Efficient Management of IPA Waste for UK Businesses
At Rubo Hazardous Waste Management, we are proud to provide tailored hazardous waste solutions for businesses across the UK. This case study highlights our work with a manufacturing client to regularly collect and sustainably dispose of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) waste.
The Challenge
The client generates significant volumes of IPA waste due to their industrial processes, which require the use of IPA for cleaning and production purposes. The waste consists primarily of:
IPA Residues: Highly flammable liquids classified under UN 1219, Class 3 (Flammable liquid).
Contaminated Packaging: 1-litre and 5-litre bottles used to store IPA, which require cleaning or safe disposal.
The waste posed several challenges, including:
Flammability: IPA is classified as H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), requiring strict precautions during handling and transport.
Environmental Concerns: Improper disposal could lead to contamination of waterways or soil due to its solubility and mobility.
The client required a compliant and sustainable solution to manage monthly collections and ensure minimal environmental impact.
Our Solution
Rubo implemented a comprehensive waste management plan tailored to the client’s needs, focusing on safety, compliance, and sustainability. Key steps included:
Segregation and Packaging:
IPA waste was safely stored in UN-approved containers to meet transport and storage regulations.
Contaminated bottles were segregated and prepared for transport, ensuring no residues posed environmental risks.
Documentation and Compliance:
Waste consignments were properly labelled with relevant HP Codes (HP3 – Flammable, HP4 – Irritant, HP14 – Ecotoxic).
Hazard classifications such as H319 (Causes serious eye irritation) and H336 (May cause drowsiness or dizziness) were clearly documented.
Sustainable Disposal:
The liquid IPA waste was transported to our licensed facility for recovery. This included repurposing the solvent for secondary industrial use or safe incineration to generate energy.
Contaminated packaging was cleaned and recycled wherever possible, reducing waste sent to landfill.
Teaching Moment: Why Proper IPA Management Matters
IPA, or Isopropyl Alcohol, is a commonly used solvent with properties that require careful handling:
Flammability: Flash point of 12°C and potential for explosive vapour-air mixtures.
Health Hazards: Prolonged exposure to vapours can cause irritation, dizziness, and central nervous system effects.
Environmental Impact: Soluble in water, IPA waste can easily spread if not contained properly, posing risks to aquatic life.
The Results
Volume Managed: 1,200 litres of IPA waste per month.
Sustainability Impact: Maximised recovery of IPA for reuse and energy production.
Client Benefits: Improved safety, streamlined waste management, and assurance of full regulatory compliance.
At Rubo, we specialise in managing hazardous waste streams like IPA, ensuring compliance, safety, and environmental sustainability.