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How to Dispose of Lead Acetate

Lead acetate is a white- to gray-colored, crystalline solid. It usually appears as small, dry flakes but may also be ground into a fine, soft powder. It is used primarily in dyes, varnishes and pesticides and is highly toxic. Lead acetate is irritating to the skin, eyes and mucus membranes and is carcinogenic and poisonous if ingested; when in its powdered form, it may also be inhaled. Because of its high toxicity, lead acetate must be handled carefully and disposed of in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's hazardous waste management guidelines.

Things You'll Need

Laboratory gloves
Laboratoy coat
Goggles
Metal, glass or plastic container with a lid.
Pen
Masking tape

Instructions

- 1
  Wear appropriate safety gear. Put on the gloves, lab coat and goggles. Make sure your skin, eyes and hands are adequately covered.
- 2
  Place the lead acetate in a clean metal, glass or plastic container and secure the lid. If the lid does not provide a tight seal, tape it shut.
- 3
  Indicate what is inside the container. "Lead acetate" should be written directly on the outside. If it's not possible to write on the container itself, write on a piece of masking tape and place it on the container's lid. If the lead acetate is dissolved in water, include the word "aqueous" or "aq."
- 4
  Take the container to an RCRA-approved facility. RCRA refers to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1977. It is administered by the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA has information about RCRA facilities on its website. It is also possible to locate appropriate facilities through your state's waste management office.

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