The Silver Council - Dallasdallascityhall.com/departments/waterutilities... · the silver is removed from the film and paper and goes into the solutions. Silver should be recovered

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TThhee SSiillvveerr CCoouunncciillThe Silver Council is a national group of trade associations, technical societies, municipalities,and government agencies whose members are vitally affected by the regulation of silver. TheSilver Council’s purpose is to encourage communications between the regulatory and regulatedcommunities, to support scientific research, and to share current scientific, technical andeconomic information about silver so that the common goals of pollution prevention, recycling,water conservation, and compliance can be met.

The Silver Council5454 Wisconsin AvenueSuite 1510Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815Telephone: (301) 664-5150Fax: (301) 664-5156

This document may be reproduced in its entirety without permission for distribution at no charge to photo processors.

Copyright © 1997 by National Association of Photographic Manufacturers, Inc.

2/19/97

2/19/97CCooddee ooff MMaannaaggeemmeenntt PPrraaccttiiccee GGuuiiddee ffoorr PPhhoottoo PPrroocceessssoorrss

TThhee CCooddee ooff MMaannaaggeemmeenntt PPrraaccttiiccee GGuuiiddee ffoorr PPhhoottoo PPrroocceessssoorrss The Code of Management Practice Guide for Photo Processors is a set of recommendedoperating procedures designed to reduce both the amount of silver and the overall volume ofsolutions discharged to the drain.

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The Code of Management Practice Guide for Photo Processors does not supercede existing localregulations. Use this Guide only after the local municipality has adopted the Code ofManagement Practice for Silver Dischargers into regulation. Use of this Guide where the Codehas not been adopted may cause the photo processor to be out of compliance with localregulations. Before using the Guide, each photo processor should check with the localgovernment agency to determine its regulatory requirements. For more information contact TheSilver Council.


AAcckknnoowwlleeddggeemmeennttss

Many individuals representing the photo processing industry have contributed to the Code ofManagement Practice Guide for Photo Processors. This Guide is the direct result of theirparticipation in the committee process. We gratefully acknowledge all of these contributions.

The participants volunteered their time and expertise, thus ensuring this Guide provides anapproach written by photo processors, for photo processors. Our thanks to each of these peopleand their companies. Special thanks go to The Silver Council and the Photo Marketing AssociationInternational for funding this project.

Mr. George Champagne, Jr. Abar Color Labs

Mr. Harvey Fowler, Jr. Eastman Kodak Company

Mr. Tom Kelly Ritz Camera Centers

Ms. Tammy Nelson Konica USA Inc.

Mr. Brian Noble Noble’s Camera Shop

Mr. Jim Noller Eckerd Corporation

Mr. Herb Stein Photo Imaging Consultant

Mr. Scott Summers Eastman Kodak Company

Mr. Ron Willson, Committee Chair Photo Marketing Association International

Mr. Bert Wilson Olan Mills, Inc.

Mr. Dick Woolley Qualex Inc.

Dr. Judith Zaczkowski Envision Compliance Ltd., Environmental consultant


Part 11.0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1 Regulating Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2a. Concentration-based Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2b. Performance-based Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

A CMP Success Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.0 Determining the Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Small Photo Processor Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4How to Use the Medium and Large Photo Processor Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . 6Medium and Large Photo Processor Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3.0 Small Photo Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.1 Compliance Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.2 Equipment Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

a. Electrolytic Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9b. One or Two Chemical Recovery Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10c. Electrolytic Unit Followed by a Chemical Recovery Cartridge . . 11d. Off-site Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

4.0 Medium Photo Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134.1 Compliance Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134.2 Equipment Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

a. Electrolytic Unit Followed by a Chemical Recovery Cartridge . . 14b. Two or More Chemical Recovery Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15c. Precipitation Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16d. Evaporation or Distillation Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17e. Off-site Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

5.0 Large Photo Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195.1 Compliance Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195.2 Equipment Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

a. Electrolytic Unit Followed by Two or More Chemical Recovery Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

b. Electrolytic Unit Followed by Precipitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21c. Evaporation or Distillation Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22d. Off-site Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Table of Contentsi


ii

Part 21.0 Pollution Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

1.1 Put a Team Together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25a. Management Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25b. Staff Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Pollution Prevention Team Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

1.2 Review Your Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28a. Management Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Process Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Inventory Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Spill Response Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Good Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Safety and Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Management Practices Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

b. Equipment Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Squeegees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33In-line Silver Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Counter-Current Wash Tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Low-Flow Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Equipment Modifications Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

c. Process Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Low Replenishment Chemicals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Solution Regeneration and Reuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Washless Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Water Reuse and Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Dry Chemicals and Automated Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Process Modifications Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

d. Solid Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Solid Waste Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

1.3 Develop a P2 Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Screening Your Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Worksheet for Screening Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Point System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Writing the P2 Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Pollution Prevention Plan Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

1.4 Put the Plan in Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 411.5 Track Your Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Worksheet for Evaluating P2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Spread the Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Table of Contents

2/19/97.

iii

AppendicesAppendix A Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Appendix B Electrolytic Silver Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Appendix C Chemical Recovery Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Appendix D Precipitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Appendix E Evaporation and Distillation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Appendix F Off-Site Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Appendix G Ion Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58Appendix H Testing for Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Appendix I Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Small Photo Processor Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Medium and Large Photo Processor Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Sample Spill Contingency Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Worksheet for Screening Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Pollution Prevention Plan Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Worksheet for Evaluating P2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Table of Contents



1

Photo processing effluent is a by-productof processing photographic films andpapers. After silver recovery, this effluent isgenerally discharged to the drain where itgoes to the publicly owned treatmentworks (POTW) for treatment, and eventualrelease back to the environment.

Silver is the component of film and paperthat makes it possible to form an image.While it’s not an ingredient of freshphotographic solutions, during processingthe silver is removed from the film andpaper and goes into the solutions. Silvershould be recovered from silver-richsolutions before they are discharged to thedrain because:

• silver is a non-renewable resource,

• some cities/towns restrict the amountof silver that can be discharged, and

• silver has economic value.

Effective silver recovery requires equipmentthat is appropriate to the size and activitiesof the photo processor. It also requiresimplementing a sound preventivemaintenance program. Providing you withthis silver recovery information is theprimary focus of the Code of ManagementPractice Guide for Photo Processors.

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The other element of the Guide is pollutionprevention. In addition to recovering silverefficiently, photo processors should beconcerned with minimizing the amount ofwaste they create. Waste solutions areliterally money down the drain. In caseswhere the solutions can’t be discharged toa drain, it costs money for off-site disposal.That’s why it makes sense to minimizewaste in the first place. The second half ofthe Guide details several activities a photoprocessor can undertake to reduce wasteand save money.

The Code of Management Practice Guidefor Photo Processors is an industry-recommended guide. It is NOT a legalrequirement. It was written by people justlike yourselves — people who managephoto processing labs.

The Guide takes the guesswork out ofdetermining the specific silver recoveryconfigurations and preventivemaintenance activities you need. Termsused throughout this Guide are defined inthe Glossary of Terms (Appendix A).

1.0 Introduction

A silver-rich solution is a solution thatcontains sufficient silver that

cost-effective recovery can be doneeither on-site or off-site. Silver-rich

solutions include fix, bleach-fix, stabilizer from washless systems, and

low flow wash.

Part 1


2

Municipal regulators focus on silver andrestrict the quantity allowed to bedischarged to the drain.

aa.. CCoonncceennttrraattiioonn--bbaasseedd lliimmiittssThe traditional means of restricting silver isto write concentration-based numericallimits into the city sewer ordinance. Forexample, silver may be restricted to 5 parts per million (ppm).* This means thatfor every million parts of effluent, there canbe no more than five parts of silver.

Concentration-based limits have beenshown to be a poor way to regulate photoprocessors for several reasons:

1. Our industry strives to conserve waterthrough washless processing, counter-current plumbing, wash water recyclingand low replenishment chemicals. Aswe use less water, the concentration ofsilver in the effluent increases.Concentration-based limits, therefore,actually penalize those who practicewater conservation.

2. Municipal and state sewage treatmentauthorities ideally develop pretreatmentlimitations by conducting a study of thePOTW waste water coming into thesewage treatment plant and the treatedwater going out of the plant. Throughsuch a study, they can determine thepresence and quantities of pollutantsand their removal through the treatmentprocess. The discharge of treated wastewater should not impact the waterquality of the receiving body of water.Development of pretreatment limitations

without scientific methods has resultedin widely varied and often unrealisticrestrictions across the country.

