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RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
AUGUST 84
9443.1984(06)
An aqueous wtste containing snail amounts of an organic
coopound flashes in a Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester.
Is this waste RGtt ignitable or is it excluded- fro* that
definition because it 'contains less tnan 24S'«lcohol?"
The waste has no alcohol in it.
If an aqueous waste contains no alcohol, it is not excluded
fro* the definition of ignitable as is wine or latex paint.
Hence, If the flashpoint is less than 140*F, the aqueous
waste 1s deemed icnltable. EPA is working on developing
a test for such wastes to determine if they would sustain
coooustion or on I/ flash in the Closed Cu£ Tester.
Source: Florence Richardson
Research: Oenise Wright
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. O.C. 204*0
MAR 7
of
^. ,
Mr. Dick Bruner
Executive Director
Technical and Logistics Services (DLA-S)
Defense Logistics Agency
Cameron Station
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Dear Mr. Bruner:
This letter is in response to a number of requests made
by the Department of Defense ( DOD) for guidance from the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the regulatory status
of spent and/or discarded lithium-sulfur dioxide (Li/SC>2)
batteries.
EPA recognizes that the Department of Defense has done
extensive work in assessing the hazards posed by lithium
batteries!/ and in developing procedures for managing spent or
discarded Li/SC>2 cells. In fact, DOD currently considers
these batteries to be hazardous wastes for management purposes.
Consequently, the purpose of this letter is simply to render
an Agency opinion as to whether lithium batteries are hazardous
wastes under the rules promulgated pursuant to the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA), and to clarify
the application of those rules to the management ( i .e . , disposal)
of lithium batteries.
The term 'lithium batteries' as used in this letter applies
only to those batteries or cells commonly referred to as lithium-
sulfur dioxide batteries. Ac this time* EPA does not have
sufficient information to mak« a blanket determination as to
whether lithium batteries using other cathode materials (i.e.,
thionyl chloride (SOCl2)» polycarbon mo nofluoride ((CF)X),
manganese dioxide (MnO2), iodine (I), silver oxide (Ag2O),
silver chr ornate (Ag2CrO4), vanadium pent oxide (V2C>5), iron
sulfide (FeS), copper oxide (CuO), and lead bismuthate (Bi2Pb2O5))
exhibit the characteristic of reactivity. Consequently, handlers
of these lithium batteries must evaluate them against the reactivity
characteristic identified in $261.23 as well as the other hazardous
waste characteristics to determine if the batteries should be
handled as hazardous wastes.
-------
Based on a careful review of the available data and
information, EPA has concluded that lithium-sulfur dioxide
batteries clearly exhibit the characteristic of reactivity as
defined in 40 CFR 261.23. Handlers of these wastes must,
therefore, comply with all applicable standards under 40 CFR
Parts 262 to 266, and 124, 270, and 271. Under these standards,
the land disposal of reactive waste is prohibited unless the
waste is treated or otherwise rendered non-reactive. (See
SS264.312 and 265.312).
Under 40 CFR 261.23, a solid waste is considered to
be reactive if a representative sample of the waste has any
of the following properties:
(1) It is normally unstable and readily undergoes violent
change without detonating.
(2) It reacts violently with water.
(3) It forms potentially explosive mixtures with water.
(4) When mixed with water, it generates toxic gases, vapors,
or fumes in a quantity sufficient to present a danger to
human health or the environment.
(S) It is a-cyanide or sulfide bearing waste which, when
exposed to pH conditions between 2 and 12.5, can generate
toxic gases, vapors, or fumes in a quantity sufficient to
present a danger to human health or the environment.
(6) It is capable of detonation or explosive reaction if it
is subjected to a strong initiating source or if heated under
confinement.
(7) It is readily capable of detonation or explosive
decomposition or reaction at standard temperature and pressure.
(8) It it a forbiudeti explosive ss defined in 49 CFR 173.53
or a Class 3 explosive as defined in 49 CPR 173.88.
The lithium in U/SO2 cells will form potentially explosive
hydrogen gas when mixed with water ($261.23(a)(3))r and Li/SO2
calls ara capable of violant rupture or reaction if subjected to
a strong initiating source or if heated undar confinement
(S261.23(a)(6)). However, of primary concern is the potential,
undar existing management practices, for components of the batteries
to generate toxic gases, vapors, or fumes in a quantity sufficient
to present a danger to human health or the environment when those
components are nixed with water or exposed to certain pB conditions
($261.23(a)(4) and (a)(5)).
-------
A review of the existing literature clearly indicates that
Li/S02 batteries are capable of violent reaction if mishandled
by being exposed to a strong initiating source or heated under
confinement. Incidents of violent cell ruptures, particularly
of cells of the unbalanced design, have been documented in
laboratory abuse tests and under actual field conditions.
Although newer designs of Li/SO2 batteries incorporate a number
of safety features that reduce their explosive potential in most
circumstances, forced discharge below zero volts, penetration,
or heating in a confined area may still cause vented batteries
to violently rupture.
Lithium-sulfur dioxide batteries typically contain strips
of lithium metal as the anode as well as a non-aqueous electrolyte
consisting primarily of sulfur dioxide (SO2> and smaller concen-
trations of acetonitrile (CH3CN) and a lithium salt, typically
lithium bromide (LiBr). Lithium is known to react with water to
produce potentially explosive hydrogen gas. Although lithium
battery cells are constructed such that their reactive components
do not ordinarily come into contact with water under normal
operating conditions, if placed in a landfill, or otherwise
improperly managed, these batteries will eventually corrode and
allow their reactive constituents to COB* into contact with water.
The reactive nature of lithium is of particular concern since
substantial quantities of partially discharged cells or cells of
the unbalanced, or excess lithium type, are often disposed of
together. The Agency believes that under existing management
practices* (i.e., storage in drums or disposal of batteries in
drums), potentially explosive concentrations of hydrogen gas
might reasonably be expected to occur (261.23(ft)(2)).
The Ag«ncy also believes that the-practice of accumulating
large quantities of Li/502 batteries could result in concentrations
of toxic gases, vapors, or- funs-s in sufficient concentration to
present a danger to human health or the environment. As mentioned
previously, newer lithium-battery.cells are designed to automati-
cally vent SO2 and other components to the air to minimize the
possibility of explosion due to pressure when the calls are
ex no sod to external heat or short-circuiting. During oparations
such as collection, processing, and disposal, the batteries may
ba exposed to mechanical shock, short circuiting, immersion in
water or penetration. These operations are likely to causa
calls to rupture and/or vent their reactive materials in potentially
dangerous concentrations if venting or rupture occurs in a confined
area or if significant numbers of cells are involved. Sulfur
dioxide is a strong irritant and is capable of causing incapacitation
at concentrations above SO ppm and has proven to be life-threatening
at concentrations of 400-500 ppm. In addition, acetonitrile (CH3CN)
-------
will decompose to form toxic cyanide fumes when heated. Lithium
also reacts with acetonitrile to produce lithium cyanide (LiCN),
which in turn can react with weak acids to produce toxic hydrocyanic
gas. Potentially dangerous concentrations of these, as well as
other toxic fumes and vapors, may, therefore, be expected to
result if the reactive components of these batteries are exposed
to water or acidic conditions during collection, processing, or
disposal operations.
The inherently reactive nature of lithium-sulfur dioxide
batteries was, in fact, demonstrated by a fire at the Croton
Point Landfill in Westchester County, New York on April 20, 1981.
In that incident, a number of drums of lithium-sulfur dioxide
batteries, which were improperly handled, caught fire due either
to short circuiting or contact with moisture. The fire resulted
in a number of violent ruptures as well as the generation of
toxic gases and fumes which posed a hazard to personnel combating
the fire..
The Agency recognizes that the degree of hazard posed
by lithium battery cells depends upon a large number of
variables including:
• the quantity of cells accumulated in one location and
the condition of the cells (e.g., whether they have
vented, are partially depleted, fully discharged, of the
balanced or unbalanced type, etc.)
• the procedures used in storing, transporting, disposing,
or otherwise handling spent or discarded batteries.
• the proximity of workers or the general public to the
batteries.
Due to the variable nature of the hazards posed by lithiua
batteries under different conditions* the Agency had considered
whether it was feasible to establish accumulation levels below
which quantities of lithiua batteries would not be considered
reactive and* therefore* not subject to the hazardous waste
regulations. However, the Agency does not believe that there
is sufficient information available at this time to reasonably
establish such exemption levels specifically for lithiua batteries.
The Agency's conclusion that lithium-sulfur dioxide
batteries exhibit the characteristic of reactivity does not
affect the applicability of other provisions of the hazardous
waste regulations. Of specific interest to DOO aay be S261.S*
which conditionally exeapts froa hazardous waste regulation all
-------
j. >. -5-
hazardous wastes from generators that do not generate more than
1000 kg. per month of hazardous waste or accumulate more than
1000 kg. «f such waste at any time.JL/ However, you should be
aware that when calculating the quantity of waste generated for
purposes of assessing small quantity generator status, all hazardous
wastes from all sources that are generated at a particular site!/
in a one-month period or which are accumulated over any period
of time must be counted. You should also be aware that Congress
is currently considering amendments to RCRA that would lower the
small quantity generator exemption level to 100 kg.
As mentioned previously, the practical effect of the
Agency's conclusion that lithium batteries are reactive wastes
is that regulated quantities of these batteries may not be
disposed of at most hazardous waste land disposal facilities.
Sections 264.312 and 265.312 prohibit landfilling of reactive
wastes unless they are treated, rendered* or mixed such that
they no longer exhibit the characteristic of reactivity and
unless the general requirements for reactive wastes contained
in SS264.17(b) and 265.17(b) have been met.
