SAFETY TIPS
When changing or adding engine oil, observe these basic health guidelines:
- Avoid skin contact with oil, both old and new. Continuous contact with used engine oil has caused skin cancer in mice under laboratory conditions. Always wear waterproof gloves and protective clothing when handling used engine oil.
- Do not clean oily hands with gasoline, solvents, thinners or other petroleum products. These products are flammable and can also irritate the skin.
- If used oil gets on your hands, clean and rinse them thoroughly to remove all traces of oil. A waterless hand cleaner may be helpful. Do not wear oil stained clothing.
Handle used motor oil according to the following guidelines:
- Do not dispose of used oil into the ground, water, sewer system or storm drain. It can ruin streams and underground water supplies.
- Do not burn used oil directly or mix it with kerosene, heating oil, or any other type of fuel to be burned later.
- Do not put used oil in the household trash or any garbage bin -- it will end up at a landfill. Take used oil to a collection center at a service station, automotive supply store, government operated recycling or waste collection center, or similar facility. Do not leave used oil unattended outside any facility.
- Store used oil in a clean, leak-resistant container that has no residues. Do not use any container that once held caustic material, bleach, or paint. Ideally, use a plastic milk jug with screw cap.
- The dirty filter should be completely drained, crushed, then taken to a recycling center.