice a month, and dump everything into the public sewer system. The solution to pollution is dilution. The one liter of fixer I dump down the drain gets diluted to the point that the silver content probably would not be detectable at the treatment plant. Developer and stop both break down pretty quickly too. Really have you looked at whats in things like drain cleaner, detergents, and such. If I did mass quantities or I thought there were a 1000 darkrooms in my town of 100,000 I would take a different approach. Or on a septic system I would dispose of fixer another way only because of the silver. Steelwool to remove the silver then dump the spent fixer down the drain would be my first route. Dispose of the steelwool/silver properly.PS I have a degree in Geology and worked in environmental remediation for 6 years.ages ago(permalink)

Paride Corsetti m.O.n.a.says:

firs, glad to know kids still love film.then, the best thing is to collect used chemicals and bring them to a special waste center. that said i dump all in the public sewer.ages ago(permalink)

piltniksays:

As you stated, your house doesn’t have public sewer connection. So to avoid possible killing of the helpful bacteria in septic system, I’d advise to collect used chemicals into 1 gallon jugs.ages ago(permalink)

cool-babysays:

REuse your chemicals other than film developer.and use caffenol(coffee) for that.Problem solved.ages ago(permalink)

BeccaGsays:

My suggestion would be to read the chemical safety information sheets for the specific products you intend using and see what they say.I have a set of chemical certified bottles specifically for storing waste chems, which when full, I shall take to someone to dispose of in a safe manner.ages ago(permalink)

AluminumStudiossays:

You can solve the fixer problem by putting steel wool in the used fixer and letting it sit for a while.The silver will precipitate out and solidify.I’ve heard that these solids are acceptable to throw away in the trash.The sliver will be mixed with iron from the steel wool, so it’s not easy to recover and collect.I do have a few flakes though that formed on the inside of the bottle.ages ago(permalink)

inetjokersays:

Some people use spent fixer as a bug repellent by pouring it around there house foundation.ages ago(permalink)

AluminumStudiossays:

Spent fixer contains dissolved silver which is a heavy metal and toxic to many living things (not humans strangely – many Japanese deodorants and other products contain silver ions), so I wouldn’t recommend pouring it outside as-is for bug repellent.ages ago(permalink)

busy snowsays:

Unless you have a serious termite problem.It’s better than using something like lead arsenate, which is one of the evil compounds they used to use in the early 20th century.Lead arsenate. How much more evil can a chemical compound sound?ages ago(permalink)

busy snowsays:

Actually scratch what I say, it wasbunch of nonsense pouring out of my head.Just call a professional if you have a bug problem.ages ago(permalink)

Inukshuk -says:

An interesting thread in APUG regarding used fixer:ages ago(permalink)

gary99099says:

I just got my first bottle of Rodinal. I read the MSD sheet. It sounds like some wicked stuff. How do you Rodinal users dispose of it? Down the drain or what?119 months ago(permalink)

Steve M Smithsays:

The MSD for ordinary water sounds terrible too:119 months ago(permalink)

inetjokersays:

Well Let me see. Rodinal is diluted 1-25 or more. you use a small amount. The most wicked thing I see in it is Lye. Drain cleaner is concentrated lye or worse. and it is designed to go down a drain. A cup of bleach in a washing machine is most likely to cause more trouble as many people use it where the Rodinal I can tell you in my town I know 3 people who use it.Now this is for a sewage system as for aseptic system I am pretty sure that the dilution of a few rolls a week will not do any damage.Hair dye now has the same ingredient as Color developer. It goes down the drain more every day than the amount of Rodinal does.119 months ago(permalink)

idrouggesays:

No! What’s the problem with disposing toxics where they belong instead of pouring it into your drinking water?119 months ago(permalink)

gary99099says:

Down the drain it is then. My drains a little slow anyway, it might clear it out.119 months ago(permalink)

idrouggesays:

Not if you pour developer into it, it only makes it worse.119 months ago(permalink)

Tony WASsays:

Dilution is the solution to pollution.Down the drain, unless you have a septic tank.119 months ago(permalink)

mattmoy_2000says:

