Acid Bath and Base Bath Disposal SOP

Purpose:
To provide a safe and effective procedure for the disposal of the concentrated Acid Bath and
Base Bath solutions used in the cleaning of laboratory glassware.

Scope:
This SOP covers the neutralization, containment, and disposal of the Acid Bath (concentrated
hydrochloric or sulfuric acid) and Base Bath (saturated potassium or sodium hydroxide in
alcohol) solutions generated during the Glassware Cleaning process.

Procedure:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

a. Wear appropriate PPE, including a lab coat, safety goggles, and heavy-duty, chemical-
resistant gloves.
b. Perform all operations in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.

Acid Bath Disposal:

a. Slowly add a neutralizing agent, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or calcium carbonate
(CaCO3), to the Acid Bath solution while stirring continuously.
b. Continue adding the neutralizing agent until the solution reaches a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
c. Once neutralized, the solution can be safely flushed down the drain with copious amounts
of water.

Base Bath Disposal:

a. Slowly add a neutralizing agent, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) or acetic acid
(CH3COOH), to the Base Bath solution while stirring continuously.
b. Continue adding the neutralizing agent until the solution reaches a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
c. Once neutralized, the solution can be safely flushed down the drain with copious amounts
of water.
Waste Containment and Disposal:
a. Collect and label all neutralized waste solutions for proper disposal according to
institutional and local regulations.
b. Consult with the institution's hazardous waste management team for the appropriate
disposal methods.

Documentation and Training:

a. Maintain records of the Acid Bath and Base Bath disposal, including the initial and final
pH values, the volumes of solutions, and the amounts of neutralizing agents used.
b. Provide training to all laboratory personnel on the safe handling and disposal of the Acid
Bath and Base Bath solutions.