All solvent soaked cloths or waste should be disposed of in which container and removed from the work area?

• A. Air-tight metal container
• B. Open waste bin
• C. Plastic bag
• D. Paper bag

Answer: (A)

Flammable solvent waste needs to be kept in a closed, noncombustible container to prevent vapor buildup and fire risk. An air-tight metal container traps any vapors released by the solvents and keeps them away from oxygen and ignition sources, while a metal interior resists corrosion from the solvents. This waste should also be removed from the work area promptly to minimize exposure to heat or sparks. Open waste bins let vapors escape and can ignite, plastic bags may not resist solvent degradation and can still let vapors build up, and paper bags are highly flammable and unsafe for solvent waste.