How should used OBA canisters be treated?

Used oxygen breathing apparatus (OBA) canisters contain materials that, when expended, may still pose health and environmental risks due to residues of chemicals or gasses they once contained. Because of this, it is critical to handle these canisters with care.

Treating used OBA canisters as hazardous materials (hazmat) is essential because they can potentially contain toxic substances or react in dangerous ways if not disposed of properly. Regulations in many jurisdictions dictate that hazardous materials need to be managed according to strict guidelines to prevent environmental contamination and ensure safety for those handling them.

On the other hand, treating them as regular waste, recyclable material, or general refuse could result in serious environmental harm or health risks, as inappropriate disposal may lead to chemical exposure or accidents during waste processing. Thus, the classification of used OBA canisters as hazmat underscores the importance of adhering to safety and environmental regulations when managing these materials.