Household Hazardous Waste

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) is a term used to describe chemicals that could potentially harm the environment or human health, safety, and welfare if they come into contact with people (skin contact or ingestion) or are disposed of improperly (which generally leads to a potential for pollution). When purchasing chemicals or chemical products, watch for a signal words on the product label which indicate the hazard level. Signal words to look for are CAUTION (least dangerous....mild/moderate risk), WARNING (moderate hazard), DANGER (extremely corrosive, toxic, or flammable) and POISON (highly toxic).

When dealing with HHW, be safe and follow these suggestions:

• Read and follow label directions;
• Store chemicals away from heat or flames;
• DO NOT mix products (deadly gases may be released);
• Keep the label and container intact;
• Store out of the reach of children;
• Prevent products from freezing (especially important for paints); and
• buy only what you need and use it all up.

Questions concerning the disposal of household hazardous waste should be directed to: Tri-County Household Hazardous Waste at 800-450-6140.

At least one Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection event is hosted by Sherburne County each year. For more information about this service, please call the Sherburne County Zoning and Solid Waste Office at 763-765-4450