Handling Method 2:
Assume used photographic and x-ray development fluids to be a hazardous waste and land ashore in accordance with the requirements of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
Next Steps: To identify effective and efficient digital photo technology or other technologies to reduce hazardous waste stream generatron.
B. Dry-cleaning waste fluids and contaminated materials
Discussion
Shipboard dry cleaning facilities use a chlorinated solvent called perchlorethylene (also known as PERC or tetrachloroethylene) as a dry cleaning fluid. This is the approved dry cleaning solvent for these units. Operators must receive specific required training for the correct use of this chemical and its associated precautions. This solvent must be used in accordance with all safety procedures including appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
The dry cleaning units produce a small volume waste from condensate, the bottoms of the internal recovery stills, waste products from button and lint traps, spent perchloroethylene and filter media. This waste is comprised of dirt, oils, filter material, and spent solvent. Each ship utilizing these dry-cleaning units produces approximately two pounds of waste material weekly. However, the amount may vary greatly by season and passenger load. This material is classified as hazardous waste under RCRA and must be handled accordingly.
Industry Goal: To prevent the discharge of chlorinated dry-cleaning fluids, sludge, contaminated filter materials and other waste byproducts into the environment.
Handling Method:
Perchloroethylene (PERC) and other chlorinated dry-cleaning fluids, contaminated sludge and filter materials are hazardous waste and are to be landed ashore in accordance with the requirements of RCRA.
Next Steps: Research and investigate the use of alternative dry cleaning processes such as C02 and "wet" processes for use onboard ships.
C. Print Shop Waste Fluids
Discussion
Print shop waste may contain hazardous waste. Printing solvents, inks and cleaners all may contain hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and heavy metals that can be harmful to human and aquatic species. Recent advances in printing technology and substitution of chemicals that are less hazardous reduces the volume of print shop waste generated and reduces the impact of these waste products.
The cruise industry will, whenever possible, utilize both printing methods and the chemicals used in the printing process that produce both less volume of waste and less hazardous waste products. Shipboard printers will be trained in ways to minimize printing waste generated. Altemative printing inks such as soy based, non-chlorinated hydrocarbon based ink products will be used whenever possible. All printshop waste including waste solvents, cleaners, and cleaning cloths will be treated as hazardous waste, if such waste contains chemical components that may be considered as hazardous by regulatory definitions. A11 other waste will be treated as non-hazardous.
Industry Goal: To prevent the discharge of harmful printing materials (inks) and cleaning chemicals into the environment.
Handling Method 1:
When using traditional or non-soy based inks and chlorinated solvents, treat all print shop waste as hazardous and discharge ashore in accordancc with RCRA.
Handling Method 2:
Use non-toxic based printing ink such as soy based, non-chlorinated solvents, and other non-hazardous products to eliminate hazardous waste products.
Next Steps: Increased use of non-toxic based printing ink and non-chlorinated solvents and other non-hazardous products to eliminate the hazardous waste component within the stream.
D. Photo Copying and Laser Printer Cartridges
Discussion
Increased use of laser and photo copying equipment on shore as well as onboard ship results in the generation of increased volumes of waste cartridges, inks, and toner materials.