If you have any questions about the information contained
in this letter, please dp not hesitate to contact either
Franc ine Jacoff or Robert Axelrad, of my staff at (202) 382-4761.
Sincerely yours,
/•/ Jack W. UcCrtr
Lee M. Thomas
Assistant Administrator
'Acute hazardous1 wastes are subject to a 1 kg. exemption
level for quantities generated in a one-month period or accumu-
lated over any period of tine. As * characteristic hazardous
waste, lithium batteries are subject to the 1000 kg. exemption
level.
2/See $260.10 definitions for «individual generation site* and
'on-site•.
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9443.1983(03)
RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
FEBRUARY 83
C Question: If » tnatsrial it 80% solid «n3 20% w»t«r, can th» PH t» n»asur«J
'' , i«S«r 261.22UHD?
Vwser- It i* still t«*tabl« if it contains frs« liquids (*mt«r). Th«
ajueous phaM of th« proposed paint filter tMt could b« us«3 to
dstsmim if th*r« «r*-.fr«« liquids.
f lorvnc* Richudson
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9443.1983(01)
JAN I 0 1983
REs -WCBDF0345
*E!1ORANDUH
SUBJECT: Ignitabie Solids Definition
P.RO«: John H. Skinner, Acting Director
Office of Solid waste (WH-562)
TO: David A. Wagoner, Director
Air and waste Management Division, Region vii
As you requested in your *emo of December 15, I am writing
to clarify the definition of an ignitabie solid under 40 CFR
261.23 as it applies to materials such as titanium swarf.
As Geno Grumpier correctly advieed Greg Weber* of Region V,
in ord«r for a solid wast* to be an ignitabie waste it must
be capable, under standard temperature and pressure, of both
causing fires through friction, absorption of moisture or
spontaneous chemical changes and burn so vigorously and per-
sistently that it creates a hazard* Thus, if the titanium
swarf is very difficult to Ignite it would not be classified
as a hazardous wast* even though, one* ignited, it may pose a
hazard.
In order to remove th* ambiguities inherent in such a
definition, OSW is in th* process of developing specific testing
methods and hazardous wast* definition thresholds for ignitabie
solids. However, s\ieh tests ar* not expected to be ready tor
proposal until FT 84, '%
If you haw* any comment* or questions concerning the
ignitabie waste definition pleas* give Oevia Friedman or
Florence Richardson * call st FTS 382*4770.
WH-565BtDrRIEDHAHjdftS248»382-4770tWSM»l-S-83 Disk DF»03*45
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Recycled
Materials
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Exhibit VIII
Recycled Materials
Overheads from Presentations
Relevant Federal Regulatory Citations
RCRA Policy Excerpts
EPA Region 2 164
-------
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Exhibit VIII-1
Recycling
Definition
Certain materials are not subject to regulation when
recycled
Nature of material
Manner of recycling
Determination of regulation
Materials that are not solid waste when recycled
Certain recycled materials are regulated under Part 266
EPA Region 2 165
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Exhibit VIII-2
The Regulations Governing Materials
That Are Recycled
• Exclude some recycled materials from the definition of solid
waste
• Specify the applicable regulations for the management of
recycled wastes (recyclable materials)
§261.2,261.6
•Decision Diagram B is used to determine which recycled materials are not solid wastes and which regulations apply to various types of recycled wastes
and recycling activities.
•The regulations governing hazardous waste recycling activities include:
- Standard Subtitle C regulation of generation, transportation, and storage (the recycling activity itself is exempt from 264/265 regulation except for the
air emissions standards of Subparts AA and BB) (§261.6(a)(l));
- Part 266 recycling regulations for specific recycling operations (§261.6(a)(2)); or
- Exemption from standard Subtitle C regulation (§261.6(a)(3)).
•The frame work for the recycling regulations was formulated on January 4, 1985 (50 FR 614).
EPA Region 2 166
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Exhibit VIII-3
Recycle: A General Definition
A material is recycled if
it is used, reused or reclaimed
§261.1(c)(7)
•"Reclaimed" is defined in §261.1(c)(4).
•"Used or reused" is defined §261.1(c)(5).
•Materials are also recycled if they are (§261.2(c)):
- Used in a manner constituting disposal;
- Burned for energy recovery or used as a fuel; or
- Speculatively accumulated
(these terms are discussed in detail - on following pages).
EPA Region 2
167
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Exhibit VIII-4
Certain Materials Are Not Subject To
Regulation When Recycled
• Industrial ethyl alcohol that is reclaimed
• Used batteries returned for regeneration
• Used oil exhibiting any of the characteristics of hazardous
waste that is recycled in a manner other than burning for
energy recovery
§261.6(a)(3)
•These materials are solid waste, and if listed or exhibit characteristics, are hazardous waste. They are, however, not subject to the hazardous waste
regulations.
•Redistillation of industrial ethyl alcohol is regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
•Used batteries that are recycled (i.e., the casing is cracked) are not included in this exemption.
•Used oil that is refined (and also exhibits a characteristic) is not subject to the hazardous waste regulations.
EPA Region 2 168
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Exhibit VIII-5
Certain Materials Are Not Subject To
Regulation When Recycled (Cont'd) -
Not Hospital Related
• Scrap metal
• A variety of reclaimed oils and oil-derived fuels associated
with oil refining
• Coke and coal tars containing hazardous wastes from iron
and steel production process (K087)
§261.2(a)(3)
•For further information on the petroleum refining and coke and coal tar wastes see 50 FR 49204 (the original burning and blending regulations).
EPA Region 2 169
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Exhibit VIII-6
In general, determination of whether a recycled
material is a solid waste depends upon the NATURE
of the material and the MANNER in which it is recycled
§261.6(a)(3)
•Recycled materials determined not to be solid wastes cannot, by definition, be hazardous wastes and thus are not subject to the hazardous waste
regulations.
EPA Region 2 170
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Exhibit VIII-7
Nature of Recycled Materials
For purposes of determining if a recycled material is a solid
waste when recycled, five classes of materials are
considered
- Spent materials
- Sludges
- By-products
- Commercial chemical products
- Scrap metal
§261.2
•All recycled material fit into one of these classes.
•Each class of materials will be discussed in detail.
EPA Region 2 171
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Exhibit VIII-8
Spent Materials
Any material that has been used and, as a result of contamination,
can no longer serve its intended purpose without reprocessing
- Spent solvents
- Spent catalysts
- Spent pickle liquor
Spent plating bath solutions
Hospital Examples:
• Used Bouin's solution
• Spent laboratory solvent
§26U(c)(l)
•Listed spent material include: F001-F005, F007, F009, F011, K021, K028, K045, K062, K088, K118.
•Materials that can continue to be used for the purposes for which they were produced (e.g., a slightly contaminated solvent that can be used for
degreasing) are not spent materials.
EPA Region 2 172
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Exhibit VIII-9
Sludge - Not Hospital Related
• Residues from pollution control devices
- Wastewater treatment plant sludges
- Electric arc furnace dust (K061)
- Baghouse dusts
§261.10
•The term sludge is defined in §260.10 as "any solid, semi-solid, or liquid waste generated from municipal, commercial, or industrial wastewater treatment
plant, or air pollution control facility, exclusive of the treated effluent from a wastewater treatment plant."
•Listed wastewater treatment sludges include F006, F012, F019, K001, K002-K007, K032, K035, K037, K040, K041, K044, K046, K048, K051, K106.
•Listed air pollution control sludges include K061, K069, K090, K091.
EPA Region 2 173
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Exhibit VIII-10
By-Products - Not Hospital Related
• Process residues that are not one of the primary products of
a production process
- Distillation column bottoms
- Heavy ends
- Slag
§26U(c)(3)
•The term by-product is defined in §261. l(c)(3) as "a material that is not one of the primary products of a production process and is not solely or separately
produced by the production process."
•By-products must be distinguished from co-products.
EPA Region 2 174
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Exhibit VIII-11
Co-Product (Not A Nature Of Recycled
Materials) - Not Hospital Related
• A material intentionally produced by the manufacturing
process and ordinarily used in its existing state as a
commodity in trade by the general public
• Co-products must have a recognized use, and must be
usable without reprocessing
§261.1(c)(3)
•Examples of co-products:
- Acetone produced when phenol is manufactured from cumene;
- Kerosene, asphalt, and pitch from petroleum refining; and
- Sulfuric acid produced in acid plants associated with smelters.
•The term co-product is discussed in the §261.1(c)(3) definition of by-product.
•Co-products are generally suitable for use as-is, without substantial reprocessing.
•See discussion on 50 FR 625 (January 4, 1985).
EPA Region 2 175
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Exhibit VIII-12
Commercial Chemical Products
• Based on statutory definition
•Includes all types of unused commercial products whether
or not they would commonly be considered chemicals
(e.g., circuit boards, thermometers, batteries, and other
types of equipment and manufactured articles)
•The compounds listed in §261.33 (P- and U- wastes)
•Also includes commercial chemical products that exhibit
a characteristic
•Includes intermediate, off-specification variants, spill residues and container residues.
•Products are generally not wastes, however, when they are recycled in ways that differ from their normal use they may be considered solid wastes .
•Examples:
- Products that are not fertilizers used by 'placement' on the land.
- Products that are not fuels burned for energy recovery.
EPA Region 2 176
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Exhibit VIII-13
Scrap Metal
• Metal pieces and parts which, when worn or superfluous,
can be recycled
• Examples
- Scrap automobiles
- Machine shop turnings
§26U(c)(6)
•Scrap metal includes:
- bits and pieces of metal, and pieces combined with bolts or soldering, and
- metal generated from machinery operations.
