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EHSO RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Information - Requirements and Regulations - 40 CFR 260, 261, 262

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EHSO RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Information - Requirements and Regulations - 40 CFR 260, 261, 262

Hazardous Waster Generators Requirements and Regulations

What Are Hazardous Waste Generators?

Generators are individuals that produce hazardous waste, usually as a result of an industrial process. Unless the generator has a government issued permit, or falls into one of a very small number of specific exceptions, the generator must have the waste transported by a licensed haz waste transporter to a facility that can recycle , treat, store, or dispose of the waste. For the regulations about identifying hazardous waste, see 40 CFR 261 [Adobe Acrobat PDF File].

Hazardous waste may be transported to another location to be treated, stored or disposed, or may be managed at the place of generation. When waste is to be transported off-site, the generator prepares a shipping document called a manifest. This tracking form must accompany the waste to its final destination, and is used to track the waste from "cradle-to-grave." For additional information see The Hazardous Waste Manifest .

Regulatory definitions for generators (and transporters) can be found at 40 CFR 260.10 [Adobe Acrobat PDF File].

What types of Generators Are There?

Hazardous waste generators are divided into three categories, based on the amount of waste produced, and are subject to different levels of regulation. The three types of hazardous generators are: (For more detailed information, refer to the links under each generator type.)

  1. Conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs) : generate less than 100 kg of hazardous waste, or less than 1 kg of acutely hazardous waste per month. For more information about CESQGs, see the CESQG Rule page.
  2. Small quantity generators (SQGs ): generate between 100 kg and 1,000 kg of hazardous waste per month. For more information on SQGs, see Understanding the Hazardous Waste Regulations, a Handbook for Small Businesses.
  3. Large quantity generators (LQGs) : generate over 1,000 kilograms (kg) of hazardous waste, or over 1 kg of acutely hazardous waste per month. For more information on LQG requirements, see Hazardous Waste Requirements for Large Quantity Generators

What Are the Requirements for Hazardous Waste Generators?

Requirements for CESQGs (Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators) includes:
(see also 40 CFR 261.5 [Adobe Acrobat PDF File]).

  • CESQGs must identify all the hazardous waste they generate
  • CESQGs must not accumulate more than 1000 kg of hazardous waste at any time
  • CESQGs must ensure that their hazardous waste is delivered to someone who is authorized to manage their waste.

Requirements for SQGs (Small Quantity Generators) and LQGs (Large Quantity Generators) include:
(see also 40 CFR 262 [Adobe Acrobat PDF File]).

  • Obtaining an EPA Identification number (contact state environmental office for number)
  • Handling wastes properly before shipment (packaging, labeling, marking, placarding, accumulation time, etc.)
  • Complying with the manifest system
  • Recordkeeping and reporting requirements

Some states may have additional requirements for generators. You should contact your state environmental office if you are not familiar with the requirements that may apply to you.

The Hazardous Waste Manifest

The Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (the manifest) is a form used to track the movement of hazardous waste from the point of generation to the point of ultimate disposition ("cradle to grave"). (For information regarding the manifest requirements, see 40 CFR part 262, subpart B [Adobe Acrobat PDF File]).

RCRA manifests include information such as:

  • name and address of the generator, transporter, and the destination facility
  • U.S. DOT description of the waste being transported and any associated hazards
  • waste quantity
  • name and phone number of a contact in case of an emergency
  • special handling, Land Ban, or hazard information
  • other information required either by EPA or the state

EPA Documents Related to Hazardous Waste Generators

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