How should you dispose of excess organic solvents after their use in the lab?

Disposing of excess organic solvents properly is crucial for safety and environmental protection in the laboratory setting. The correct approach is to use a designated waste container specifically labeled for organic solvents. This procedure ensures that potentially hazardous materials are collected and handled according to safety regulations and environmental guidelines.

Organic solvents can be flammable, toxic, or environmentally harmful, so they should never be discarded in regular trash, flushed down the sink, or mixed with water and poured out. Each of these improper disposal methods poses significant risks, such as contaminating water supplies or creating hazardous waste situations. Therefore, using the approved waste container is essential for safe laboratory practices and compliance with waste disposal regulations.