The Dangers of Improper Disposal of Used Motor Oil

September 26, 2022

You will likely come across motor oil if you’re an automobile owner, shop mechanic, or business owner. Knowing how to dispose of it properly is paramount to keeping your business, home, or workplace in the best conditions. Here is some information about motor oil disposal you should know. 

The Dangers of Improper Disposal of Used Motor Oil

You might think of motor oil as a benefactor and necessity for your vehicle. While it is a lifesaver for automobile engines, it can be a detriment to the environment, pets, and other people. It contains highly toxic chemicals, so it is vital to know the proper way to get rid of used motor oil. 

Should You Throw Used Motor Oil in the Trash?

Someone may have once informed you why you should throw motor oil in the trash. The person who told you that might have been ill-informed about proper oil disposal. Oil ends up in garbage dumps when you put it in the trash. Then the used oil eventually contaminates the ground and causes environmental issues. 

Accidents can also occur when someone disposes of motor oil improperly. The oil can somehow end up on the floor and cause a slip hazard for visitors, customers, and employees. 

The best thing to do with used oil is to ensure it gets to a place where someone can treat it and reuse it. 

What Do You Do With Used Motor Oil?

When working with motor oil, you must take the time to keep it in the appropriate containers and take it to a legitimate place where someone will treat it and prepare it for reuse. Keep the oil in containers that don’t have any other liquids in them, such as antifreeze or other products.

You have two choices about where to go with the used oil. 

Many automotive shops take used oil from customers and community members. They have holding tanks and work with other companies that relieve them of the used oil and take it for processing. You may have to sign a book when you offer the oil to the automotive shop, but the process will likely only take a few minutes. Call or walk in, and ask for information about the procedure if you’re concerned, and then schedule a convenient time to take the oil. 

Your neighborhood might also have a municipal recycling office where you can deliver the used oil. The service will be free and will only take a few minutes of your time. You don’t have to take the oil right away. You can wait until you have enough oil to take. However, you should keep the oil in the proper container and shelve it somewhere safe away from children, heat, and the potential for puncturing and spillage. 

By taking one of the steps mentioned above, you can play your part in keeping the environment clean and safe. Contact Safeway Used Oil and Grease to help you safely dispose of motor oil. Think twice before you dispose of your oil carelessly and help the world out a little. 

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