March 21, 2011
Get the lead out!
Certain types of autoclave tape used in laboratories may contain enough lead to make the tape a hazardous waste. If your tape has angled or diagonal stripes on it, it contains lead. If your tape has the word "autoclaved" on it, most likely it is lead-free. If you're unsure whether your tape contains lead, please refer to this flier.
Turn in your tape: To get rid of your lead-containing autoclave tape, submit a pickup request and in return receive a free roll of lead-free autoclave tape (Fisherbrand Self-Sticking Tape, 3/4" lead free, Catalog #1599934A). The free roll will be available for one month from the date of this e-mail or until supplies run out. You can schedule a pickup of your autoclave tape through our website at http://www.k-state.edu/safety/environmental/hazardous-waste/, or through our environmental health and safety assistant on our Web page at http://www.k-state.edu/safety/.
Purchase lead-free tape -- The following autoclave tapes are lead-free:
* Fisherbrand Autoclave Tape (#1599934A)
* VWR - VWR Autoclave Indicator Tape (VWR#: 73390-064)
* VWR - Autoclave Indicator Tape, TimeMed Labeling (TSI-534, VWR#: 14217-334)
* Biostores - Autoclave Tape, Product No. 219350
* SPS Medical - Latex/Lead Free Steam Indicator Tape, Product #: LF2-048
Contact the department of environmental health and safety at 785-532-5856 with questions or for additional information. Please help us in our initiative to "Get the Lead Out!"