3.1. Pack up

Part 1. Packing up items

All of the components that you use for testing (beakers, syringes, pipettes, titrators, etc.) should be cleaned and dried prior being stored back in the kit. As a general rule, rinse everything three times for pack down. Staining on the glassware or dried water droplets can lead to contamination concerns.

Follow each test instructions in this manual for the cleaning procedures of all of the equipment. Leave all equipment to dry overnight. It is extremely important that everything is dry completely.

The foam in the black box is chemical resistant. If you get any spills on here (although you shouldn't be testing over your kit, but on a flat table surface), simply wipe the droplets with clean paper towel and put into your solid waste container.

Part 2. How to dispose of your waste

Solid Waste Container

The solid waste container is for used gloves used paper towels, empty reagent packaging and any other rubbish from testing.

Please separate your solid waste - put your paper towel in a recycling bin and the rest in a landfill bin.

Please empty your liquid and solid waste container each testing day. Don't worry about washing out your liquid or solid waste containers.

Liquid Waste Container

Option 1 - most preferred option - Dilute and flush down a sewage system toilet.

If you have access to a toilet on a sewage system, is to dilute the liquid waste with twice the volume of tap water and then flush it down the toilet.

Option 2 - second preferred option - Pour on a patch of bare earth

Pour liquid waste on patches of bare earth at home, well away from any waterways. Then tip a bucket of water in the same spot to dilute these chemicals.

Option 3 - least preferred option - Dilute and flush down a septic system toilet

If you have a septic system, dilute the liquid and flush down the toilet. If you’re concerned about the septic system, flush ½ cup of yoghurt down the toilet at the same time.

Do not put the liquid waste in your compost system, even if diluted.

Store the kit in a cool dark cupboard or place. Place it flat on its base - not standing up on the side with the handle on top.

Ensure the kit is securely closed to prevent humidity and moisture from getting into it.

Before storing, ensure all bottle lids on chemicals are tight and all equipment is dry.

Never leave kits in hot cars or places as it can affect the chemicals and EC meter.