3. The sampling point used to determinewhether or not a limit is being met isdetermined by the city. It may be theproperty line manhole or a pointwhere all process waste water iscombined. This introduces additionalvariation from city to city.

4. Our industry’s ability to recover silvercost-effectively is dependent upon theequipment available in themarketplace. Restrictions in somejurisdictions are so stringent they cannot be met with the best availabletechnology that is economicallyachievable.

Through the use of this Guide, the photoprocessing industry, together with the localagency can cooperatively regulate silverdischarges to sewer. This Guide offers auniform approach to regulation from cityto city. Most existing restrictions areunachievable given today’s technology andthe industry goal of conserving water. Eventhough concentration-based limits are usedwidely by cities across the country, theyare not the best way to regulate the photoprocessing industry.

bb.. PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee--bbaasseedd lliimmiittssPerformance-based limits are spelled outas a percentage of the silver that must berecovered from silver-rich solutions. Theselimits provide environmental protectionwhile taking into consideration the amountof silver-rich solutions generated by thephoto processor and the capability of thebest available technology (equipment)economically achievable.

* ppm is the same measurement as milligrams per liter(mg/L).

1.1 Regulating Silver


3

Photo processors are grouped into fourcategories:

• A small photo processor isone that produces less thantwo gallons per day of silver-rich solutions and no morethan 1,000 gallons per day of totalprocess effluent. Small labs mustrecover silver to at least 90 percentefficiency.

• A medium photo processor isone that produces more thantwo gallons and less than 20gallons per day of silver-richsolutions and no more than 10,000gallons per day of total processeffluent. Medium labs must recoversilver to at least 95 percent efficiency.

• A large photo processor isone that produces more than20 gallons per day of silver-rich solutions and more than10,000 gallons per day of total processeffluent. Large labs must recover silverto at least 99 percent efficiency.

• A significant industrial user (SIU) isone that discharges more than25,000 gallons per day of total processeffluent. SIUs have no set percentagerecovery efficiency as each SIU isindividually permitted by the city.

Performance-based limits are realistic,given the technology currently available tophoto processors. Performance-basedlimits that are uniform across the countrywould provide a level-playing field for allphoto processors and allow the industry toself-regulate. Performance-based limits arethe best way to ensure environmentalprotection while providing economicincentive to the photo processor.

90%

99%

95%

AA CCMMPP SSuucccceessss SSttoorryy

How do you regulate 6,000 photo

processors without committing huge

amounts of money? That was the

problem facing New York City. The

economics of enforcing

concentration-based limits with

limited resources and staff for so

many small business locations were

enormous. NYC solved its problem in

September 1995 by adopting the

Code of Management Practice

(CMP) for Silver Dischargers.

Industry and government then

worked together to provide training

workshops for photo processors. The

workshops demonstrated the

advantages of performance-based

limits, explained the NYC ordinance

and outlined pollution prevention

opportunities that processors could

incorporate into their business

activities. Now, unlike conventional

enforcement, NYC inspectors rely on

silver recovery efficiency and

activity records kept by processors

to determine compliance with the

city ordinance. New York City

expects to divert a significant

amount of silver from its sewage

treatment facilities and ultimately,

from the natural environment.


4

The first step is to determine which of thefour categories best describes your lab:

• small• medium

• large• significant industrial user (SIU)

Use the worksheet below to see if yourphoto lab is a small photo processor.

A blank copy of this form is included inAppendix I.

If you are a small photo processor, skip toSection 3.0 Small Photo Processors.

If you are not, turn to the worksheet onpage 7 to determine whether you are inthe medium or large lab category.

2.0 Determining the Category

Small Photo Processor Worksheet

Answer as many of the questions as you can. Use your best approximations.

1. How many rolls of film do you process each day?

[Hint! Count all films disregarding the size. Use roll counts from the busiest time of year. If you are doing reprints and enlargements or second set of prints, add an additional 20 percent.]

2. How much silver-rich effluent does your lab produce each day?

[Hint! To obtain this number, use one of these methods: a) track the number of batches put through the silver recovery unit;b) track the volume of bleach-fix, fix, and washless stabilizer mixed;c) add the number of waste tanks emptied each day into the silver recovery unit; ORd) use replenishment rates for bleach-fix, fix and washless stabilizer multiplied

the by average rolls/day.]

3. How much total process effluent does your lab produce each day?

[Hint! To obtain this number, use one of these methods: a) track the volume of chemicals mixed and wash water used;b) add the number of waste tanks emptied each day; ORc) use replenishment rates multiplied by average rolls/day.]

If your numbers are greater than these values for any one question, you are not a small photoprocessor. Use the worksheet on page 7 to determine if you are a medium, large or a SIUphoto processor.

rolls

gallons

gallons

You are a small photo processor iiff

your answer to question #1. is less than 20 rolls/day, AND

your answer to question #2. is less than 2 gallons, AND

your answer to question #3. is less than 1,000 gallons.

•••• Small photo processors should go directly to page 8 ••••


5

If you are not a small photo processor,your next step is to determine whetheryou fit into the medium, large or SIUcategory.

Medium photo processors produce morethan two gallons and less than 20gallons/day of silver-rich solutions, and lessthan 10,000 gallons/day of total processeffluent, including wash water.

Large photo processors produce morethan 20 gallons/day of silver-rich solutions,and more than 10,000 gallons/day of totalprocess effluent, including wash water.

Significant Industrial Users (SIU) are notaddressed in this Guide. If your photo labfits into the SIU category, you mustoperate according to the terms of yourdischarge permit.

On pages 6 - 7 we’ve provided you withan example worksheet for categorizingyour photo processing lab. Thecalculations are based on how muchreplenisher and water are used over aspecified period of time. Read through theinstructions and look at the example.

A blank copy of this form is included inAppendix I. Make copies of the form touse in your facility and leave the originalin this Guide.


6

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1. Write the names of the chemicals you are going to measure in the columns across the top of the chart.Hint: Group the silver-rich solutions (e.g., fix, bleach-fix and washless stabilizers) on one chart and thelow-silver solutions on a second chart.

2. On line a, record the date you start measuring the chemicals.

3. Visually check the replenisher tanks for the chemical(s) you are measuring and record the tank volumes online d.

4. Read the water meter and record the number on line s. If your water meter measures cubic feet, multiplythe usage by 7.48 to convert cubic feet to gallons. Hint: The last digit should be 1/10ths. (This position isstationary on some meters.) If you don’t have a water meter simply use your water bill to determine waterconsumption for a period of one month. If you’re still not sure, ask your water supplier for help.

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5. Throughout the check period, record the volume of each of the chemicals mixed using line e throughline n. Hint: Write the amount down each time you mix so you don’t forget to do it.

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6. Write down the end date on line b.

7. On line c, record the number of days during that period the lab was actually processing.

8. Visually check the replenisher tanks for the chemical(s) you are measuring and record the tank volumes online p.

9. Read the water meter and record the number on line t. If applicable, convert cubic meters to gallons.

10. To determine total water usage on line u, do the following calculation: line t minus line s minus thedomestic flow portion of the water. Hint: Since we’re only considering processing effluent, you mustsubtract the domestic flow portion of the water used (e.g., bathrooms, sinks, etc.). Multiply the number ofemployees x 20 gallons of water per day (for every day of operation). Subtract this number from the totalwater usage. (e.g., 10 employees x 20 gallons x 25 days [of operation] = 5,000 gallons)

11. To determine average water usage divide line u by line c. Enter the number in line v.

12. Add line e through line n (the amount of chemicals mixed) and record the number on line o.

13. Add line o to line d and subtract line p (the total volume mixed plus the volume in the replenisher tank atthe beginning of the period, minus the volume left in the replenisher tank at the end of the period). Writethis number in line q.

14. Calculate the average chemicals used per day by dividing line q by line c (the chemical volume useddivided by the number of days in the period). Write this number in line r.

15. Add all the numbers across the columns in line r for silver-rich solutions. Enter the number in line w.

16. Add low-silver solutions plus water usage (line v) plus silver-rich solutions (line w). (The volume of low-silver solutions should be tracked on a separate worksheet.)

2/19/97

A medium photo processor produces more than two gallons and less than 20 gallons/day ofsilver-rich solutions (line w), and more than10,000 gallons/day of total process effluent (line x),including wash water. If you fit this category, turn to page 12.

A large photo processor produces more than 20 gallons/day of silver-rich solutions (line w), andmore than 10,000 gallons/day of total process effluent (line x) including wash water. If you fitthis category, turn to page 18.