•The following are not scrap metal:
- residues from smelting and refining (e.g., drosses, slags).
- liquid wastes containing metal (e.g., spent acids with metals in solution).
- liquid metal wastes (e.g., mercury), and
- metal containing wastes with a significant metal content (e.g., batteries).
EPA Region 2 177
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Exhibit VIII-14
Manner of Recycling
Five methods of recycling to be considered in determining
if a recycled material is a solid waste
- Use in a manner constituting disposal
- Use as a fuel or burning for energy recovery
- Reclamation
- Speculative accumulation
- Use/reuse
§261.2(c)and(e)
•Each method will be discussed in detail.
•All recycling activities fit into one of these categories.
EPA Region 2 178
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Exhibit VIII-15
Use Constituting Disposal -
Not Hospital Related
• The material is applied to or placed on land
• The material is contained in a product applied to the land
(except for commercial chemical products that are normally
placed on the land, e.g., fertilizers)
§261.2(c)(l)
•Disposal is defined in §260.10.
•Use constituting disposal is discussed in §261.2(c)(l).
•Examples:
- Use as fill or cover,
- Use as a dust suppressant, and
- Use in asphalt or cement placed on land.
•The use of hazardous wastes in a manner constituting disposal is regulated under Subpart C of Part 266.
EPA Region 2 179
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Exhibit VIII-16
Burned For Energy Recovery/Used As
A Fuel - Not Hospital Related
• The material is burned for energy recovery in a boiler or industrial
furnace
The material is used to produce a fuel
The material is contained in a fuel
§261.2(c)
•Burning for energy recovery is regulated under Part 266, Subpart H (hazardous waste) and Subpart E (used oil).
•Any burning other than for energy recovery or for material recovery (reclamation) or as an ingredient is defined as incineration, which is a form of treatment.
not recycling. Incineration is regulated under Subpart O of Parts 264 and 265.
•The term 'boiler' is defined in §260.10 as a unit having physical provisions for recovering and exporting thermal energy in the form of steam, heated fluids, or
heated gases. The combustion chamber and primary energy recovery sections of these units must be of integral design, the unit must have a thermal energy
recovery efficiency greater than 60% and, on an annual basis, 75% of the recovery sections of these units must be of integral design, the unit must have a
thermal energy determine that individual units are boilers, on a case-by-case basis, using the criteria set forth in §260.32.
•The term 'industrial furnace' is defined in §260.10 to include:
- Cement, lime, aggregate, and phosphate kilns.
- Coke ovens,
- Blast furnaces,
- Smelting, melting, and refining furnaces,
- TiO2 chloride process oxidation reactors,
- Methane reforming and pulping liquor recovery furnaces.
- Spent sulfuric acid recovery combustion units,
- Halogen acid furnace, and
- Units added to the list by the Administrator based on the criteria in §260.10.
EPA Region 2 180
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Exhibit VIII-17
Reclamation - Not Hospital Related
• Processing to recover a usable product
• Regeneration
§261.2(c)(4)
•Reclamation is defined in §261. l(c)(4).
•Wastes are processed to recover usable product when distinct components of the material that are of value are recovered (e.g., recovery of metals from
electroplating wastewater treatment sludges (F006)).
•Wastes are regenerated when they are processed to remove contaminants in a way that restores them to their usable original condition (e.g., distillation of
spent solvents).
EPA Region 2 181
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Exhibit VIII-18
Speculative Accumulation
• Speculative accumulation is defined as the accumulation of waste
materials prior to recycling without sufficient amounts being recycled
• Sufficient amount is defined as at least 75% during a calendar year
• EPA may grant a variance on a case-by-case basis for materials that are
accumulated speculatively (§260.30)
Hospital Examples:
• Stockpiled electronics
• Excess materials that are no longer needed or used at facility
(e.g., old paints and cleaning supplies) that are listed or exhibit
a characteristic
• Expired pharmaceuticals that are not returned to manufacturer
that are listed or exhibit a characteristic
§261.1(c)(8)
•75% is calculated on an annual (January 1 to January 1) basis.
•The speculative accumulation provisions are only relevant for materials generally defined not to be solid waste (see chart on following page).
EPA Region 2 182
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Exhibit VIII-19
Use/Reuse
• Recyclable materials are not solid wastes when
- Used or reused as ingredients or feedstocks in
production process
- Used or reused as effective substitutes for commercial
products
- Returned directly to the original primary production
process in which they are generated
§261.2(e)(l)
•Use/reuse is defined in §261.1(c)(5).
•Examples:
- Still bottoms from carbon tetrachloride manufacture (K016) are used as a feedstock in tetrachloroethylene production.
- Use of spent pickle liquor (KOI6) as a wastewater conditioner.
- Use of fly ash from electric power production as a feedstock in the manufacture of cement.
EPA Region 2 183
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Exhibit VIII-20
Use/Reuse (Cont'd)
Materials must be used, reused, or returned to original
process directly without first being reclaimed
These exclusions do not apply to materials used in a manner
constituting disposal, burned for energy recovery, or
speculatively accumulated (§261.2(e)(2))
•Exclusion is crafted to distinguish between production processes (over which the Agency does not have authority under RCRA) and waste management
process (over which the Agency does have authority under RCRA).
•Incidental processing is not considered reclamation (e.g., wetting materials to minimize wind dispersal, briquetting of dry wastes, combination of
feedstocks).
EPA Region 2 184
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Exhibit VIII-21
Use/Reuse (Cont'd)
Hospital Example: Cerrobend
• X-Ray shielding putty used to protect patients from
damage to adjacent healthy tissue during irradiation of
tumors and other confined areas
• Contains lead and cadmium
• Discarded materials and shavings can be characteristic
toxic HW when discarded
• Can be reshaped and reused many times before being
discarded
EPA Region 2 185
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Exhibit VIII-22
When are Recycled Materials
Regulated?
Spent materials
Sludges that are listed
hazardous wastes
Sludges exhibiting a
characteristic of
hazardous waste
By-products that are listed
hazardous wastes
By-products exhibiting a
characteristic of
hazardous waste
Commercial chemical
products
Scrap metal
Use Constituting
Disposal
(261.2(c)(l))
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Energy
Recovery/Fuel
(261.2(c)(2)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Reclamation
(261.2(c)(3))
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Speculative
Accumulation
(261.2(c)(4))
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Use/Reuse
(261.2(e)(l))
No
No
No
No
No
No
EPA Region 2
186
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Exhibit VIII-23
Certain Recycled Materials Are
Regulated Under Part 266
• Materials used in a manner constituting disposal (Subpart C)
• Used oil burned for energy recovery (Subpart E)
•Subpart C subjects all other materials used in a manner constituting disposal to all applicable hazardous waste regulations (Parts 262-268, 270, 124)
(i.e., interim status or permits and land disposal unit standards.)
•Subpart C exempts products containing recyclable hazardous wastes produced for the general public's use and used in a manner constituting disposal
from the hazardous waste regulations if:
- The hazardous waste has undergone a chemical reaction such that it is inseparable by physical means from the other constituents of the product; and
- The product meets the applicable land disposal restriction of Part 268 (fertilizers containing K061 are not subject to regulation without conditions).
•See discussion on used oil in Exhibit IV, Listed Wastes.
•All used oil burned for energy recovery is regulated under Subpart E. The authority for regulation of used oil that does not exhibit characteristics (i.e., is
not hazardous waste) is the Used Oil Recycling Act of 1980 (Section 3014 of RCRA).
•Used oil burned for energy recovery that has been mixed with listed hazardous wastes is subject to Subpart D (the rebuttable presumption).
EPA Region 2 187
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Exhibit VIII-24
Certain Recycled Materials Are
Regulated Under Part 266 (Cont'd)
• Recyclable materials utilized for precious metals recovery
(Subpart F)
• Spent lead-acid batteries being reclaimed (Subpart G)
• Silver recovery from photo and X-Ray processing
§261.6(a)(2)
•Hazardous wastes from which precious metals are reclaimed are subject only to notification, manifesting, and recordkeeping requirements except as
required by §§260.40 and 41.
•Reclamation of spent lead-acid batteries involves cracking the casing (regeneration does not, see §261.6(a)(3)(ii)).
•Generators and transporters of lead-acid batteries that are reclaimed are not subject to the hazardous waste regulations. Reclaimers are subject to Part 264
requirements, excluding manifest and waste analysis provisions, for storage of the batteries prior to reclamation.
EPA Region 2 188
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Exhibit VIII-25
Certain Recycled Materials Are
Regulated Under Part 266 (Cont'd) -
Not Hospital Related
• Hazardous waste burned in boilers and industrial furnaces
(Subpart H)
§261.6(a)(2)
•Subpart H exempts certain hazardous wastes from regulation under this subpart:
- Used oil burned for energy recovery subject to Subpart E.
- Gas recovered from hazardous or solid waste landfills when such gas is burned for energy recovery.
- Hazardous waste exempt from regulations under §2621.4, §261.6(a)(3) (v-viii) and §261.5, and
- Coke ovens if burning K087.
EPA Region 2 189
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Exhibit VIII-26
Regulation of Recycled Materials
• Hazardous wastes prior to reclamation are subject to the full
set of hazardous waste regulations (Parts 262-268, 270, and
124)
• The reclamation process itself is exempt from regulation
§261.6(a)(l),(b),and(c)
•Generation, transportation, and storage prior to reclamation are fully regulated.
•By-products from the reclamation process may also be regulated hazardous waste.
•Reclamation processes maybe subject to the air emissions control requirements of Parts 264 and 265 if applicable (§261.6(d)).
