Chapter 2 - Responsibilities
All chemical users have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure the proper disposal of any hazardous waste generated. There are various state and federal regulations that govern the disposal of chemical wastes. There are also criminal and civil penalties that can result from improper disposal of these wastes. In addition to potential citations, fines, and imprisonment, improper waste disposal can also result in national media attention and damage to the University’s reputation.
You also have a moral responsibility to properly dispose of chemicals that can pose a present or potential hazard to human health or the environment.
The Cornell University management procedure for the policy on environmental health and safety can be found in the Environment, Health and Safety Policy 8.6. The following outlines the liability issues, potential penalties, and specific responsibilities for the management of hazardous wastes.