7

a) Start date (day/month)

b) End date (day/month)

c) Working days (a - b - the number of days closed)

d) Replenisher tank volume on start date (in gallons)

e) 1st mix volume (in gallons)

f) 2nd mix volume

g) 3rd mix volume

h) 4th mix volume

i) 5th mix volume

j) 6th mix volume

k) 7th mix volume

l) 8th mix volume

m) 9th mix volume

n) 10th mix volume

o) Total volume mixed [e + f + g ... + n ] (in gallons)

p) Replenisher tank volume on end date (in gallons)

q) Chemical volume used (d + o) - p

r) Average chemical volume discharged (q ÷ c)

s) Water meter reading on start date (in gallons)

t) Water meter reading on end date

u) Water usage (t - s - domestic flow of 5000 gallons)

v) Average water usage (u ÷ c)

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The volume of silver-rich and low-silver solutions discharged to the POTW can be estimated by measuring the amount of replenisherand water used during a specific time period. Use this chart along with the instructions to calculate waste. In this example, we’vetracked silver-rich solutions and water only. Use a separate sheet for low-silver solutions.

Film Fixer

June 1

June 30

25

15

25

25

25

25

34812 gal

52012 gal

100

20

95

3.8 gal

12200 gal

488 gal

Film Stabilizer Paper B/F

June 1June 1

June 30 June 30

25 25

12 17

25 25

25 25

25 25

Paper Stab

June 1

June 30

25

10

25

25

25

25

25

25

25

25

125 75 150

15

145

5.8 gal

5 8

132 84

5.28 gal 3.36 gal

Example ChartExample ChartChemical Names

w) Total all the numbers recorded across in line r for silver-rich solutions only

x) Total all the numbers recorded across in line q for low-silver solutions

plus line v (average water usage)

3.8 + 5.28 + 3.36 + 5.8 = 18.24 gallons

gallons of low-silver solutions + 488 + 18.24 = total gallons of process effluent


8

This section includes the followinginformation for small photo processors:

• silver recovery compliance options, and

• equipment configurations with testing and record keeping requirements.

The following silver recovery options arerecommended for recovering at least 90percent of the silver from silver-richsolutions:

1. electrolytic unit, or

2. one or two chemical recoverycartridges (CRCs) with manufacturer-specified flow control,* or

3. electrolytic unit followed by achemical recovery cartridge (CRC) withmanufacturer-specified flow control, or

4. off-site management, or

5. alternative technology providing atleast 90 percent silver recovery.

In this section for small photo processors,we’ll review typical silver recoveryequipment configurations for each of thecompliance options. Detailed informationis available in the appendices.

We’ll also describe the testing methodsand procedures to use with the equipmentto verify that it is recovering at least 90percent of the silver.

Finally, we’ll show you samples of simplesilver recovery logs to use for recordingthe results of the testing.

If you are a small photo processor, youmust select and use one of the equipmentconfigurations discussed in this section.

3.0 Small Photo Processors

3.1 Compliance Options

A small photo processor is one thatproduces less than 2 gallons per day ofsilver-rich solutions and no more than1,000 gallons per day of total effluent.

Small labs must recover silver to at least90 percent efficiency.

* Facilities that generate less than 0.5 gallons per day ofsilver-rich solutions need only one CRC. Due to thelow volume, a second CRC would oxidize andchannel by the time the first CRC was exhaustedresulting in no additional silver recovery.

For detailed information about a specifictype of silver recovery equipment, how itworks, and preventive maintenancerecommendations, refer to:

Appendix B Electrolytic Silver Recovery Appendix C Chemical Recovery CartridgesAppendix F Off-Site Management

3.2 Equipment Configurations


9

HHooww iitt wwoorrkkss

In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the electrolytic unit (B). When sufficientsilver-rich solution has accumulated, theelectrolytic unit begins to desilver thesolution. When the batch is completed, thedesilvered solution is pumped (C) out ofthe electrolytic unit to the drain (D).

TTeessttiinngg mmeetthhooddss

There are two types of testing methodsyou must use:

• once each week, silver-estimating testpapers or another method ofapproximating silver must be used toindicate the system is working, (pass/fail),and

• once every year, highly accurateanalytical laboratory testing such asatomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.

TTeessttiinngg pprroocceedduurreess

Use the following testing procedures withthis equipment configuration:

1. The solution coming out of theelectrolytic unit (D) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating testpapers. (See Appendix H for moreinformation.)

2. The solution going into the electrolyticunit (A) and coming out of theelectrolytic unit (D) must be testedonce every year by an analyticallaboratory. This testing is used to verifythe percent efficiency of the system.

TTeessttiinngg rreeccoorrddss

• All test results must be recorded in asilver recovery log. See the examplesbelow. Check with the POTW to findout how long to keep records on file.

2/19/97

aa.. EElleeccttrroollyyttiicc uunniitt

Date

7/1/96

7/1/97

7/1/98

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

186 90.6%*

Annual Test

Silver Recovery Log (ppm)

* To obtain the percent recovery,use the following formula:100 - (effluent x 100 ¸ influent).

Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

Silver Recovery LogWeekly Effluent Check*

Electrolytic

* Pass (P) = no color, Fail (F) = color


10

silver-estimating test papers. (SeeAppendix H for more information.)

2. At the same time, the solution comingout of the last CRC(H) must bechecked weekly with silver-estimatingtest papers.

3. The solution going into the first CRC(B) and coming out of the last CRC (H)must be tested once every year by ananalytical laboratory. This testing isused to verify the percent efficiency ofthe system.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

F

P


CRC #1 CRC #2

P

P


Date

7/1/96

7/1/97

7/1/98

1784

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

176 90.1%*

Annual Test


When the weekly check indicatescartridge failure, refer to theequipment manual for themanufacturer’s recommendations.

* To obtain the percent recovery, usethe following formula:100 - (effluent x 100 ¸ influent).


In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the holding tank (B). Next, it is metered(C) at a fixed rate through the chemicalrecovery cartridges (CRCs) set up in series(E - G). In this diagram two CRCs areshown. Once the solution exits the lastcartridge in series (H) at least 90 percent ofthe silver has been recovered and thesolution can be discharged to the drain (I).



• once each week, silver-estimating testpapers or another method ofapproximating silver must be used toindicate the system is working (pass/fail),and

• once every year, highly accurateanalytical laboratory testing such asatomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.



1. The solution coming out of the firstCRC (F) must be checked weekly with

bb.. OOnnee oorr ttwwoo cchheemmiiccaall rreeccoovveerryy ccaarrttrriiddggeess ((CCRRCCss)) wwiitthh mmaannuuffaaccttuurreerr --ssppeecciiffiieedd ffllooww ccoonnttrrooll


11


In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the electrolytic unit (B). When sufficientsilver-rich solution has accumulated, theelectrolytic unit begins to desilver thesolution. When the batch is completed,the partially desilvered solution is pumpedout of the electrolytic unit (C) into theholding tank (D). From here, it is metered(E) at a fixed rate through the chemicalrecovery cartridge (G). Once the solutionexits the cartridge (H) at least 90 percentof the silver has been recovered and thesolution can be discharged to the drain (I).



• once each week, silver-estimating testpapers or another method of approxima-ting silver must be used to indicate thesystem is working, (pass/fail), and

• once every year, highly accurateanalytical laboratory testing such asatomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing.




2. The solution coming out of the CRC(H) must be checked weekly withsilver-estimating test papers.

3. The solution going into the electrolyticunit (A) and coming out of the CRC (H)must be tested once every year by ananalytical laboratory. This testing isused to verify the percent efficiency ofthe system.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

P


Electrolytic CRC

P

F


Date

7/1/96

7/1/97

7/1/98

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

186 90.6%*

Annual Test



cc.. EElleeccttrroollyyttiicc uunniitt ffoolllloowweedd bbyy aa cchheemmiiccaall rreeccoovveerryy ccaarrttrriiddggee ((CCRRCC)) wwiitthh mmaannuuffaaccttuurreerr --ssppeecciiffiieedd ffllooww ccoonnttrrooll


12


In this configuration, the silver-richsolution overflow from the processor isstored in a drum (A) until it is picked-upby a licensed hauler for off-site silverrecovery, treatment and/or disposal (B).

TTeessttiinngg rreeqquuiirreemmeennttss

There are no Code of ManagementPractice testing requirements for verifyingsilver recovery efficiencies. State wasteagencies, however, may require testing inorder to characterize the waste.