EPA Region 2 190
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Exhibit VIII-27
On-Going Review Of The Definition
Of Solid Waste
• October 28, 2003: Proposed rule for "Revisions to
Definition of Solid Waste"
• Comment period ended January 26, 2004
• Proposed rule aims to identify certain recyclable hazardous
secondary materials as not discarded
• If these materials are exempted from the definition of solid
waste, then the wastes no longer are regulated under
Subtitle C
•Industry challenged EPA's authority under RCRA to regulate certain recycled hazardous materials in court cases in 1987, 1988, and twice in 1990 where
the definition of solid waste was interpreted by the court system.
•The proposed rule will redefine solid waste.
EPA Region 2 191
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Exhibit VIII-28
Relevant Federal Regulations
40 CFR Part 261
SubpartB Section 261. l(c)
Section 261.2(c), (d), (e)
Section 261.6
40 CFR Part 266
Subpart C
Subpart D
Subpart E
Subpart F
40 CFR Part 273
Subpart A
Subpart B
EPA Region 2 192
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r \,
Exhibit VIII
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9441.1933(35)
X'^Vf
i UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
f WASHINGTON. O.C. 20460
v« ^
""" 1^5
SOLID WASTE AND
J. D. Akenhead
Hazardous Waste Specialist
Nevada Small Business Development Center
College of Business Administration
University of Nevada - Reno
Reno, Nevada 8955-0100
Dear Mr. Akenhead:
This is in response to your July 8, 1988, letter concerning
the regulatory status of dry cleaners who recycle spent
cartridge filters. You should note that the following is an
explanation of Federal rules. Individual States may adopt more
stringent rules under their own authorities.
As explained to you by Mike Petruska in your telephone
conversation of July 19, under Federal rules (40 CFR Section
261.5(c)), a generator should count only that hazardous waste
that is subject to regulation or minimal regulation when making
the small quantity generator determinations in Section 261.5 or
Section 262.34(d). See 40 CFR 261.5(c). Hazardous waste that
is directly recycled on-site (i.e.. without prior storage) is
not counted because presently EPA does not regulate on-site
reclamation processes. (See the preamble discussion of March
24, 1986, 51 FR 10152, enclosed for your information.)
This means that, although the spent filters do in fact
contain hazardous waste, a generator need not count them against
the 100 kilogram monthly limit as long as he places the filter
in the distillation unit directly, without intervening storage.
Residues from the still would, however, have to be counted. If
however, the dry cleaner must store or accumulate the spent
cartridge filters before they are recycled, the "wet" filter
when first removed from the unit would have to be counted in
calculating the quantity of hazardous waste generated.
-------
- 2 -
If you have further questions in this area, please contact
Mike Petruska directly at (202) 475-9888.
Sincerely,
Sylvia K. Lowrance, Director
Office of Solid Waste
Enclosure
-------
ATIS IKV1tOM*«NTAL PtOTECTlOW }EMCT
9441. 1955:2
JUL 29 SB8
Mr. Sol L. Colon . .
Environmental Quality Official
Western Fher Laboratories, Inc.
P.O. Box 7468
Ponce, P.R. 00732
Dear Mr. Colon:
•I am writing in response to your letter dated June 13, 1988, in
which you requested our interpretation of the hazardousness of a
waste generated and treated at your facility in Ponce, P.R. Also,
you requested confirmation that your treatment process does not
require a RCRA permit.
Specifically, you treat a liquid waste containing about 18%
acid and 1% organic material by evaporating some of the water
(which is condensed and sent to the facility's wastewater treatment
plant) and transferring the concentrated acid solution to a
concrete mixer where it is mixed with kiln dust to form a dry solid
for disposal.
On July 8, 1988, Bd Abrams, a member of my staff, telephoned
you to determine the composition of the 1% organic component of
your waste and the.jtype of kiln dust. Your response identified the
organic materials .4s organic acids such as oxolic and tartaric
acids, and not organic solvents. Also, you identified the fciln
dust as cement kiln dust, a solid waste which is not a hazardous
waste (see 40 C/R 261.4 (b)(8)).
Assuming that your liquid waste being treated is only
characteristically hazardous because of corrosivity, the dry waste
generated ffpm the treatment would not be considered hazardous if
it does not^exhibit any of the characteristics of hazardous waste
(see 40 CFR 261.20*24), but your operation would be considered
treatment of a hazardous waste. However, sines it is being done at
the sits of waste generation in tanks, a RCRA permit would be
required only if you stored your wests for periods exceeding 90
days prior to treatment. Zf treatment wss being done off site, a
RCRA storsgs permit would be required in say case.
COXUtttMCtl
•9***
^•••W******
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. UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. O.C. 20480
, .
*t ••on*-
APR 2 0 '953
SOUO WASTE AND EME«G£NCv
H. David Bowes, President
Finish Engineering Company, Inc.
921 Greengarden Road
Erie, PA 16501-1591
Dear Mr. Bowes:
This is in response to your letter of April 12, 1988,
concerning generator determinations (i.e., "counting rules") for
users of solvent stills. EPA provided a very relevant example of
how the counting rules work in the preamble of the March 24,
1986, Federal Register (51 EB 10153) which I have enclosed for
your information. Basically, the rules (40 CFR Section 261.5(a))
state that if a generator reclaims (e.g., distills spent solvent)
but does not store the spent solvents prior to reclamation, he
need only count the still bottoms. If he stores the spent
solvents before reclamation, however, he must count the spent
solvent as noted in 40 CFR 26l.5(d)(3), but then he need not
count the still bottoms.
Finally, the letter you enclosed from Mr. Claunch has been
entered in the docket for EPA's Definition of Solid Waste
rulemaJcing, and will be considered as we develop final amendments
for the Definition. If you have further questions in this area,
please contact Michael Petruska at 475-9888.
Sincerely,
Matthew A. Straus
Acting Deputy. Director
Characterization and Assessment
Division
Enclosure
-------
-2-
f solvents contained in filter cartridges are removed from
the dry cleaning machine, they are no longer exempt from
regulation* The still bottoms from solvent reclamation,
while solid and hazardous wastes, are not required to be
counted until they exit the unit and become subject to
[ substantive regulation (see 51 Federal Register 10152,
\ March 24, 1986 and 40 CFR 261. 5(c)).
f I trust that this explanation will clarify the confusion
that exists over the article that Mr. Kelly attached. For
additional information, I have enclosed a copy of a handbook
we have developed for small businesses to help them comply
with the new statutorily mandated regulations for small
quantity generators. Should Mr. Kelly have any additional
questions on the hazardous waste regulations, he should
feel free to contact Bob Axelrad, of my staff, at (202)
382-4761. If I can be of further assistance, please let me
know.
Sincerely,
J. Winston Porter
Assistant Administrator
Enclosure
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9441.1937(95)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AC
WASHINGTON O.C 204<0
i-C«
?.ic.K.ard Sklar
President
Recyclene Products, Inc.
405 Eccles Avenue, South
San Francisco, CA 94080
Dear Mr. Sklar:
This is in response to your letter of November 13, 1987, in
which you requested clarification of the RCRA small quantity
hazardous waste generator regulations. In the example you give,
generators of less than 100 kilograms of non-acutely hazardous
waste per month recycle their own solvents on-site and thereby
produce distillation bottoms. The regulatory status of such *
generators is determined by 40 CFR Section 261.5(a) and (d)(2).
A generator who treats or reclaims on-site need not count the
treatment residues, so long as the original waste (in this case
the spent solvents) is counted once. Therefore, if a generator
produces less than 100 kilograms of non-acutely hazardous waste
per month, he may reclaim it on-site and would remain
conditionally exempt under Section 261.5.
Generators of less than 100 kilograms of non-acutely
hazardous waste per month have a number of options for disposal
of their hazardous waste. According to 40 CFR 261.5(g)(3), a
conditionally small quantity generator (SGQ) may either treat,
store, or dispose of the waste at an on-site or off-site
facility licensed, permitted or otherwise approved by a State to
manage municipal or industrial solid waste. Recycling
facilities may also receive waste from conditionally exempt
SQG's. These management options exist for any conditionally
exempt SQG's hazardous waste, including residue generated from
solvent recycling operations.
-------
Although the Federal regulations allow a conditionally
exempt SQG to send waste to a State-approved solid waste
facility, some States have stricter requirements for generators
of less than 100 kilograms of non-acutely hazardous waste per
month. The conditionally exempt SQG.should check with the State
to see if any additional requirements apply.
Finally, as a side note, you mention in your letter that
the sludge produced in your solvent recovery distillation unit
is generally dry and passes the paint filter liquids test.
However, it is confusing as how your sludge is tested. You
state that the "sludge... passes the paint filter test since the
sludge is contained in a plastic bag or liner—" I would like
to clarify that the waste itself is to be tested in the Paint
Filter test; testing of a liquid waste contained in a bag would
pass the test, but it would be obvious that the waste is a *
liquid.
If you have further questions in this area contact Mike
Petruska at (202) 475-8551.
Sincerely,
Marcia £. Williams
Director
Office of Solid Waste
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9441.193"(32)
RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
APRIL 87
3. Multiple Generator Location and Consolidation
A conpany owns several small factories in different counties. Each
factory generates less than 100 kilograms of hazardous waste per
rtontn, and is subject to reduced regulation under $261.5. Options
for disposal of waste from conditionally exempt generators are
provided in $261.5(f)(3). (a) May the conditionally exempt generators
transport waste to one of the company's facilities for consolidation
and subsequent shipment to a RCRA disposal facility? (b) Does the
facility of the generator who is consolidating the waste qualify as
a "transfer facility"? (c) Does the generator who consolidates the
waste become a full quantity generator if he ships more than 1000 kg
of hazardous waste from his site per month? (or a 100-1000 kg/mo
generator if he ships between 100 and 1000 kg of waste per month?)
(a) Under 5261.5(f)(3) in order to remain exempt from certain
regulations, a conditionally exempt snail quantity
generator may ensure delivery of his hazardous waste to a
storage, treatment, or disposal faclity that is one the
foil-Ming types of facilities:
(i.) permitted under Part 270 of 40 CFR; or
(ii.) in interim status under Parts 265 and 270
of 40 CFR; or
(iii.) authorized to manage hazardous waste by a
state with a hazardous waste management
program approved under Part 271 of 40 CFR; or
-3-
-------
- (tv.) licensed, registered or permitted by the
state to manage municipal or industrial
&.- solid waste; or
\. -(v.) benefically uses, reuses or reclaims the waste.
In order for one of the generators to serve as a central collection
point for tne other generators, he would have to qualify as one
of the above mentioned facilities. Realistically, the easiest
approach would be for the generator to receive State approval
to manage the consolidated waste shipments.
(b) If the generator does not receive authorization from his
State, he may still receive and store the waste for a
period of time if he qualifies as a transfer facility.
Under $263.12, waste may be stored at a transfer facility
for ten days or less without requiring-interim status or a
permit. The December 31, 1980 Federal Register
(45 FR 86966) defines the term transfer facility to refer
to transportation terminals (including vehicle parking areas,
loading docks and other similar areas), break-bulk facilities
or any other facility commonly used by transporters to
temporarily hold shipments of hazardous waste during
transportation. It is possible that this generator facility
may qualify as a transfer facility, as long as the waste
is not stored on-site for more than 10 days.
(c) If the waste is not s«nt to a facility specified under
S261.5(g)(3)tl)-(v), it is no longer conditionally exempt
waste, and each generator must comply with applicable
regulations. Thus, if the generator cannot receive state
approval nor qualify as a transfer facility, he must obtain
a permit for storage of hazardous waste.
Source: Maureen Smith (202) 382-T706
Research: Chris Byrant (202) 382-3112
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RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
FEBRUARY 87
i. 9nail Quantity Generator Detennination
A recycler regenerates listed spent solvent (F005) that he receives
from off-site. The recycler burns the still oottoms and a portion
of the reclaimed solvent on-site in an industrial furnace. He
sells the remaining reclaimed solvent to two companies: one that will
bum it as fuel and one that will use the solvent for its solvent
properties. How does the recycler count the still bottoms and
reclaimed solvent for the purpose of small quantity generator monthly
quantity determinations?
The recycler lust include the still bottoms in his quantity
determinations because they are hazardous waste generated on-
site and burned for energy recovery. As a hazardous waste
fuel, they are subject to 40 CFR Part 266 Subpart D. According
to $261.5(c)/ a generator roust count wastes subject to Part 266
subpart D in his monthly quantity determination. The reclaimed
solvent fuels that are burned on-site and marketed off-site are .
suDject to Part 266 Subpart D and the counting requirements.
The only waste quantity that the recycler does not include in
his quantity determinations is the reclaimed solvent that will
be used for its solvent properties. 40 CFR 261.3(c)(2)(i)
exempts reclaimed materials that will be used beneficially from
regulation as wastes as long as they are not burned for energy
recovery or used in a manner constituting disposal. Because
the reclaimed solvent will be used as a solvent and not a fuel
or product applied to the land, it would not be included in the
monthly quantity determinations.
Source: Mike Petruska (202) 475-8551
Specialist: Jennifer Brock (202)382-3112
-2-
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3441.1986(67)
\ UM :D b VATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. O.C. 204(0
SEP 8 (985
OMICCOF
SOLID WASTC ANO IMENCCNCY RESIGNS
Honorable Frank H. Murkowski Re: Pile 115579
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Murkowski:
Thank you for your August 8, 1986, letter on behalf of
your constituent, Mr. George Kelly, regarding the potential
impact of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) regu-
lations on the dry-cleaning industry*
Unfortunately, the article which Mr. Kelly enclosed
provided an incorrect explanation of our Small Quantity
Generator (SQG) rule issued under the Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act (RCRA). The RCRA rules actually require
dry cleaning hazardous wastes to be counted for purposes of
determining a dry cleaner's regulatory status only when
they are physically removed from the dry cleaning process
as wastes.
The two types of hazardous wastes typically generated
by dry cleaners are filter cartridges containing listed
spent solvents and still bottoms from solvent reclamation.
Under our counting rules, these wastes are only counted as
hazardous waste when they are removed from the dry cleaning
process for subsequent management, including accumulation,
transportation, treatment, or disposal. Under no circumstances
are these materials regulated under the hazardous waste
rules while they are in the dry cleaning machine.
The.so-called single counting system referred to in
the article actually simplified the counting of hazardous
waste by eliminating the need to count the same waste more
than once in a calendar month. It is intended to apply to
regulated materials which are used and reused over and o.ver
during a calendar month* However, this rule only comes
into play if the hazardous waste is subject to counting.
since the solvents in the dry cleaning machine are not
considered to be solid or hazardous wastes while part of a
closed loop reclamation process (see 51 Federal Register /
25422, July 14, 1986), they are not subject to counting
while in the dry cleaning machine. However, when the spent
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9441.1986(64)
RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
AUGUST 86
6. SQG Quantity Determinations
The new small quantity generator (SQG) regulations, effective
Septarber 22, 1986, establish standards under 40 CFR 261. 5(c)
and (d) for counting hazardous waste generated on a monthly
basis. 40 CFR 261.5(d)(3) states that an SQG need not include
spent materials that have been reclaijned and
S^S^L?" q*ra^ *<«»*«*». prcvidey
been counted once. The regulation does not specify,
whether this allc^nce applies only within a^Sh
"*
** ****>!*• if an SQG oomts and
a solvent on-site in October and uses it again in
, must the SQG include the spent solvent in^
quantity determination for November?
Yes; the SQG must include the reused material in the quantity
determination for the subsequent ronth, assuming that itbec
l
All
JiL^S^19 °CC?rS ^ * 1R^-to-n«th basis, so the "multiple
costing exemption only applies within one month. Therefore,
a SQG would only count a material once if the SQG reclaims and
reuses it more than once within one month, in addition, the SQG
8^r2J!02-?ie ana*nce *« 40 CFR 261.5(c) (51 PR 10174) which
excludes fron monthly counting wastes that are suBJect only to
waste identification. RCRA §3010 notification. reeoWepinVand
ltS^J*??rt rec*ui«n«Ks. Tne SQG must count wastes that are
5?*^ of Part 262 traanifesting, on-site accunulation,
•6(b) or (c), or Part 266 Subparts C, D, or F.
Source: Bob Axelrad (202) 382-4769
Research: Jennifer Brock
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9441.1986(47)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. DC. 20460
/
•/ SOUO AASTE AND SMEQOc'.C
Honorable Robert S. Walker
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Mr. Walker:
Thank you for your letter of May 1, 1986, on behalf of your
constituent, concerning his questions pertaining to three
chemicals which he uses in his trade as a painting contractor.
Specifically, he requests information on any federal regulations
relating to the disposal, sewage treatment, and neutralization
of methylene chloride, muriatic acid, and isocyanates, as well*
as information on any health hazards associated with their use.
We are reading the first two chemicals in your letter to
be methylene chloride and muriatic acid. Methylene chloride
is used as a solvent and is a listed hazardous waste — EPA
Hazardous Waste No. POQ2. The listing includes the following
spent halogenated solvents: tetrachloroethylene, methylene
chloride, trichloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichlorothene, 1,1,2-tri-
chloroethane, chlorobenzene, l,l,2-trichloro-l,2,2-trifluoroethane,
ortho-dichlorobenzene, and trichlorofluoromethane. "Unused methylene
chloride that is discarded is also defined as a hazardous waste.
Muriatic acid is also likely classified as a hazardous waste
based on its -corrosivity (i.e., it likely has a pH less than 2).
The third chemical, isocyanates, is a class of chemicals; thus,
before we can respond to your request, we would need to know
specifically which compound or compounds your constituent is
using in order to address his concerns*
If your constituent generates more than 100 kilograms
(220 pounds) of methylene chloride, muriatic acid, or any other
hazardous vasts in a calendar month at his place of work or
at individual work sites, he is classified as a hazardous
waste generator and thereby subject to the hazardous waste
regulations. New regulations were just promulgated for generators
of between 100 kilograms and 1000 kilograms per calendar month
of hazardous waste. (See enclosed brochure and Federal Register
notice. These requirements become effective on September 22,
1986.) If your constituent generates less than 100 kilograms of
waste in a calendar month, good disposal practice.would dictate
that he use an off-site hazardous waste storage, treatment, or
-------
disposal facility for his waste, although he may legally dispose
of such waste at any state approved solid waste facility.
Your constituent should contact the organization at the address
listed below for additional information pertaining to small
quantity generators.
Ms. Eleanor W. Winsor, Executive Vice-president
Pennsylvania Environmental Research Foundation
Mezzanine—Lewis Tower Building
225 South 15th Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102
(215) 735-0966
With respect to the question relating to neutralization
of these chemicals, it is our opinion that it is not possible
for your constituent to neutralize methylene chloride at his
place of business. Muriatic acid, however, can be neutralized.
With respect to the potential health hazards associated
with roethylene chloride and muriatic acid, he should be aware
that methylene chloride is a potential carcinogen. Muriatic
acid, on the other hand, while a corrosive chemical is not
highly toxic. For further information on the proper use and
storage of these chemicals in the workplace, he should
contact the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) at the address given below.
