Solvent cleaning

Solvent users need to comply with certain ozone-depleting substance (ODS) obligations.

What you must do

ODS obligations

The use of solvents containing ODS is banned for any solvent cleaning activities, including:

• Electronic circuit boards
• High-precision metal components (e.g. in aerospace)
• Optical components

This ban includes the following substances:

• Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
• 1-,1,1-Trichloroethane
• Chlorobromomethane
• Carbon tetrachloride

Disposal requirements 

If you discover any solvents containing ODS:

• Do not use them, as their use is banned
• Consult safety data sheets, to help determine if a substance is hazardous/special waste
• Dispose of them safely, as hazardous/special waste
• Use licenced facilities, who have the appropriate licences to deal with hazardous/special waste