AAddddiittiioonnaall rreeqquuiirreemmeennttss

Photo processors using off-sitemanagement must meet the followingrequirements:

• Submit notification to the local sewagetreatment authorities (e.g., POTW) thatthe processor is using off-site silverrecovery. The POTW may requiresome specific information concerningthe hauling company and receivingfacility.

• Store the silver-rich solutions in a drumthat’s compatible with photoprocessing solutions.

• Provide secondary containment forstorage tanks, if required in yourjurisdiction.

• Comply with all applicable hazardouswaste and DOT regulations.

• Keep records of volumes and types ofsolutions transferred off-site. See theexample log below.

• Maintain logs and records for at leastthree years. Make the records availablefor inspection by the sewage treatmentauthorities.

dd.. OOffff-ssiittee mmaannaaggeemmeenntt

OO ffff -- SS ii tt ee CChheemmiiccaa ll LLooggDate Amount Type of Manifest

(gallons) Solution NumberDate

2/6/96

3/5/96

44

44

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

MI 3084201

MI 3084202

MI 3084203

MI 3084204

MI 3084205

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

55

48

55

4/2/96

5/7/96

6/4/96


13

This section includes the followinginformation for medium photo processors:




1. electrolytic unit followed by achemical recovery cartridge (CRC) withmanufacturer-specified flow control, or

2. two or more CRCs with manufacturer-specified flow control, or

3. precipitation unit, or

4. evaporation or distillation unit, or


6. alternative technology providing atleast 95 percent silver recovery.

In this section for medium photoprocessors, we’ll review typical silverrecovery equipment configurations foreach of the compliance options. Detailedinformation is available in the appendices.



If you are a medium photo processor, youmust select and use one of the equipmentconfigurations discussed in this section.

A medium photo processor is one thatproduces more than 2 gallons and lessthan 20 gallons per day of silver-richsolutions and no more than 10,000

gallons per day of total effluent.Medium labs must recover silver to at

least 95 percent efficiency.

4.0 Medium Photo Processors

4.1 Compliance Options

For detailed information about a specifictype of silver recovery equipment, how itworks, and preventive maintenancerecommendations, refer to:

Appendix B Electrolytic Silver Recovery Appendix C Chemical Recovery CartridgesAppendix D PrecipitationAppendix E Evaporation & DistillationAppendix F Off-Site Management



14

aa.. EElleeccttrroollyyttiicc uunniitt ffoolllloowweedd bbyy aa cchheemmiiccaall rreeccoovveerryy ccaarrttrriiddggee ((CCRRCC)) wwiitthh mmaannuuffaaccttuurreerr --ssppeecciiffiieedd ffllooww ccoonnttrrooll


In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the electrolytic unit (B). When sufficientsilver-rich solution has accumulated, theelectrolytic unit begins to desilver thesolution. When the batch is completed,the partially desilvered solution is pumpedout of the electrolytic unit (C) into theholding tank (D). From here, it is metered(E) at a fixed rate through the chemicalrecovery cartridge (G). Once the solutionexits the cartridge (H) at least 95 percentof the silver has been recovered and thesolution can be discharged to the drain (I).



• once each week, silver-estimating testpapers or another method of approxima-ting silver must be used to indicate thesystem is working (pass/fail), and

• once every six months, highlyaccurate analytical laboratory testing suchas atomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing.




2. The solution coming out of the CRC(H) must be checked weekly withsilver-estimating test papers.

3. The solution going into the electrolyticunit (A) and coming out of the CRC (H)must be tested once every six monthsby an analytical laboratory. This testingis used to verify the percent efficiencyof the system.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

P


Electrolytic CRC

P

F


Date

7/5/96

1/5/97

7/1/97

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

98 95.1%*

Six Month Test




15


In this configuration, the silver-rich overflowfrom the processor (A) is directed to theholding tank (B). Next, it is metered (C) at afixed rate through the chemical recoverycartridges (CRCs) set up in series (E - G). Inthis diagram two CRCs are shown. Oncethe solution exits the last cartridge in series(H) at least 95 percent of the silver has beenrecovered and the solution can bedischarged to the drain (I).




• once every six months, highlyaccurate analytical laboratory testing suchas atomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.



1. The solution coming out of the firstCRC (F) must be checked weekly with

silver-estimating test papers. (SeeAppendix H for more information.)

2. At the same time, the solution comingout of the second CRC (H) must bechecked weekly with silver-estimatingtest papers.

3. The solution going into the first CRC(B) and coming out of the second CRC(H) must be tested once every sixmonths by an analytical laboratory.This testing is used to verify thepercent efficiency of the system.


• All test results must be recorded in asilver recovery log. See the examplebelow. Check with the POTW to findout how long to keep records on file.

bb.. TTwwoo oorr mmoorree cchheemmiiccaall rreeccoovveerryy ccaarrttrriiddggeess ((CCRRCCss)) wwiitthh mmaannuuffaaccttuurreerr --ssppeecciiffiieedd ffllooww ccoonnttrrooll

Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

F

P


CRC #1 CRC #2

P

P


Date

7/5/96

1/5/97

7/5/98

1784

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

89 95.1%*

Six Month Test


When the weekly check indicatescartridge failure, refer to theequipment manual for themanufacturer’s recommendations.



16

cc.. PPrreecciippiittaattiioonn uunniitt

papers. (See Appendix H for moreinformation.)

2. The solution going into theprecipitation unit (A) and coming outof the precipitation unit (C) must betested once every six months by ananalytical laboratory. This testing isused to verify the percent efficiency ofthe system.



Date

7/5/96

1/5/97

7/5/98

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

98 95.1%*

Six Month Test


Date

7/5/96

1/5/97

7/5/98

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

98 95.1%*

Six Month Test




In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto a collection tank inside theprecipitation unit (B). Next, the solution ispumped from the collection tank througha coil where it is mixed with aprecipitating agent. Silver-rich solids areformed and collected as a sludge in a filterinside the unit and sent off-site for silverrecovery. The solution exiting theprecipitation unit (C) can be discharged tothe drain because at least 95 percent ofthe silver has been recovered.




• once every six months, highly accurateanalytical laboratory testing such asatomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.



1. The solution coming out of theprecipitation unit (C) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating test


17

dd.. EEvvaappoorraattiioonn oorr ddiissttiillllaattiioonn uunniitt


Evaporation and distillation may be usedin conjunction with off-site management.Both of these processes concentrate andreduce the volume of overflow to be sentoff-site, thus lowering the costs of haulingand treating the waste.

In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedinto the evaporation or distillation unit (B).In evaporation, the liquid is evaporatedleaving a silver-rich slurry that is collectedin the unit and eventually sent off-site fortreatment (C).

In distillation, the liquid portion of theoverflow is heated to its boiling point. Thenthe vapors are captured and cooledresulting in a distillate of essentially distilledwater. Since at least 95 percent of the silverhas been recovered, the distillate can bedischarged to the drain (D) or used to mixsecondary chemicals. The remaining silver-rich slurry is collected in the unit andeventually sent off-site for treatment (C).




• once every six months, highly accurateanalytical laboratory testing such asatomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.



1. The solution coming out of thedistillation unit (D) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating test papers.

2. The solution going into the distillationunit (A) and coming out of thedistillation unit (D) must be tested onceevery six months by an analyticallaboratory. This testing is used to verifythe percent efficiency of the system.

If the system produces no effluent to thedrain, no testing is required for the Code ofManagement Practice.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

Silver Recovery Log

Weekly EffluentCheck*

* Pass (P) = no colorFail (F) = color

Date

7/5/96

1/5/97

7/5/98

1984

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

98 95.1%*

Six Month Test




18







• Submit notification to the local sewagetreatment authorities (e.g., POTW) thatthe processor is using off-site silverrecovery. The POTW may requiresome specific information concerningthe hauling and receiving facilities.






ee.. OOffff-ssiittee mmaannaaggeemmeenntt



2/6/96

3/5/96

44

44

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

MI 3084201

MI 3084202

MI 3084203

MI 3084204

MI 3084205

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

55

48

55

4/2/96

5/7/96

6/4/96


19

This section includes the followinginformation for large photo processors:




1. electrolytic unit followed by two ormore chemical recovery cartridges(CRCs) with manufacturer-specifiedflow control, or

2. electrolytic unit followed byprecipitation, or

3. evaporation or distillation unit, or


5. alternative technology providing atleast 99 percent silver recovery (e.g.,ion exchange — see Appendix G).

