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How to Dispose of Light Ballasts

A light ballast is the part of a fluorescent or neon lamp that regulates the voltage and current flow. Older models work by electromagnetic induction, but more recent electronic light ballasts use a solid-state circuit instead. Until 1979, nearly every light ballast contained polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCB---a substance considered hazardous by the EPA. This fact complicates the disposal of light ballasts, and requires you to take special precautions when throwing away an old fluorescent lamp.

Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the light ballast for a label marked "No PCBs." If the ballast has such a label, you can safely dispose of it the same way as any other electrical device. Any light ballast not labeled as such, however, has to be treated as if it does contain PCBs.

    • 2

      Ascertain whether the ballast is damaged in any way, or if it is leaking. A punctured ballast is more hazardous than an intact one, and its disposal is subject to more stringent regulation. Do not touch any oily substance that may be leaking from the light ballast---this is PCB, which is potentially carcinogenic.

    • 3

      Consult your state's regulations regarding PCB-containing ballast disposal, and follow them. If your state has no specific rules in this area, follow the federal regulations.

    • 4

      Notify the CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act) response center, run by the EPA, if you are disposing of more than twelve or fifteen light ballasts. You can call them at (800) 424-8802.

    • 5

      Seal non-leaking ballasts in a 55-gallon drum and take them to a Subtitle D landfill. You can also take the ballasts to a PCB ballast recycling company, where they will remove the metal parts for reuse.

    • 6

      Take any leaking ballasts to an EPA-approved high-temperature incinerator to be destroyed. Do not allow the ballasts to come in contact with anything not disposable, as any object contaminated by PCB is also considered hazardous waste. Call (202) 554-1404 to reach the TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) hotline regarding handling and disposal details.

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