7. Disposal of empty containers

Empty pesticide containers should be immediately and safely disposed of in a way that presents no hazard to humans, animals or edible or valuable vegetation. They should not be kept for any purpose whatsoever and should be either destroyed immediately after use or, in the case of durable containers, returned to the manufacturer, after decontamination where appropriate.

Paper and cardboard packaging should, unless the label indicates the contrary, be burnt and the ashes buried. However, burning pesticide containers may give off toxic fumes, and exposure to these fumes should be prevented. Where large quantities are burned regularly, the installation of a special incinerator is advisable.

Small metal containers should be flattened and glass containers broken; they should then be buried where they cannot contaminate water supplies.

Empty pesticide drums should never be filled with anything that will come into contact with material for human or animal use or consumption. They may be returned to the manufacturer or buried after crushing or perforation to make them unusable. Prior to burial or dispatch, drums should be rinsed out with water to which may be added caustic soda or household detergent.