In this section for large photo processors,we’ll review typical silver recoveryequipment configurations for each of thecompliance options. Detailed informationis available in the appendices.



A large photo processor is one thatproduces more than 20 gallons per dayof silver-rich solutions and more than

10,000 gallons per day of total effluent.Large labs must recover silver to at least

99 percent efficiency.

5.0 Large Photo Processors

5.1 Compliance OptionsFor detailed information about a specifictype of silver recovery equipment, how itworks, and preventive maintenancerecommendations, refer to:

Appendix B Electrolytic Silver Recovery Appendix C Chemical Recovery CartridgesAppendix D PrecipitationAppendix E Evaporation & DistillationAppendix F Off-Site ManagementAppendix G Ion Exchange



20

aa.. EElleeccttrroollyyttiicc uunniitt ffoolllloowweedd bbyy ttwwoo oorr mmoorree cchheemmiiccaall rreeccoovveerryy ccaarrttrriiddggeess((CCRRCC)) wwiitthh mmaannuuffaaccttuurreerr --ssppeecciiffiieedd ffllooww ccoonnttrrooll


In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the electrolytic unit (B). When sufficientsilver-rich solution has accumulated, theelectrolytic unit begins to desilver thesolution. When the batch is completed,the partially desilvered solution is pumpedout of the electrolytic unit (C) into theholding tank (D). From here, it is metered(E) at a fixed rate through the CRCs (G, J).Once the solution exits the last CRC (I) atleast 99 percent of the silver has beenrecovered and the solution can bedischarged to the drain (K).



• once each week, silver-estimating testpapers or another method of approximatingsilver must be used to indicate the system isworking (pass/fail), and

• once every three months, highlyaccurate analytical laboratory testing suchas atomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.




2. The solution coming out of the first (H)and last CRCs (J) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating testpapers.

3. The solution going into the electrolyticunit (A) and coming out of the last CRC(J) must be tested once every threemonths by an analytical laboratory.This testing is used to verify the percentefficiency of the system.


• All test results must be recorded in asilver recovery log. See the examplebelow. Check with the POTW to findout how long to keep records on file.

Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

P


Electrolytic CRC #1 CRC #2

P

F

P

P

P


Date

7/5/96

10/5/96

1/5/97

1876

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

17 99.1%*

2016 18 99.1%

Three Month Test




21

1. The solution coming out of theelectrolytic unit (C) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating testpapers. (See Appendix H for moreinformation.)

2. The solution coming out of theprecipitation tank (F) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating testpapers.

3. The solution going into the electrolyticunit (A) and coming out of theprecipitation tank (F) must be testedonce every three months by ananalytical laboratory. This testing isused to verify the percent efficiency ofthe system.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

P


Electrolytic Precipitation

P

P


Date

7/5/96

10/5/96

1/5/97

1876

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

17 99.1%*

Three Month Test


2016 18 99.1%

bb.. EElleeccttrroollyyttiicc uunniitt ffoolllloowweedd bbyy pprreecciippiittaattiioonn


In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedto the electrolytic unit (B) where asignificant amount of the silver isrecovered. From here, it is pumped into aholding tank (C). When sufficient volumehas collected for a batch, the solution ispumped into the precipitation tank (D)where silver-rich solids are precipitatedand pumped out into a filter bag (E) forcollection. The remaining liquid can bedischarged to the drain (F) because at least99 percent of the silver has been removed.




• once every three months, highlyaccurate analytical laboratory testing suchas atomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing. Review Appendix H fordetailed information about testing.





22

cc.. EEvvaappoorraattiioonn oorr ddiissttiillllaattiioonn uunniitt


Evaporation and distillation may be usedin conjunction with off-site management.Both of these processes concentrate andreduce the volume of overflow to be sentoff-site, thus lowering the costs of haulingand treating the waste.

In this configuration, the silver-richoverflow from the processor (A) is directedinto the evaporation or distillation unit (B).In evaporation, the liquid is evaporatedleaving a silver-rich slurry that is collectedin the unit and eventually sent off-site fortreatment (C).

In distillation, the liquid portion of theoverflow is heated to its boiling point.Then the vapors are captured and cooledresulting in a distillate of essentiallydistilled water. Since at least 99 percent ofthe silver has been recovered, the distillatecan be discharged to the drain (D) or usedto mix secondary chemicals. Theremaining silver-rich slurry is collected inthe unit and eventually sent off-site fortreatment (C).




• once every three months, highlyaccurate analytical laboratory testing suchas atomic absorption (AA) or inductivelycoupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) mustbe used. Use an outside service foranalytical testing.



1. The solution coming out of thedistillation unit (D) must be checkedweekly with silver-estimating testpapers.

2. The solution going into the distillationunit (A) and coming out of thedistillation unit (D) must be tested onceevery three months by an analyticallaboratory. This testing is used to verifythe percent efficiency of the system.

If the system produces no effluent to thedrain, no testing is required for the Code ofManagement Practice.



Date

7/1/96

7/8/96

7/15/96

P

P

P

Silver Recovery Log

Weekly EffluentCheck*

* Pass (P) = no colorFail (F) = color

Date

7/5/96

10/5/96

1/5/98

Influent Effluent%

Recovery

Three Month Test


2016 18 99.1%

1876 17 99.1%*



23







• Submit notification to the local sewagetreatment authorities (e.g., POTW) thatthe processor is using off-site silverrecovery. The POTW may requiresome specific information concerningthe hauling and receiving facilities.






dd.. OOffff-ssiittee mmaannaaggeemmeenntt



2/6/96

3/5/96

44

44

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

MI 3084201

MI 3084202

MI 3084203

MI 3084204

MI 3084205

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

silver - rich photo

55

48

55

4/2/96

5/7/96

6/4/96


24

The photographic industry has a longhistory of practicing waste minimization,whether it’s through the use of photoprocessing solutions with reducedreplenishment rates or recycling single-usecameras. Using good waste controlpractices has two benefits: we can lowerthe impact our businesses have on theenvironment and we can save moneythrough reduced materials and labor.

In today’s language, waste control iscalled pollution prevention. Pollutionprevention, or P2 as it’s better known, isthe name given to good managementpractices, as well as equipment andchemical modifications that result inreducing or eliminating waste.

Most photo processors are already usingsome pollution prevention practices. In thissection of the Code of ManagementPractice Guide for Photo Processors we’regoing to give you a method to look at yourwhole facility, identify options for pollutionprevention, put a P2 plan in place, andfollow-up on the success of that plan.

The diagram on the left shows the fivesteps of P2 planning:

1. Create a team of interested andcapable staff and management employeesto develop and oversee pollutionprevention in your facility.

2. Review your options by examiningyour current practices in light ofalternative or additional measures that canreduce or eliminate waste.

3. Develop a P2 plan by deciding whichoptions you’ll adopt, the time frame foradopting them, and who will beresponsible for overseeing implementationand maintenance of the option.

4. Put the plan in place by providing thestaff with pollution prevention training andresources.

5. Track your results by keeping recordswhere they are helpful and by routinelyauditing or inspecting your photo lab forpollution prevention.

Not every pollution prevention activitydiscussed in this section will make sensefor your facility. For example, while lowreplenishment rate photo processingsolutions reduce the amount of effluent todrain, some labs don’t have a high enoughroll volume to be able to use thesesolutions. This is just one example of whyit’s so important for you to conduct athorough review of your facility andexamine your options before you begin todevelop a P2 plan.

1.0 Pollution Prevention

Create a team 1 Review

your options2

Develop a P2plan3

Put the plan in place4

Track yourresults5

Planning for Pollution Prevention

Part 2


25

In the following pages of this section, weprovide you with specific P2 informationand checklists to assess your performance.

Commitment from management and staffis an essential element of a successfulpollution prevention plan.

MMaannaaggeemmeenntt sshhoowwss iittss ssuuppppoorrtt bbyy::

11)) ddeevveellooppiinngg,, iimmpplleemmeennttiinngg aanndd mmaaiinnttaaiinniinngg

aa PP22 ppoolliiccyy, 22)) ffoorrmmiinngg aa PP22 tteeaamm, aanndd

33)) bbyy aalllloowwiinngg aaddeeqquuaattee ttiimmee aanndd rreessoouurrcceess

ffoorr PP22 aaccttiivviittiieess..