Cadmium chloride is a terrifying chemical that I sometimes have to handle.It’s so poisonous that it will give your as-yet unconceived children cancer if you ingest it.It makes potassium cyanide seem like marzipan in comparison. At least with that, either it kills you or it doesn’t. Cd gets in in tiny amounts and stays there, forever.It was also (until fairly recently) used to manufacture various photographic emulsions (Panatomic-x and Neopan, I believe both contained it).Edit: I compared it to KCN because they are both photo-chemicals and I handle both occasionally for my PhD. I am more scared of the Cd salts than of the CN salts, which should say something, given that KCN was once marketed as “Zyklon B”.Originally posted 119 months ago.(permalink)mattmoy_2000 edited this topic 119 months ago.

cj8281says:

One shot developers go down the drain, I take my fixer to my local lab and they put it through their silver extractor and then it goes down the drain (they do that for me).119 months ago(permalink)

Tony WASsays:

The amount is so low it’s practically meaningless.119 months ago(permalink)

inetjokersays:

, you got it. dilution works for me., keep up the studies and stop worrying so much.119 months ago(permalink)

Would you like to comment?

Sign upfor a free account, orsign in(if you’re already a member).

Photochemical Waste Management

Despite the fact that photochemical concentrates may come with prominent danger warnings on their packaging and in Material Safety Data Sheets, once diluted and exhausted, their environmental toxicity is also diluted and exhausted. Nonetheless, they should not be discharged into the environment without proper consideration. Because we like the analog world in which we live, we should take care to ensure that photo-processing trash is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Knowing your local regulations, where your chemicals go, and how they are treated if they are flushed down the toilet are all critical to your safety.

More specialized users, such as photo finishers, are subject to additional requirements.

Users in other countries should look into their own national and municipal systems for dealing with domestic chemical wastes before making a decision.

These facilities are offered to the general public for the collection of goods from residential usage that should not be disposed of through municipal garbage, septic, or sewage systems, as well as for other purposes.

The vast majority of home hobbyist photographers fall far below this threshold.

To find out if the POTW would accept your garbage, you need contact them directly.

Thus, they are compatible with aerobic (with oxygen) biological treatment systems and may be adequately treated when discharged to municipal wastewater systems, such as those operated by publicly owned treatment works (POTWs).

In order to be certain, check with your local municipality.

As a result, septic systems are incapable of appropriately treating the effluents generated during photography processing.

A number of parameters, including pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Ammonia as Nitrogen, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), have typically been established as limits (TDS).

If you are discharging to the local sewer system, you should obtain and review the discharge requirements for your area before determining whether your photographic processing effluent can meet the limits established by your local municipality.

The pH of photo-processing effluent and the content of silver are two important factors to consider.

Fixer has a low pH and is, as a result, somewhat acidic.

These are released in an approximately 2 to 1 ratio, along with a significant amount of wash water (1/2 to 3 gallons per minute) and other waste.

Business owners are responsible for properly disposing of spent or unwanted processing chemicals, as well as scrap film and paper, through the employment of a registered waste disposal company.

International, national, and local regulations often apply, and strict limitations are imposed on businesses regarding which chemicals can be disposed of and in what quantities.

Photographers should look at the arrangements that are in place in their particular location.

We do not recommend that you dispose of unwanted or unused photographic processing solution in your standard garbage can since it might contaminate the environment.

Another important feature of photo-processing effluent is the amount of silver present in the photographic fixer or bleach-fix effluent after processing.

Silver can either be maintained in the photographic material or transferred to the solutions used to treat the photographic materials after they have been processed.

Like one-shot chemistry only retains trace quantities of silver, refilled solutions retain far larger concentrations of silver waste than chemistry that has been repeated until it has reached its maximum capacity.

It’s possible that amateur photographers won’t be compelled to recover silver.

It has environmental benefits, helps to protect a natural resource and may even be a source of cash recovery.

A good approach for recovering silver from photographic processing effluent for lower volume users such as hobbyist photographers is to employ metallic replacement rather than electrolysis.

Silver is replaced by iron in solution, whereas silver, which is a less active metal, settles out as a sludge that is difficult to remove.

The steel wool serves as a supply of iron, which is used to replace the silver.

Because you are a photographer, you have an unusual sensitivity to the surroundings in which you work.

While you may not have to worry about the environmental and safety standards that apply to commercial enterprises as an amateur photographer, you should still be aware of the proper handling and disposal of photographic processing chemicals.

And, as always, exercise caution.

References and external links are provided. Management and disposal of household hazardous waste in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Materials Management, Bureau of Waste Reduction and Recycling (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation).

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *