Silver-containing Waste: Spent X-ray Developer Solution

Used developer solutions are typically considered non-hazardous waste because their silver content is usually below the regulatory level of 5 mg/L. In most jurisdictions, the solution may be disposed of in the municipal sewer system if the pH is within 6 to 10.²¹ The State-by-State Hazardous Waste Resource Locator provides information for specific jurisdictions. Used developer solution should never be disposed of in a septic system, it will destabilize the system.⁸

Box J. Best management practices for the disposal of spent x-ray developer solution²¹

Discharge spent developer solution into the sanitary sewer system if the pH is within approved limits.
- DO NOT DISCHARGE SPENT DEVELOPER SOLUTION INTO A SEPTIC SYSTEM.
- DO NOT MIX SPENT DEVELOPER SOLUTION WITH FIXER SOLUTION.
If the pH is not within regulatory limits or the oral healthcare facility is on a septic system, collect and store spent developer solution in a container labeled “Hazardous Waste - Used Developer.”
- Once the container is full, have an approved hazardous waste transporter deliver it to an approved hazardous waste management facility.

If the x-ray processing system the facility uses mixes the spent developer and fixer and renders the solution hazardous waste, consider changing the equipment. It is also of note that unused developer solutions typically contain 1 to 5 percent hydroquinone. While this chemical is not considered hazardous waste by the EPA, it is neither listed nor characteristic, many state and local jurisdictions restrict its disposal. Consult the State-by-State Hazardous Waste Resource Locator.⁸

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