SSttaaffff sshhoowwss iittss ssuuppppoorrtt bbyy wwoorrkkiinngg wwiitthh

mmaannaaggeemmeenntt ttoo eennssuurree ppoolllluuttiioonn pprreevveennttiioonn

iiss aa pprriioorriittyy iinn tthhee pphhoottoo llaabb..

aa.. MMaannaaggeemmeenntt aaccttiivviittiieessThere’s no substitution for good leadershipin pollution prevention. Management has akey role to play.

AA ppoolllluuttiioonn pprreevveennttiioonn ppoolliiccyy

A pollution prevention policy is a simpleand clear statement that waste reductionand elimination are goals of yourcompany. The policy can be developedwith the help of the P2 team (discussednext). At the top of the next column we’veprovided an example of a policy. Makesure it’s signed by a manager to showcommitment and responsibility for P2activities.

Once the policy is developed, it should beposted for all employees, and perhapseven customers, to see. Remember — thesuccess of P2 depends upon support fromall the people in the photo lab.

TThhee PP22 tteeaamm

The pollution prevention team is the groupof management and staff people whodevelop, implement and evaluate all theactivities that go into making up the P2plan.

• How many people should be on theteam? That depends upon the size of yourlab. In a three or four person minilab, itmight be a team of one — the manager. Ina large wholesale lab, it might be a teamof five or six. You decide how manypeople you need.

• Who makes the best team member?The best team member is someone who’sinterested in pollution prevention, whowants to be on the team and who has agood understanding of the entire photoprocessing system.

1.1 Put a Team Together Pollution prevention is a key

consideration in all our business

decisions and is the responsibility of

management. We have a P2 plan in place

incorporating internal practices and

procedures that result in reducing both

liquid and solid waste. The plan is

routinely evaluated and modified to

improve our P2 record.

Manager and date


26

• What about a team leader? The P2team needs a leader. Management canleave that decision up to the team or itcan designate someone.

TTiimmee aanndd rreessoouurrcceess ffoorr tthhee PP22 tteeaamm

The P2 team needs time and resources todo its job properly. Time means time tomeet, audit the facility, develop the P2plan, put it into action, and periodicallyevaluate it. Resources mean training andtechnical information such as roll countsand replenishment rates. Managementmust provide these as part of itscommitment to P2.

bb.. SSttaaffff aaccttiivviittiieessEveryone has a part to play in pollutionprevention. Some staff will be part of theP2 team. Their responsibilities will be tohelp develop the P2 plan and put it inplace.

Train other staff to recognize pollutionprevention opportunities and to minimizewaste where ever it’s possible.

Pollution Prevention Team

Yes No ?

• Do you have a P2 policy?

• Has it been signed and dated by a manager?

• Is the policy posted where all employees can see it?

• Have employees been told about the P2 policy and its purpose?

• Has the P2 team been formed?

• Are the team members knowledgeable about photo processing?

• Has a team leader been chosen?

• Does management provide the team with the time and resources needed for P2 planning and implementation?

CChheecckklliissttThis checklist reviews all the elements for putting together a P2 team. When you have the teamin place, you should be able to answer “Yes” to all questions. “No” answers are potentialpollution prevention opportunities. When you don’t have adequate information to answer, markthe “?” Then get the information you need to make an assessment.

27



28

Pollution prevention options for photoprocessing solutions can be broken intothree categories: 1) management practices,2) equipment modifications, and 3) processmodifications. Each of these will beexamined here. We’ll also look at optionsfor managing the solid waste produced in aphoto lab.

At this phase of the P2 process, we’re onlylooking at the options. After eachdiscussion, we’ve included a checklist foryou to evaluate your practices andequipment. Anytime you answer “No”you’ve found a potential pollutionprevention opportunity. Anytime youanswer “?” it means you need moreinformation to evaluate the option.

aa.. MMaannaaggeemmeenntt pprraaccttiicceessSome of the simplest and least expensivemanagement practices produce the mosteffective pollution prevention results. Keepthis in mind as we look at the followingmanagement practices.

PPrreevveennttiivvee mmaaiinntteennaannccee

Preventive maintenance should be yourfirst pollution prevention option. Byimplementing a complete preventivemaintenance program, the equipment willwork at its optimum level, keeping wasteat a minimum. Use the recommendationsfound in the equipment operating manualas a starting point for your preventivemaintenance program.

PPrroocceessss ccoonnttrrooll

Process control is the routine monitoringof variables that affect the quality of yourproduct. These variables include:

• replenishment rates, • processing temperatures, and• chemical mix procedures.

To ensure these variables remain constantthey must be checked periodically.

In addition to monitoring these variables ona set schedule, the photo processor mustroutinely run control strips, chart the resultsof each strip (as shown on the chart below)and take action based on the results.

EExxaammppllee pprroocceessss ccoonnttrrooll cchhaarrtt

IInnvveennttoorryy ccoonnttrrooll

Managing the chemical inventory includesrotating the stock so that the oldest is usedfirst and maintaining an appropriate supplyof chemicals on-hand. This reduces therisk of having old chemicals in inventoryand reduces the amount of money tied-upin stock.

1.2 Review Your Options

PROCESS CONTROL SHEETYEAR

DATES

CONTROL ACTIONTAKEN

REFERENCEVALUES

MONTH MACHINE

STRIP CODE No

PROCESS

20

SilverRemovalÆ D

DyeFormationF

15

10

5

0100

95

90

85

80(%)

R-

G-

B- 57

R- 98

G- 98

B- 113

R- 50

G- 91

B- 112

R- 25

G- 63

B- 86

Dmax R-B

Dmax Y-YB

HD-LDContrast

LD - Speed

D-min

} 34

199XJan - Apr

XYZ12

XX34 C-41

Cha

nge

filte

rs

Mai

nten

ance

day

Mai

nten

ance

day

Dum

p an

d flu

sh r

inse

Dum

p an

d flu

sh r

inse

Mai

nten

ance

day

Dum

p an

d flu

sh r

inse

Red

uce

wat

er to

p up

Red

uce

NQ

1R r

ep ra

te

01 01

16 18 23 25 30 01 06 08 13 15 20 22 27 29 05 07 10 14 19 21 26 28 02 04

01 01 01 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 04 04

.20

.15

.10

.05

0

.05

.10

.15

.20

.20

.15

.10

.05

0

.05

.10

.15

.20

.15

.10

.05

0

.05

.10

.15

.05

0

.05


29

SSppiillll rreessppoonnssee ppllaannnniinngg

Any time a solution is unintentionallyreleased it’s a spill. The key word isunintentional. When you produce a wastesolution during rack washing, it’sintentional. When you replace the rinse orstabilizer tank solution according tomanufacturer recommendations, the wastesolution you produce is intentional.Neither of these examples, therefore, is aspill.

But if a container of photo processingsolution is dropped on the floor, rupturesand leaks, you now have a spill.

Most spills are minor splashes or leaks andcan be cleaned up with a sponge or mop.Occasionally, however, a larger spill couldoccur requiring specialized clean-upmaterials and procedures.

The time to plan for a spill is long before ithappens. A good spill response plan willhelp minimize the effects of the spill andensure the photo lab returns to normal asquickly as possible. Some of the things toinclude in your spill response plan are:

• an inventory of all the chemicals usedin the photo lab;

• a floor plan showing the location of allchemicals in the photo lab, floordrains, exits, fire extinguishers, andspill response supplies;

• a description of the containment usedfor silver recovery cartridges, mixingtanks, chemical storage tanks, and anyother containers that could leak orrupture;

• a list of spill response supplies andequipment such as mop, pail, sponge,

co-polymer and other absorbentmaterials, personal protectiveequipment; and

• a set of tested procedures forresponding to a spill. A sample spillresponse procedure is included inAppendix I.

GGoooodd hhoouusseekkeeeeppiinngg

In a clean and orderly photo lab, there’sbetter control over materials andequipment and less likelihood of spills.This results in less operational waste andprevents pollution.

Good housekeeping is one of thoseinexpensive and simple managementpractices that can significantly reducewaste, increase productivity and lowercosts. You can’t afford to neglect it. Hereare three basic good housekeepingguidelines:

1. Designate an appropriate storage areafor all materials and every piece ofequipment.

2. Require every employee (includingyourself) to return all materials andequipment to their designated area.

3. Establish a procedure and a scheduleto inspect chemical receiving, storage,mixing and use areas for spills, leaks,cleanliness, and orderliness. Ensure allareas are clean.

SSaaffeettyy aanndd sseeccuurriittyy

Keeping chemical areas safe and securecan minimize spills and other upsets.

