Organic solvents can also harm the environment because they are generally toxic and water soluble. When solvents are released and reach water, even in very small quantities, they may render the water unfit for human consumption and uninhabitable for aquatic life. Many organic solvents are also flammable which makes them dangerous to use. Most vehicle degreasing can now be accomplished with water-based cleaners. The use of water-based cleaners can help minimize your shops regulatory burdens and waste disposal costs.
Most chlorinated solvents are hazardous due to their toxicity.
An MSDS must be provided with each chemical by the vendor. Chlorinated organic solvents may be included in such products as carburetor cleaners, engine degreasers, and brake cleaners. Solvents such as petroleum naptha or mineral spirits are common parts washer solutions and are typically hazardous. However, you should always carefully check the MSDS storage and disposal section for listed or characteristic hazardous ingredients. Also, you will have to determine whether the waste cleaner has been made hazardous due to your parts cleaning operation.