Or. James Melius
NIOSH/DSHEFSS
Mail Stop R12
Hot 40A Ridge Bldg.
4676 Columbia Parkway
Cincinnati Ohio 45226
(513) 841-4428
I also strongly recommend that your constituent contact
the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources at the
address listed below to discuss these issues in greater detail.
Depending on the specific nature of his business activities, he
may be subject to more stringent state regulations pertaining
to hazardous waste disposal.
-Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources
Bureau of Solid Waste Management
P.O. Box 2063
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17120
(717) 787-6239 .
-------
Please feel free to write me if you have any further
questions.
Sincerely,
J. Winston Porter
Assistant Administrator
Enclosure
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RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
MAY 86
Small Quantity Generators/Parts Washers/Vfaste Counting
An owner/operator (o/o) of a service station leases a parts washer
containing mineral spirits fron the Safety-Kleen Corporation. The
o/o uses the mineral spirits on a daily basis to degrease parts
on-site. The spent mineral spirits exhibit a flash-point less
than 140° F. -^ o/o.s Bitten contract with Safety-Kleen requires
Safety-Kleen to collect the mineral spirits for reclamation and to
deposit regenerated or new mineral spirits at the service station
every eight weeks. The o/o is a "100-1000 kg/no generator" of
hazardous wastes.
When, if ever, do the o/o's mineral spirits become regulated as a
hazardous waste? According to the revised small quantity generator
regulations which appeared in the March 24, 1986 Federal Register,
are the mineral spirits counted in determining the amount of
hazardous waste generated?
Section 261.4(c) exempts "[aj hazardous waste which is
generated...in a manufacturing process unit or an associated
nonwaste-treatment-manufacturing unit" from regulation under
Parts 262 through 265 and the notification requirements of
Section 3010 of RCRA.. The material is only subject to
regulation when it is removed from the unit in which it was
generated or if the material remains in the unit for more than
90 days after the unit ceases to be operated for manufacturing
purposes. In this specific case, the parts washer leased from
Safety-Kleen is functioning as a manufacturing process unit.
The parts washer is a containerized unit used in degreasing
operations. Therefore, the mineral spirits will not be subject
to regulations under Parts 262-265, 270, 271, 124, and Section
3010 until they are eraptied from the parts washer container
or until they remain within a nonoperational parts washer for
more than 90 days, whichever occurs first.
Under the March 24, 1986 rules, waste exempt from some regulations
under 5261.4(c) are not counted. As long as the waste is exempt
under $261.4(c), it need not be counted. However, the mineral
spirits would be counted in determining the amount of hazardous
waste generated on-site as soon as the mineral spirits are
removed from the parts washer unit or after they remain in the
non-operating unit for more than 90 days. If the mineral
spirits remain within the parts washer unit for 90 days or
less after the unit ceases operation, then they will not be
counted towards the quantity determination of the service
station o/o.
Source: Maureen Smith (202) 382-7703
Matthew Straus (202) 475-8551
Research: Margaret Kneller
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9441.1980(05)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
* NOV 1 7 1980
Mr. Willian A. McClintic
Defense Division
Srunswicfc Corporation
150 Johnston Road
Marion, Virginia 24354
Dear Mr. MeClintic:
This is in response to your letter of Septeisber 25, 1980, asking
for clarification of the applicability of our hazardous waste nanageraent
regulations to very small quantities of hazardous wastes generated
by a generator who also generates a large quantity of hazardous waste.
-The snail quantity generator special requirenents of $261.5 of our
Regulations are only available to generators that generate an aggregate
?ount of hazardous wastes of less than 1000 kilograms per nonth at any
ne site or facility. If the aggregate actount of hazardous wastes
generated at a site or facility exceeds this monthly amount, then the
special requirenents of §261.5 do hot apply to any of the hazardous
wastes generated at that »ite or facility. I air, afraid, therefore,
that the very snail quantities of hazardous waste generated at your
Marion facility are subject to the "full" regulations because the single
large quantity of hazardous waste disqualifies the facility for the
special small quantity generator requirenents.
T h9-*« this sufrxciteiitly answers your questions.
Sincerely yours.
Gary H. Dietrich
Associate Deputy Assistant Administrator
for Solid \Jaste
bcc: Filomena Chau w/incoming
WH:GDietrich:bm:ll/13/80j401 M
COMCUHHIHCfJ
U~
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- - -'- • -..-.•..A ^« •*•.-.
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Universal
Waste Rule
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Exhibit IX
Universal Waste Rule
Overheads from Presentations
Relevant Federal Regulatory Citations
Other Guidance
RCRA Policy Excerpts
EPA Region 2 193
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Exhibit IX-1
Universal Waste Rule
EPA finalized the Universal Waste Rule on May 11, 1995
- Done to streamline recycling efforts for commercial and
industrial groups. Exempts hazardous wastes that are
generated domestically as well
- Universal wastes are not regulated under full RCRA
Subpart C, but rather by streamlined Universal Waste
Rules (40 CFR 273)
EPA Region 2 194
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Exhibit IX-2
Universal Waste Rule (Cont'd)
• The universal waste rule exempts the following:
- Hazardous waste batteries
- Hazardous waste thermostats (mercury containing
thermostats)
- Certain lamps
- Certain hazardous waste pesticides
EPA Region 2 195
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Exhibit IX-2
Universal Waste Rule (Cont'd)
• States have autonomy when it comes to the Universal Waste
Rule:
- States do not have to adopt it
- States can add or remove wastes
- States can also have more stringent requirements
- NY uses federal guidelines for Universal Waste
- NJ has state guidelines for Universal Waste Rule and
includes computer monitors (CRTs) as universal wastes
- Federal rule applies in PR and VI
EPA Region 2 196
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Exhibit IX-4
Examples of Hospital Universal Waste
• Nickel cadmium or sealed lead-acid batteries found in
Electronic equipment
Mobile phones
Laptop computers
Emergency back up lighting
• Mercury-containing thermostats
• Lamps that have a hazardous component
Fluorescent lights
High intensity discharge lamps
Neon lamps
Mercury vapor lamps
High pressure sodium lamps
Metal halide lamps
EPA Region 2
197
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Exhibit IX-5
Proposed Rule
• Proposed rule - June 12, 2002
• Exclusion from the definition of solid waste which would
streamline RCRA management requirements for used CRTs
and glass removed from CRTs sent for recycling
• Also sought comment on streamlining management
requirements for used mercury-containing equipment by
adding it to the federal list of universal wastes
• http://www.Epa.Gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/recycle/electron/
crt.Htm
EPA Region 2 198
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Exhibit IX-6
Relevant Federal Regulations
40 CFR Section 273
Subpart A
Subpart B
EPA Region 2 199
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Exhibit IX-7
Other Guidance
Guidance Material on the Universal Waste Rule
and Hospitals
EPA Region 2 200
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Generator
Requirements
-------
Exhibit X
Generator Requirements
Overheads from Presentations
Relevant Federal Regulatory Citations
Other Guidance
RCRA Policy Excerpts
EPA Region 2 201
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Exhibit X-l
Three Tiers of Generators
Conditionally-Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQGs)
Small Quantity Generators
Large Quantity Generators (LQGs)
•In 1980, EPA recognized it could not administer a regulatory program with more than 100,000 in the regulated community.
•Therefore, they used existing information to determine a reasonable "cut-off point for small quantity generators who would be excluded from
regulation. They used the traditional "20-80" concept - 20% of the generators produce 80% of the wastes.
•This resulted in a 1000 kg/mo designation as an SQG. This amounts to about four 55-gallon drums for materials with a density similar to water.
•The preamble to the regulation, however, committed EPA to evaluate the cut-off and revise the regulations as necessary to reflect their findings.
•Under HSWA, Congress mandated the EPA to lower the cut-off.
•In 1985, EPA amended the regulations to establish a three-tiered system for designating generators.
