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Information presented in this publication is intended to provide a general understanding of the statutory and regulatory requirements governing hazardous waste. This information is not intended to replace, limit or expand upon the complete statutory and regulatory requirements found in national, state or local references.
If you generate hazardous waste, this fact sheet will help you understand how to properly manage it so that you protect your employees and the environment, and comply with the law. Ask yourself the following questions to determine your hazardous waste management requirements.
TIP30 gallons (about half of a 55 gallon drum) of hazardous waste with a density similar to water weighs about 220 lbs. |
The hazardous waste regulations that apply to you depend on the amount of hazardous waste you generate per month. There are three categories of hazardous waste generators:
To determine your hazardous waste generator category , add up the weight or volume of all your hazardous waste generated per month.
TipIf your generator category changes from month to month, you may want to follow the larger category requirements to ensure you are always in compliance. |
The manifest allows the waste to be tracked during shipment and at its final destination. All SQGs and LQGs must use the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest or an SQG can enter into a tolling agreement with a recycling facility for all hazardous waste that is shipped from their business. For more information about hazardous waste manifest requirements, call the state haz waste office.
If you are an LQG, there are many additional requirements that you must comply with in addition to the requirements described in this fact sheet. Call the state haz waste office to obtain a complete list of LQG requirements that apply to you.
TIPAlthough a licensed transporter ships your waste, you are responsible for ensuring that the transporter and the facility that accepts your waste manage your waste properly. Call the state haz waste office for tips on how to make this determination. |
Can I Collect Waste Near the Process?Yes, an Satellite Accumulation Area (SAA) allows you to accumulate hazardous waste near where you generate it. You may accumulate up to 55 gallons in containers that must be labeled "Hazardous Waste." Once you accumulate 55 gallons in the SAA, you have 3 days to move the waste to a 90-day accumulation area. Write the date you move the waste on the container and ensure that the waste is removed from your business within 90 days from that date. |
All SQGs must establish safety guidelines and emergency response procedures and be equipped with the following:
An internal communication or alarm system that can provide immediate emergency instructions to all personnel | |
A telephone or two-way radio to request emergency assistance from local police and fire departments | |
Portable fire extinguishers, fire control devices, spill control materials, and decontamination supplies | |
Adequate water volume and pressure to supply water hoses, foam-producing equipment, or automatic sprinklers |
TipTo protect the environment and reduce your regulatory requirements, minimize the amount of waste you generate. For more information, call the state haz waste office. |
All SQGs must:
For information about requirements for tanks, call the state haz waste office.
For additional information on YOUR hazardous waste and other environmental requirements, please call the haz waste office toll-free at 1-888-EPA-1996. All calls are considered confidential and the caller can remain anonymous. |
This page was updated on 30-Mar-2016