Waste Disposal Guide

Guide for disposing specific chemical wastes into the correct colored waste containers.

Quick Check

python -m py_compile scripts/main.py
python scripts/main.py --help

When to Use

• Use this skill when identifying the correct waste container for a specific chemical.
• Use this skill when reviewing waste categories and safety precautions for laboratory chemicals.
• Do not use this skill for emergency spill response, disposal of radioactive materials, or regulated biological waste requiring special handling.

Workflow

1. Confirm the chemical name or waste type to look up.
2. Validate that the request is for standard laboratory chemical waste disposal guidance.
3. Look up the chemical in the waste category database and return the correct container color and safety notes.
4. Mixture handling: If the user provides a mixture (e.g., "chloroform + ethanol"), identify the most hazardous component and assign the container for that component. Emit a note: "Mixed waste containing halogenated solvents must go into the halogenated (orange) container regardless of other components."
5. If the chemical is not found, state that clearly and suggest the closest category based on chemical class.
6. If inputs are incomplete, state which fields are missing and request only the minimum additional information.

Usage

python scripts/main.py --chemical "chloroform"
python scripts/main.py --chemical "ethanol"
python scripts/main.py --list-categories
python scripts/main.py --safety

Parameters

Waste Categories

Mixture rule: When a waste stream contains both halogenated and non-halogenated solvents, use the halogenated (orange) container. When in doubt, consult your institution's EHS office.

Output

• Correct container color and category for the queried chemical
• Disposal instructions and safety precautions
• Notes on incompatible waste streams

Scope Boundaries

• This skill covers standard laboratory chemical waste categories; it does not cover radioactive, biological, or controlled substance waste.
• Local regulations may differ; always verify with your institution's EHS office before disposal.
• This skill does not provide emergency spill response guidance.