Painted Wood Construction & Demolition Special Instructions When preservative-treated wood has reached the end of its service life it needs to be properly disposed of; the chemicals it contains can leach out of the wood and contaminate surface water and groundwater. This can pose a potential risk to human health and the environment. (source: California Department of Toxic Substances Control) Construction MaterialsWaste material generated during the construction, renovation or demolition of a location cannot be placed in your containers. Order temporary service for construction projects. Special Waste CollectionHazardous waste cannot be placed in your containers. Schedule a special waste collection by emailing [email protected] or calling Athens’ Customer Service Department at 888-336-6100. LA County, S.A.F.E. Collection Centers will accept wood with creosote such as railroad ties. Must be less than 3 ft. in length. Is It Treated Wood? If your painted wood has been treated to prevent damage from rot and insects, it is hazardous waste. Dispose of it as treated wood. Heat-treated or kiln-dried wood, usually marked with an “HT,” is not hazardous. Check for Lead Paint If the wood you’re dealing with comes from a project that pre-dates 1978 it may contain lead paint, which is hazardous. If any fine particles of lead-based paint are inhaled, they can cause a wide range of health problems. Use this PDF guide from the EPA to learn more about reducing hazards when working with lead. Never Burn Painted Wood Wood that has been painted, stained or varnished releases toxic chemicals when it’s burned. Never burn wood coated in any of these materials. Ways to Reduce Choose Nontoxic Finishes for Your Wood Projects Avoid exposing yourself and your family to VOCs and other toxins by choosing natural, non-toxic finishes for wood projects. Learn more at My Chemical-Free House. Ways to Reuse Repurpose for New Project Certain types of wood products can be reused in a variety of different ways. Find out how to repurpose your wood product. Did You Know? Transforming Discarded Wood into Beautiful Furniture