EPA Region 2 202
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Exhibit X-2
CESQGs
• Produce < or = 100 kg/mo of non-acute hazardous waste
• Produce < 1 kg/mo of acute hazardous waste (e.g.,
epinephrine and ethylene oxide)
• Produce < 100 kg/mo of residue or contaminated soil, waste,
or other debris from spill clean-up of acutely hazardous waste
EPA Region 2 203
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Exhibit X-3
SQGs
Produce between 100 kg and 1000 kg/mo of non-acute
hazardous waste
Produce < 1 kg/mo of acute hazardous waste
Produce < 100 kg/mo of residue or contaminated soil, waste,
or other debris from spill clean-up of acute hazardous waste
EPA Region 2 204
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Exhibit X-4
LQGs
Produce >= 1000 kg/mo of non-acute hazardous waste
Produce >= 1 kg/mo of acute hazardous waste
Produce >= 100 kg/mo or residue or contaminated soil, waste,
or other debris from spill cleanup of acute hazardous waste
EPA Region 2 205
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Exhibit X-5
Regulations
• CESQGs regulated under 261.5
• SQGs must meet limited requirements in Part 262
• LQGs must meet full set of Part 262 requirements
EPA Region 2 206
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Exhibit X-6
Regulation Status is Determined on a
Month-to-Month Basis
• A generator may produce less than 100 kg in January but
greater than 1000 kg in February
• January - CESQG
• February-LQG
During the LQG months, the full set of Subtitle C rules
applies and facility is subject to applicable annual reporting
requirements for that year
EPA Region 2 207
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Exhibit X-7
Generator Status
• Most Hospitals are SQGs
• Practices such as remodeling X-ray areas (lead shielding
discarded) or periodic storage room cleanouts can result in
classification as a LQG that month
EPA Region 2
208
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Exhibit X-8
Waste Counting
Non-acute hazardous waste, acute hazardous waste, and
universal wastes are calculated separately
Your building/clinic may be part of a larger facility and
subject to regulations based on total hazardous waste
generation
EPA Region 2 209
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Exhibit X-9
Waste Counting, continued
If a hazardous waste has been included in the quantity
determination one month, do not count it again when
removing it from storage, or count any hazardous waste
derived from on-site treatment of that hazardous waste
Similarly, don't count spent materials generated, reclaimed
and subsequently reused on-site if already included in quantity
determination
EPA Region 2 210
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Exhibit X-10
EPA ID Number
• Requirement for SQGs and LQGs
• NJ also requires numbers for certain CE-SQGs
• EPA and states use these 12-character numbers to monitor and
track waste activities
• You will need the number when you send waste off site to be
managed
• EPA ID numbers can be obtained from EPA Region 2 offices:
call (212) 63 7-4106
EPA Region 2 211
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Exhibit X-11
Quantity Limits For Non-Acute
Hazardous Wastes
• CE-SQGs can accumulate on-site up to 1,000 kg or 2,200 Ibs
at any time
• SQGs can accumulate on-site up to 6,000 kg or 13,200 Ibs at
any time
• LQGs have no limit
EPA Region 2 212
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Exhibit X-12
Quantity Limits For Acute Hazardous
Wastes
• CE-SQGs and SQGs can accumulate on-site less than 1 kg at
any time
• CE-SQGs and SQGs can accumulate on-site less than 100 kg
of spill debris
• LQGs have no limit
EPA Region 2 213
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Exhibit X-13
Time Limits
CE-SQGs have no time limit
SQGs can store waste no more than 180 days (270 days if
TSDF is more than 200 miles away)
LQGs can store waste no more than 90 days without a permit
EPA Region 2 214
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Exhibit X-14
Proper Management
SQGs and LQGs need to keep HW containers sealed (except
when adding or removing waste), in good condition and
secured from failure
SQGs and LQGs must conduct weekly inspections with log
book entries
EPA Region 2 215
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Exhibit X-15
Proper Management, continued
SQGs and LQGs must label each container with:
• "Hazardous Waste"
• Specific description of contents
• Date on which accumulation began (also see satellite
accumulation)
EPA Region 2 216
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Exhibit X-16
Emergency Planning
LQGs and SQGs must have an adequate internal alarm or
communication system. Voice is ok for small facilities.
LQGs and SQGs must designate an Emergency Coordinator
who is on the premises or on-call at all times.
EPA Region 2 217
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Exhibit X-17
Emergency Planning, continued
LQGs and SQGs must have a telephone at the site for calling
emergency assistance and post emergency response
information by the phone, including the name, office, and
home phone numbers, and address of the emergency
coordinator.
LQGs and SQGs must ensure adequate aisle space for
emergency response.
EPA Region 2 218
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Exhibit X-18
Emergency Planning, continued
SQGs and LQGs must ensure adequate water for fire fighting
SQGs and LQGs must have available, know the location of,
and maintain:
• Fire extinguishers and alarms
• Spill control material
• Decontamination supplies
EPA Region 2 219
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Exhibit X-19
Emergency Planning, continued
SQGs and LQGs must make advanced emergency
arrangements with:
• Fire department
• Police department
• Emergency response teams
• Equipment suppliers & emergency contractors (often
handled by transporter/TSDF)
• Hospitals
EPA Region 2 220
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Exhibit X-20
Emergency Planning, continued
LQGs are required to prepare a written contingency plan
which must be designed to minimize hazards from fires,
explosions, or any unplanned release of hazardous waste or
constituents
A copy of the plan must be kept on-site and an additional copy
must be submitted to all local emergency service providers
EPA Region 2 221
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Exhibit X-21
Personnel Training
SQGs must ensure that all employees are thoroughly familiar
with proper waste handling and emergency procedures
(262.34(d)(5)(iii).
LQGs must comply with the personnel training requirements
in 265.16 and 262.34(a)(4). This requires initial training and
annual review that teaches proper waste management and
familiarizes them with the procedures, equipment and systems
to effectively respond to emergencies.
EPA Region 2 222
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Exhibit X-22
Hazardous Waste Minimization
LQGs are required to have a program in place to reduce the
volume and toxicity of waste generated to the degree
economically practicable, and must select a currently available
treatment, storage, or disposal method that minimizes present
and future threats
SQGs must make a good faith effort to minimize waste
generation and to select the best available waste management
EPA Region 2 223
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Exhibit X-23
Maintenance and Operation
40 C.F.R. Sections 262.34(a)(4), 264.31 and 265.31 requires
generators and TSDFs to maintain and operate their facilities
to minimize the possibility of a fire, explosion, or any
unplanned sudden or non-sudden release of hazardous waste
or hazardous waste constituents to air, soil, or surface water,
which could threaten human health or the environment.
EPA Region 2 224
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Exhibit X-24
Shipping Waste Off Site
CESQGs must ensure delivery of waste to one of the
following types of facilities:
• Permitted or Interim Status RCRA TSDF
• A facility authorized by the state to handle municipal, or
industrial wastes
• Arecycler
EPA Region 2 225
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Exhibit X-25
Shipping Waste Off Site, continued
SQGs or LQGs must send waste to a RCRA-permitted TSDF
or recycling facility
SQGs and LQGs must ensure that hazardous waste shipments
are properly packaged, labeled, marked, and placarded to
DOT regulations (usually done by transporter)
EPA Region 2 226
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Exhibit X-26
Shipping Waste Off Site, continued
SQGs and LQGs must prepare hazardous waste manifests
correctly, keep all copies for at least 3 years, track signed
TSDF copies, sign a certification of hazardous waste
minimization on the manifest and send copies where required
on form
SQGs and LQGs must ensure that hazardous waste meets the
Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR) requirements and send the
receiving TSDF a completed LDR form
EPA Region 2 227
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Exhibit X-27
Biennial Report
LQGs must submit a Biennial Report to their EPA Regional
office (annual in NY State) by March 1 of every even-
numbered year which includes the:
• EPA ID number, name, and address of the generator, and
every transporter, TSDF and recycler used
• Descriptions and quantities of waste
• Actions taken to reduce the volume and toxicity of the
waste, and the results of those actions
EPA Region 2 228
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Exhibit X-28
Generators Must Calculate Quantity of
Wastes Generated per Month
• First step is to determine which hazardous wastes are
EXCLUDED from the quantity calculation
§261.5(c)
•Now that we know the rules, we must figure out which wastes must be counted in the quantity determination.
•Let's first look at the wastes that are excluded.
EPA Region 2 229
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Exhibit X-29
Wastes Excluded from Quantity
Calculation
• Wastes not subject to regulation under Subtitle C
• Wastes not subject to the substantive requirements of
Subtitle C
§261.5(c)
•Obviously, wastes not regulated under Subtitle C are excluded from being counted.
•The second set of wastes are those that are never subject to the substantive set of Subtitle C regulations but are required to comply with the following
regulations:
- §262.11 Hazardous Waste Determination.
- §262.12 EPA Identification Numbers.
- §262.40 (c) Recordkeeping of Test Results, Waste Analysis, or Other Determinations.
- §262.41 Biennial Report.
•For example, wastewaters managed in treatment systems which are exempted from regulation must still be tested (or determined) to be hazardous waste.
and generators must submit biennial reports regarding these wastes. However, these wastewaters are not included in the quantity determination.
EPA Region 2 230
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Exhibit X-30
Wastes Excluded from the Quantity
Determination
• Hazardous waste when removed from on-site storage if they
were already included in quantity determination
• Universal Wastes
• Hazardous waste produced by on-site treatment of hazardous
waste already included in quantity determination - not
hospital related
• Spent materials generated, reclaimed and subsequently reused
on-site and already included in quantity determination
•These wastes are excluded if they have already been counted - that is, a generator need not "double count" any waste in the quantity determination.
EPA Region 2 231
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Exhibit X-31
Wastes Included in Quantity
Determination
• Hazardous waste subject to regulation under 40 CFR Parts 260-268, 270, and 124
Hospital Example
• Laboratory clean outs
• Spent Bouin's solution
• Spent pharmaceuticals (if not returned to manufacturer)
• Chemotherapy wastes
• Mercury wastes: pharmaceuticals, fluorescent bulbs (if not handled
as universal wastes), GI equipment, temperature and pressure
measurement devices
§261.5(c)
•Obviously, all hazardous waste regulated under Subtitle C is included in a generator's quantity determination.
EPA Region 2 232
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Exhibit X-32
Wastes Included in Quantity
Determination (Cont'd)
• Wastes subject to requirements for recyclable materials
under Sections 261.6(b) or (c)
• Wastes subject to requirements for recyclable materials
regulated under Part 266, Subparts C, F, and H
§261.5(c)
•These materials are regulated, however not under the full set of Subtitle C regulations.
•Because they are still considered hazardous waste, they are included in the total quantity.
•The recyclable materials include:
- Wastes managed by generators and transporters of recyclable materials under §261.6(b).
- Wastes managed by owners/operators of facilities that store or recycle recyclable materials under §261.6(c).
- Part 266 Subpart C recyclable materials used in a manner constituting disposal.
- Part 266 Subpart F recyclable materials utilized for precious metal recovery.
- Part 266 Subpart H hazardous waste burned in boilers and industrial furnaces.
