UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460 MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF PESTICIDES AND TOXIC SUBSTANCES SUBJECT: Disposal of Small Quantities of Pesticide Wastes: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FARMERS AND HOMEOWNERS BACKGROUND This is the EPA policy on disposal of small quantities of,pesticide wastes by farmers and homeowners. Additional information on Agency policy relative to pesticide disposal can be found in 40 CFR 165. The following recommendations reflect the guidance contained in that publication. These recommendations are also consistent with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which establishes legal requirements for the disposal of hazardous waste. Homeowners are generally exempt from RCRA requirements because the statute excludes "household waste" from its definition of hazardous waste. Farmers disposing of pesticides defined as hazardous waste by RCRA requirements must comply with the RCRA disposal procedures below. Fanners disposing of up to one gallon of liquid or 10 pounds of dry formulations of non-hazardous, waste pesticides that are not covered by RCRA may follow the "Suggested Disposal Procedures for Homeowners." SUGGESTED DISPOSAL PROCEDURES FOR HOMEOWNERS Liquid formulations in quantities of less than one (1) gallon should be left in the original container. Make sure the cap is securely in place to prevent spills or leaks. Wrap in several layers of newspaper and secure. The package should then be placed in a trash receptacle for routine collection with municipal refuse. Dry formulations in quantities of one bag or less (up to 10 pounds) should be secured to prevent leaking. This can be done by wrapping in paper or placing the package in a tight carton or bag and taping or tying it closed. Once secured, the package should be placed in an appropriate trash collection receptacle. Small quantities of pesticides, when handled as described above, do not present a hazard to trash collectors or to the environment. A properly operated sanitary landfill presents a large dilution factor and provides sufficient containment to negate any hazardous effects the product may present. ------- DISPOSAL PROCEDURES FOR FARMERS Under RCRA requirements, a farmer disposing of waste pesticides from his own use is required to triple rinse each container and to dispose of the pesticide residues on his own farm in a manner consistent with disposal instructions on the label. A farmer who does not comply with these instructions will be subject to additional RCRA requirements. Further information on RCRA can be obtained by calling the EPA/RCRA "Hot Line" (800-424-9346). LARGER QUANTITIES Appropriate procedures for disposal of quantities of pesticide wastes larger than those described above must be established on a case-by-case basis. Farmers and homeowners having questions regarding disposal of such wastes are advised to call the EPA/RCRA "Hot Line" (800-424-9346) for more information. Assistance is also available from the nearest EPA Regional office or state hazardous waste control agency. The name and telephone number of who to call may be obtained from the EPA/RCRA Hot Line operator. STATE AND LOCAL REQUIREMENTS Please note that the recommendations in this memorandum pertain only to disposal requirements under federal law. In some instances, there may be additional state and local requirements. 3/4/83 ------- |