Department of Biology
Chemicals that must not be disposed of down the sink
As a general principle, certain wastes are considered unacceptable for discharge to drain via sinks. These include:
- Persistent chemicals such as heavy metals and various organic compounds
- Water immiscible organic liquids such as petroleum hydrocarbons and chlorinated compounds
- Compounds which produce toxic vapours, such as cyanide, ammonia, formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde
- Strongly acidic or alkaline wastes
- Highly reactive chemicals or flammable wastes
- Mercury compounds
There are certain waste chemicals that SHOULD NEVER be disposed of down the sink into the sewerage system. This ‘Red List’ is taken from the UK Trade Effluent Regulations 1989.