Paints/Aerosols Best Practices 

Even when not required by environmental regulations, the following best practices are recommended. In some instances, best practices presented here are actually required by regulations.

1. Implement a "first in, first out" use pattern for aerosol cans and order new cans on an as needed basis to ensure that cans are used up prior to opening new cans.
2. Carefully determine whether spent aerosol cans are hazardous or non-hazardous. If contents and/or propellant remain(s) in the can, it is likely a hazardous waste; if there is neither content nor propellant, then it is likely a non-hazardous waste.
3. To minimize disposal costs, ensure that truly empty aerosol containers are either sent to a scrap-metal recycler or disposed of in the trash.
4. Minimize excess liquid paint by making efficient use of paint "poured" for use (i.e., use what you pour).

To minimize the likelihood of discharge of pollutants to storm water from outdoor loading and unloading of paint materials, adhere to the following best practices:

1. Avoid transferring materials close to storm drain inlets.
2. Transfer liquids only in paved areas. Portland cement paving should be used if the liquid is asphalt reactive.
3. Provide contractors and haulers with copies of pertinent best management practices (BMPs). Require contractor/hauler adherence to BMP specifications. Verify proper waste disposal practices of contractors.
4. Protect all loading/unloading activities from rainfall, run-on and wind dispersal to the maximum extent practicable. Viable options include conducting loading/unloading under existing cover, or moving indoors.
5. Maintain adequate supplies of spill response equipment and materials in accessible locations near areas where spills may be likely to occur.
6. Clean up minor spills immediately.
7. Conduct regular inspections of storage and containment equipment and promptly correct deficiencies to this equipment as necessary.

Storing material outdoors, whether it is equipment, chemicals or containers, can result in potential storm water contamination. Follow these best practices to minimize potential impacts to storm water runoff:

1. Avoid dispensing from drums positioned horizontally in cradles. Dispensing materials from upright drums equipped with hand pumps is preferred. Always use drip pans and self-closing spigots if dispensing from horizontally positioned drums.
2. Store drums and containers on pallets or other structures to keep the container out of contact with storm water.
3. Store all materials in their original containers or containers approved for that use. Ensure that all containers are appropriately sealed. Store empty containers indoors or under cover before moving them off-site.
4. Properly label all chemical containers with information, including their contents, hazards, spill response and first aid procedures, manufacturer's name and address, and storage requirements. Maintain copies of MSDS on file for any materials stored and/or handled.
5. Reduce the quantities of chemicals stored outside to the minimum volume required based on variables such as release potential, usage, storage capacity, and chemical shelf life.
6. Maintain adequate supplies of spill response equipment and materials in accessible locations near areas where spills may be likely to occur.
7. Post signs at all chemical storage locations in clearly visible locations noting the materials stored, emergency contacts, and spill cleanup procedures.
8. Perform and document periodic inspections in a logbook. Inspection items should include the following: external corrosion, structural failure, spills and overfills due to operator error, failure of piping system (pipes, pumps, flanges, couplings, hoses, and valves), visually inspect new tanks or containers for loose fittings, poor welds, and improper or poorly fitted gaskets, and inspect tank foundations and storage area coatings.

Training employees on proper procedures to reduce your facility's impact on the environment is a best practice. More detailed training information is provided in the regulatory requirements sections of the tour. Employee training may include the following:

1. Spill response training for personnel who paint products and other handle hazardous material,
2. Fork lift training,
3. Storm water pollution prevention education,
4. Right-to-know awareness training,
5. Hazardous materials management,
6. Emergency preparedness, and
7. Awareness-level training, for example, a general overview of the school's environmental management system.

To minimize the amount of waste generated at your facility, consider the following:

1. Mix only the amount of paint needed for a job.
2. Use self-contained sinks and tanks when cleaning with solvent.