Skip to main content
Environmental Health and Safety

Aerosol Cans and Sprays

Federal Definition: An aerosol can is a non-refillable container that holds a gas under pressure and dispenses a product in the form of a spray, mist, or foam. This includes cans containing paints, solvents, adhesives, lubricants, pesticides, food products, disinfectants, and other pressurized substances.epa.gov, law.cornell.edu. Aerosol cans are considered universal waste under the EPA’s final rule (effective February 7, 2020) and adopted in Illinois and other states. They are regulated if they contain residual product or propellant and cannot be discarded as regular trash due to ignitability, reactivity, or toxicity risks.         

Why They’re Regulated: 

Many aerosol cans contain flammable propellants (e.g., propane, butane) or hazardous ingredients (e.g., solvents, paints, pesticides). Even when “empty,” cans may retain pressure and can explode when punctured or incinerated. Improper disposal can lead to fires, air pollution, and exposure to toxic substances. 

Label: 

  • Containers holding aerosol cans must be labeled with: “Universal Waste Aerosol Cans”
  • The accumulation start date (when the first aerosol can is placed in the container)  

Storage: 

  • Store aerosol cans in closed, structurally sound containers (e.g., steel drums, heavy-duty plastic containers).
  • Keep containers upright, labeled, and away from ignition sources.
  • Accumulation start date must be clearly visible on each container.
  • Do not crush, puncture, or incinerate  

Transport & Records:

Aerosol cans must be shipped only to authorized universal waste handlers or recyclers. Ensure packaging complies with DOT regulations for pressurized containers.  
 
What NOT to do: 

Do not discard aerosol cans in the regular trash or municipal recycling bins 

  • Many are considered hazardous waste. 

Do not puncture cans unless you’re using an approved, vented, filtered aerosol can puncturing system. 

Do not store near open flames or heat sources 

  • Pressurized cans may explode under high temperatures. 

Do not store damaged or leaking cans without secondary containment. 

Do not flip or lay down containers 

  • Make sure they are standing up to prevent any leaks or spills 

Spill response/DDR: 

  • Do not attempt to puncture or discharge a leaking aerosol can by hand.
  • Evacuate the area and isolate if fumes are present.
  • Ventilate the area immediately.
  • Wear PPE: chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and in some cases, a respirator.
  • Place the can in a secondary containment container, such as a sealed plastic bucket with absorbent material.  
    Label container: “Leaking Aerosol Can Universal Waste”.
  • Contact EHS for cleanup and proper handling at (309) 438-8325 or call 911 for emergencies. 

How employees handle waste 

  • Used aerosol cans are placed into designated collection boxes
  • Each box is labeled and dated when the first aerosol can is added.
  • Containers are kept closed and upright and stored away from heat sources.
  • Our EHS team will reduce pressure inside the cans by pulling the pin that keeps the container pressurized, allowing it to fill with air and become non-hazardous.
  • EHS periodically inspects the collection drums for leaks, pressure build-up, or damage.
  • The safe, non-pressurized containers are thrown away and turned to scrap metal.

Storage & Labeling Requirements (EPA): 

  • Cans must be labeled as "Universal Waste Aerosol Cans" and include the accumulation start date.
  • Storage time limit: one year, unless longer time is needed to facilitate recycling/disposal.