• Make sure there is always someonetrained in spill response procedures inthe facility.

2/19/97.

30• Restrict admittance to areas where

chemicals are used and stored to thosewho have had hazard communicationtraining.

• Make sure there’s an MSDS on file forevery chemical in the facility.

• Maintain a security system so that youknow when someone is in the facility.


Management Practices

Yes No ?

• Is there a preventive maintenance program in place incorporating all the equipment manufacturer recommendations?

Yes No ?

• Are solution replenishment rates routinely monitored?

• Are processing tank temperatures routinely checked?

• Are standard chemical mix procedures used by all staff?

• Are control strips run on processors at least once per shift?

• Are all control strips plotted on control charts?

• When corrective action is taken, is it noted on the control chart?

Yes No ?

• Is the oldest chemical stock always used first?

• Are appropriate levels of stock maintained?

Yes No ?

• Is there a spill response plan?

• Is it posted in the chemical mix area?

• Is there an inventory of all chemicals in the photo lab?

• Is there a floor plan detailing the location of chemicals, floordrains, exits, fire extinguishers and spill response supplies?

• Is there containment around all permanent chemical containers?

• Are the spill response supplies easily accessible?

CChheecckklliissttThis checklist reviews all the elements for evaluating management practices. “Yes” answersindicate that you’re already using that pollution prevention measure. “No” answers are potentialpollution prevention opportunities. When you don’t have adequate information to answer, markthe “?” Then get the information you need to make an assessment.

31

Preventive Maintenance

Process Control

Spill Response Planning

Inventory Control

CCooddee ooff MMaannaaggeemmeenntt PPrraaccttiiccee GGuuiiddee ffoorr PPhhoottoo PPrroocceessssoorrss 2/19/97

Management Practices (continued)

Yes No ?

• Are all materials and equipment kept in a specified location?

• Are all chemical containers routinely checked for cracks or leaks?

• Is all equipment wiped clean of chemical residue and dirt?

• Are all floors free of chemical spills and residue?

• Are aisles and walkways clear?

• Does the photo lab look orderly and clean?

• Are all employees held accountable for good housekeeping?

Yes No ?

• Is there at least one staff member trained in spill response inthe facility at all times?

• Are areas where chemicals are used and stored restricted tostaff trained in safe chemical handling?

• Is there an MSDS for every chemical in the facility?

• Is there a security system for off-hours?

Good housekeeping

Safety and Security

32



33

bb.. EEqquuiippmmeenntt mmooddiiffiiccaattiioonnssA second category of pollution preventionoptions is equipment modifications. Thisrefers to the changes made to film andpaper processors to reduce the amount ofwaste solution produced through photoprocessing. As we examine each of theseoptions remember what we said earlier:Not every one of these options isappropriate for your equipment. In somecases, equipment cannot be modified.Check with your equipment manufacturer.

SSqquueeeeggeeeess

Squeegees are an inexpensive andeffective P2 option that improves silverrecovery. As film exits the fix tank or paperexits the bleach-fix tank, it carries over acertain amount of silver-rich solution intothe wash. A squeegee reduces carryover,therefore keeping the silver in the fix orbleach-fix tank where the overflow can besent to silver recovery instead of being lostin the wash tanks.

IInn-lliinnee ssiillvveerr rreeccoovveerryy

Another way to reduce the silver carriedover from the fix tank into the wash tanksis to reduce the concentration of silver inthe fix. This can be done with in-linesilver recovery.

In-line silver recovery is an electrolyticunit through which the fix in the processortank is recirculated. This significantlyreduces the concentration of silver carriedover into the wash.

There are other benefits of in-line silverrecovery. Generally, it’s possible to use alower fix replenishment rate which meanslower chemical consumption.Additionally, the silver recovered is highgrade silver flake.

If you use in-line silver recovery, checkwith your chemical supplier to determineif you need a specially formulated fix.

CCoouunntteerr-ccuurrrreenntt wwaasshh ttaannkkss

Counter-current wash tanks are anotherequipment modification used to controlsilver. Counter-current plumbing is thepractice of plumbing the series of finalwash/rinse tanks so that the water entersthe last tank first and the overflowcascades backward. The tank closest tothe fix, therefore, has the least amount offresh water and the highest concentrationof silver. This makes it easier to recoverthe silver from the solution as well asreduces the amount of water required inthe process.

LLooww-ffllooww wwaasshh

Silver in the wash water may be furtherconcentrated by using a low-flow orreplenished wash immediately followingthe bleach-fix or fix tank, but prior to thefinal wash/rinse tanks. The low-flow washtank is replenished and is separate fromthe wash/rinse tanks that follow it.Overflow from the low-flow wash tankshould be combined with other silver-richsolutions for silver recovery.

Equipment modifications

Yes No ?

• Are there squeegees on all processors capable of being equipped?

• Are all squeegees routinely checked and replaced when required?

• Are all squeegees cleaned as part of the shut-down procedure?

Yes No ?

• Is there an in-line electrolytic unit on all film fix tanks?

• Is the silver concentration in the tank monitored so that itdoesn’t get below 500 ppm or above 1,000 ppm?

• Is the fix specially designed for in-line silver recovery?

• Has the fix replenishment rate been reduced?

Yes No ?

• Are the processors equipped with counter-current wash tanks?

Yes No ?

• Are the processors equipped with low-flow wash tanks?

• Is the low-flow wash sent for silver-recovery?

CChheecckklliissttThis checklist reviews all the elements for evaluating equipment modifications. “Yes” answersindicate that you’re already using that pollution prevention measure. “No” answers are potentialpollution prevention opportunities. When you don’t have adequate information to answer, markthe “?” Then get the information you need to make an assessment.

34

In-line Silver Recovery

Squeegees

Counter-current Wash Tanks

Low-flow Wash



35

cc.. PPrroocceessss mmooddiiffiiccaattiioonnssThe third category of pollution preventionoptions is process modifications. Just aswith equipment modifications, not allprocessors can be changed toaccommodate every one of these processmodifications.

LLooww rreepplleenniisshhmmeenntt cchheemmiiccaallss

Replenishment rates have decreaseddramatically over the past 10 years. Usingchemicals with a low replenishment rateresults in less overflow produced, and,therefore, less solution for silver recoveryand discharge. In some cases, olderequipment can’t be modified to use newprocesses. And where roll volumes arelow, the photo processor may not be ableto use low replenishment chemicals.

SSoolluuttiioonn rreeggeenneerraattiioonn aanndd rreeuussee

Regenerating and reusing photoprocessing solutions may reduce theamount of chemicals to be desilvered ordischarged to the drain. If the equipmentcan be modified and the roll counts arehigh enough, these pollution preventionoptions can significantly reduce waste.

WWaasshhlleessss pprroocceessssiinngg

Converting to washless processing is oneof the most effective means of conservingwater. With this process modification, thewash water is replaced with a chemicalrinse that replenishes at a much lower ratethan the water. This means that water isconserved and a lower overall volume ofeffluent is produced. While theconcentration is higher, the loading is thesame.

WWaatteerr rreeuussee aanndd rreeccyycclliinngg

Reducing the amount of water used inphoto processing reduces waste andconserves a valuable resource. Optionalprocess modifications for waterconservation include:

• multiple wash tanks with counter-current flow, and

• manufacturer kits such as meteredwash water replenishment and washwater timers.

Because wash water has a direct affect onimage stability, always consult with yourmanufacturer before making waterconservation modifications to theprocessors.

DDrryy cchheemmiiccaallss aanndd aauuttoommaatteedd mmiixxiinngg

Under some conditions, dry chemicalpackaging and automated mixing cancontribute to waste minimization throughextended shelf life and fewer mixingerrors.

Process modifications

Yes No ?

• Are low replenishment chemicals used where it’s practical?

• Have replenishment rates been adjusted to reflect the lowerrequirements?

Yes No ?

• Are chemicals regenerated where it’s practical?

• Is the portion of the silver-rich chemicals that is not regeneratedsent for silver recovery?

• Are chemicals reused where it’s practical?

Yes No ?

• Has all equipment been converted to washless?

• Is the chemical rinse sent for silver recovery?

Yes No ?

• Are wash water rates set at the manufacturer recommendations?

• Does the wash water run only during processing?

• Is a wash water conservation kit used?(e.g., metered wash water replenishment or wash water timer)

Yes No ?

• Are dry chemicals used where it’s practical?

• Are automated mixers used where it’s practical?

CChheecckklliissttThis checklist reviews all the elements for evaluating process modifications. “Yes” answersindicate that you’re already using that pollution prevention measure. “No” answers are potentialpollution prevention opportunities. When you don’t have adequate information to answer, markthe “?” Then get the information you need to make an assessment.

36

Solution Regeneration and Reuse

Replenishment

Water Reuse and Recycling

Washless Processing

Other Process Modifications



37

dd.. SSoolliidd wwaasstteeThere are many pollution preventionopportunities for reducing the solid wasteproduced in a photo lab. For example,single-use cameras and the metal andplastic from film canisters and cassettescan be recycled. Batteries, paper bags,paper cores, and film canisters can bereused.

These are just a few of the items. Mostmanufacturers have take-back programsfor the solid materials used in themanufacturing and packaging of theirproducts. Malls and building owners haverecycling programs for corrugatedcardboard, office paper and othermaterials. Reusing and recycling reducesthe amount of solid waste going to landfilland lowers your waste disposal fees.

Solid Waste

Yes No ?

• Batteries?

• Film canisters?

• Plastic core protectors?

• Paper cores (cardboard)?

• Photographic paper bags?

• Processing equipment filters?

• Packing materials including pallets and plastic wrap?

Yes No ?

• Single-use cameras?

• Plastic film canisters?

• Chemical containers?

• Plastic film spools and cartridges?

• Metal film cartridges?

• Film leaders and trailers?

• Plastic core protectors?

• Paper cores (cardboard)?

• Office paper?

• Corrugated cardboard?

• Box board?

• Packing materials including pallets and plastic wrap?

CChheecckklliissttThis checklist reviews all the elements for evaluating your solid waste management program.“Yes” answers indicate that you’re already using that pollution prevention measure. “No”answers are potential pollution prevention opportunities. When you don’t have adequateinformation to answer, mark the “?” Then get the information you need to make an assessment.

38

Are the following solid wastes reused:

Are the following solid wastes recycled:



39

Now that the P2 team has finished theaudit or review, it’s time for them to lookat all the options and prioritize them as:

• High priority — needs immediateaction

• Medium priority — needs actionwithin 3 to 12 months

• Low priority — needs considerationwithin the next 1 to 2 years

SSccrreeeenniinngg yyoouurr ooppttiioonnss

Screen each option by asking thefollowing questions and writing out youranswers:

1. What is the potential for reducingwaste and providing otherenvironmental benefits?

2. What is it going to cost in time andmaterials?

3. How much money will it save in timeand materials?

4. How difficult is it to implement?

To show you how this works, look at thefollowing example of screening the optionof using squeegees on a paper processor.A blank worksheet is included inAppendix I. Make copies as you needthem and leave the original in this Guide.

1.3 Develop a P2 Plan

Worksheet for Screening Options Date

Option: Installing and maintaining squeegees on the paper processor

1. What is the potential for reducing waste and providing other environmental benefits?Less silver will be lost to the wash tank and therefore the drain. In addition, we may beable to reduce replenishment rates.

2. What is it going to cost in time and materials?Cost of the squeegees, replacement squeegees, brackets for the processor, labor forinstallation and periodic replacement, and labor for daily cleaning. (Estimate actualcosts as closely as possible.)

3. How much money will it save in time and materials?The savings will be realized in the increased amount of silver recovered. (Estimateactual savings as closely as possible.)

4. How difficult is it to implement? Not difficult - we can schedule the installment during the next preventive maintenancecheck on the machine. We need to buy the squeegees and brackets. We also need totrain process operators to keep the squeegees clean so we don’t scratch paper.


40

Screening all the options you’ve identifiedwill take time, but it’s time well spent. It’svery important that you actually write outyour answers. Doing your homework heremakes the difference between a P2 planthat exists only in your head vs. one that isimplemented and working.

PPooiinntt ssyysstteemm

You might find it useful to develop a pointsystem for rating all the options. Forexample, you could assign a plus value toevery potential benefit and a minus valueto every negative impact.

WWrriittiinngg tthhee PP22 ppllaann

Whatever system you use, you need to getto the point where you’ve prioritized all ofthe options. Now you can begin to draftthe P2 plan. For your first attempt atsystematic pollution prevention, werecommend that you start with only thehigh priority options. Work at getting

these into place and evaluate your successbefore addressing the medium and lowpriority options. Don’t make too manychanges as once — start with only 3 or 4items.

Keep your P2 plan simple. Here is theinformation you should include:

• Spell out each option and its purpose

• State a specific date when the optionwill be implemented

• List who is responsible

• Note if a record will be kept

Review the example below. A blankPollution Prevention Plan Worksheet isincluded in Appendix I. Make copies asyou need them and leave the original inthis Guide.

Pollution Prevention Plan Worksheet Date

Option or activity: We’re going to install squeegees on the paper processor in order to

reduce the amount of silver in the wash water.

Implementation date: The squeegees will be installed during the December preventive

maintenance check.

Responsibility: Joe Smith, maintenance supervisor, will arrange for buying the squeegees

and brackets, ensure the squeegees are installed and be responsible for

seeing they are maintained. He will also train the process operators how

to clean the squeegees and inspect them for wear.

Record: Squeegee maintenance will be added to the preventive maintenance checklist.


41

Now that you have a P2 plan it’s time toput it into action. These are the steps:

1. Make the plan known - Post it, explainits purpose and details to the employees,and talk it up. Through both your wordsand actions, make all employees aware ofhow committed the company is topollution prevention. Keep employeesupdated on both the successes and failuresof the plan.

2. Provide training and education - Makesure that anyone who is given responsibilityin the P2 plan has the training andknowledge to carry out his/her tasks.

3. Provide the necessary resources - Makesure that anyone who is given responsibilityin the P2 plan has the time and materialsrequired to fully implement the P2 plan.

Your P2 plan isn’t a “Now I’ve done it so Ican forget about it” kind of thing. You

need to periodically review it, evaluatewhich elements are working, which needto be modified, and which need to bediscontinued. A review every six monthsshould be often enough.

As you evaluate your P2 plan, keep inmind your original intent for pollutionprevention: minimizing or eliminatingwaste for both environmental andeconomic benefit.

Answer each of the following questions foreach pollution prevention option oractivity listed in your plan:

• How much waste has been reduced oreliminated as a result of this activity?

• How much has it cost?

• How much money has it saved?

In some cases, it may be hard to get exactanswers to these questions. But try. It’simportant that you fully evaluate every P2option implemented in your photo lab.Once again, let’s look at installingsqueegees as an example.

1.4 Put the Plan in Place

1.5 Track Your Results

Worksheet for Evaluating P2 Date

Option: Installing and maintaining squeegees on the paper processor

1. Waste reduction resultsUsing colorimetric testing, we found the concentration of silver in the first wash tank wentfrom 95 ppm to 28 ppm. Over the 6 month period, we estimate this at 386 troy ounces ofsilver.

2. CostsMaterials - brackets and squeegees = $240. Labor - installation 1 1/2 hours x $20/hour = $30.Daily maintenance - 1 minute at $12/hour = $.20 daily or $24 for 6 months. Total costs = $294

3. Savings386 tr. oz. of silver at $5.40 tr. oz. = $2,084. This was the amount of silver diverted from thewash.

P22/19/97CCooddee ooff MMaannaaggeemmeenntt PPrraaccttiiccee GGuuiiddee ffoorr PPhhoottoo PPrroocceessssoorrss

42

A successful P2 option or activity is onethat reduces waste and saves more moneythan it costs. Consider whether changing itwould make it even more successful orwhether to let it continue as is.

An unsuccessful option or activity is onethat doesn’t reduce waste, or it costs moremoney than it saves. With an unsuccessfuloption, consider whether changing itwould make it successful or whether todiscontinue using it.

Once you’ve done this evaluation forevery option, you can also considerwhether it’s time to put some of thosemedium priority options in place.Remember not to make too many changesat once.

SSpprreeaadd tthhee wwoorrdd

Every time you evaluate the success of theP2 plan, let the staff know the results —both the positive and the not so positive.When you decide to make changes orimplement new P2 activities, remember totrain the staff if there are any newprocedures.

With pollution prevention, everyone’s awinner: the impact of your business on theenvironment is reduced and the costsavings from lower waste means moremoney in your pocket.

P2

Documents

The Silver Council - Dallasdallascityhall.com/departments/waterutilities... · the silver is removed from the film and paper and goes into the solutions. Silver should be recovered