EPA Region 2 233
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Exhibit X-3 3
If all non-acute hazardous wastes
required in the quantity
determination total 100 kg or less
per calendar month, the generator
may be considered a conditionally
exempt Small Quantity Generator
•Obviously, if the sum total between 100 kg and 1000 kg per calendar month, the generator is a small quantity generator.
•Or, if the sum is greater than or equal to 1000 kg per month, the generator is fully regulated.
EPA Region 2
234
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Exhibit X-34
Requirements for CESQGs
NOTE: Your building/clinic may be part of a larger
facility and subject to regulations based on total
hazardous waste generation.
EPA Region 2
235
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Exhibit X-3 5
Mixtures
• CESQG limitations continue even if the CESQG hazardous
waste mixed with solid waste exceeds the quantity
limitation
§261.5(h)
•EPA determined that CESQG's should not be "penalized" if they mix their limited amount of CESQG hazardous waste with other solid waste.
•The rationale is that these small quantities would be mixed with solid wastes anyway when they are managed in municipal or non-hazardous industrial waste
facilities.
EPA Region 2 236
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Exhibit X-3 6
Mixtures (continued)
• There are two exceptions regarding mixtures of CESQG
wastes with solid waste:
- If the mixture exceeds the quantity limitations, and it
exhibits a characteristic, it is subject to full Subtitle C
regulation
- If small quantity generator hazardous waste is mixed
with used oil and the resultant mixture is to be used for
energy recovery, the mixture is subject to Part 266,
Subpart E regulation §261.5(i)
§261.50)
•There are two situations where EPA felt that mixtures of CESQG waste and solid waste should be regulated.
•The first is where the mixture exhibits a hazardous waste characteristic (I,C,R,T). The entire mixture must be managed as regulated hazardous waste -
which makes intuitive sense.
•The second is where the waste is mixed with used oil, and then used for energy recovery. Used oil contaminated with even small amounts of hazardous
waste, poses certain environmental risks when burned, therefore, the Agency felt these mixtures should be regulated in the same manner as other used
oil - if the oil was to be burned for energy recovery.
EPA Region 2 237
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Exhibit X-3 7
Typical Hospital Hazardous Waste
Mercury and mercury-containing items
Includes whole items and spill residues
Photographic/X-Ray fixer solutions
Silver recovered from fixer, if not recycled
X-Ray Film containing silver or other metals
Ethanol and formaldehyde/ethanol solutions
Spent, off-spec, or excess laboratory chemicals
(solvents, acids, bases, etc.)
Chemotherapy drugs
EPA Region 2
238
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Exhibit X-3 8
Typical Hospital Hazardous Waste
(continued)
• Waste, excess, and off-spec paints and cleaning
products
• Fluorescent light bulbs, if not managed as
Universal Wastes
• Other types include high-intensity discharge
(HID), neon, mercury vapor, high pressure
sodium, and metal halide lamps
• Batteries, if not managed as Universal Wastes
EPA Region 2 239
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Exhibit X-3 9
Typical Hospital Hazardous Waste
(continued)
• Computers/monitors, circuit boards, and other
lead-bearing electronics
• Lead aprons and shielding
• Includes all cathode ray tube (CRT) screens
• Compressed gases (generally, any that are
ignitable)
• Waste pesticides, fungicides, etc.
EPA Region 2 240
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Exhibit X-40
Relevant Federal Regulations
40 CFR Section 261.5
40 CFR Section 262.34(d),(e),(f)
EPA Region 2 241
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Exhibit X-41
Other Guidance
Guidance Material on Generator Status
EPA Region 2 242
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PC
Faxback 12894
9441.1987(32)
RCRA/Superfund/OUST Hotline Monthly Report Question
April 1987
3. Multiple Generator Location and Consolidation
A company owns several small factories in different
counties. Each factory generates less than 100 kilograms
of hazardous waste per month, and is subject to reduced
regulation under D261.5. Options for disposal of waste
from conditionally exempt generators are provided in
D261.5(f)(3). (a) May the conditionally exempt generators
transport waste to one of the company's facilities for
consolidation and subsequent shipment to a RCRA disposal
facility? (b) Does the facility of the generator who is
consolidating the waste qualify as a "transfer facility"?
(c) Does the generator who consolidates the waste become
a full quantity generator if he ships more than 1000 kg
of hazardous waste from his site per month? (or a •
100-1000 kg/mo generator if he ships between 100 and 1000
kg of waste per month?)
i
(a) Under D261.5(f)(3) in order to remain exempt from certain
regulations, a conditionally exempt small quantity generator may
ensure delivery of his hazardous waste to a storage, treatment, or
disposal facility that is one the following types of facilities:
(i.) permitted under Part 270 of 40 CFR; or
(ii.) in interim status under Parts 265 and 270 of 40
CFR; or
(iii.) authorized to manage hazardous waste by a state
with a hazardous waste management program approved under
Part 271 of 40 CFR; or
(iv.) licensed, registered or permitted by the state to
manage municipal or industrial solid waste; or
(v.) beneficially uses, reuses or reclaims the waste.
In order for one of the generators to serve as a central collection
point for the other generators, he would have to qualify as one of
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Page
the above mentioned facilities. Realistically, the easiest approach
would be for the generator to receive State approval to manage the
consolidated waste shipments.
(b) If the generator does not receive authorization from his
State, he may still receive and store the waste for a
period of time if he qualifies as a transfer facility.
Under D263.12, waste may be stored at a transfer facility
for ten days or less without requiring interim status or
a permit. The December 31, 1980 Federal Register (45 FR
86966) defines the term transfer facility to refer to
transportation terminals (including vehicle parking
areas, loading docks and other similar areas), breakbulk
facilities or any other facility commonly used by
transporters to temporarily hold shipments of hazardous
waste during transportation. It is possible that this
generator facility may qualify as a transfer facility, as
long as the waste is not stored on-site for more than 10
days.
(c) If the waste is not sent to a facility specified under
D261.5(9)(3)(1)-(V), it is no longer conditionally exempt
waste, and each generator must comply with applicable
regulations. Thus, if the generator cannot receive state
approval nor qualify as a transfer facility, he must
obtain a permit for storage of hazardous waste.
D
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FAXBACK 12018
LIABILITY OF A SERVICING COMPANY AS A GENERATOR OF HAZARDOUS
PPC 9451.1980(01)
December 2, 1980
Michael Ridge
Manager, Environmental Health
Carrier Corporation
Carrier Tower
P.O. Box 4000
Syracuse, New York 13221
Dear Mr. Ridge:
This is in response to your letter of August 19, 1980, to
Ms. Eileen Claussen requesting clarification of our RCRA
hazardous waste management regulations as they pertain to
hazardous waste generated in the field servicing of air
conditioning equipment.
Your letter indicates that in servicing air conditioning
equipment owned by your customers, your servicemen may remove
waste oil, spent refrigerant and other materials from such
equipment and, because these materials are to be discarded, they
are solid wastes and may be hazardous wastes. You basically ask
whether your company is a generator of hazardous waste (or
whether the owner of the equipment being serviced is the
generator) and what are your company's responsibilities, if any,
are in managing such hazardous waste.
We interpret our regulations such that, when hazardous
wastes are generated in the servicing of equipment (air
conditioning or other types of equipment), both the owner of the
equipment being serviced and the person (company performing the
servicing are generators and are jointly and severally liable for
performing the generator's responsibilities of Part 262 of our
regulations. We hasten to point out, however, that we will allow
and, in fact, prefer one of these parties to perform the
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generator duties/And, where one party, in fact, does perform
those duties, we will look to that party as the generator and
normally will not bother the other party. However, we feel that,
from an enforcement position, we must hold both parties jointly
and severally responsible. A discussion of this can be found in
the preamble to a recent amendment we promulgated in 45 Federal
Register 72026-72027, a copy of which is Enclosed.
I hope I have helped clarify our regulations for you. If
you would have additional questions, please do not hesitate to
write, call or come see me. I apologize for the tardiness of
this response but we simply have been overwhelmed with requests
for clarification of our regulations.
Sincerely yours,
Gary H. Dietrich
Associate Deputy Assistant Administrator
for Solid Waste
Enclosure
bcc: Filomena Chau w/incoming
Jack Lehman w/incoming
Regional A&HM Division Directors, Regions I, III-X
w/incoming
Water Division Region II w/incoming
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QUESTION: A private laboratory generates a variety of hazardous wastes. The la
has about 200 lab technicians who may handle the wastes. Must these lab
technicians be trained to handle hazardous waster, and, if so, must there be
documentation of their training?
ANSWER: The lab technicians must have training to the extent necessary to ensi
safe handling of the wastes. Per §262.34 (a) (4), the generator must comply witt
§265.16 on training of personnel handling hazardous waste. Section 265.16 (d)
requires that training records be kept at the facility. The generator could categor
positions (i.e., supervisors, lab technicians, etc.) and list the individuals names ir
those categories with a description of the training for that group.
SOURCE: Tony Baney (202) 475-8728
RESEARCH: Denise Wright
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QUESTION: If a small quantity generator (SQG) periodically becomes subject to
the 262.34 generator regulations, e.g., only once every five years, must his
personnel training be updated annually per 265.16 (c)?
ANSWER: No; the SQG need only comply with the 265.16 (c) requirements when he
is subject to all of 262.34 which, in this case, is once every five years.
Hence, personnel training would be updated every five years.
FAXBACK 12245
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Page 1 o
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
JANUARY 10,. 1984
Robert R, Staab
Chairman
Baltimore County Delegation
House of Delegates .
2 North Dundalk Avenue
Dundalk, Maryland 21222
Dear Delegate Staab:
Mr. Don Clay referred your November 23, 1983, letter regarding Federal regulatic
on labeling hazardous wastes to my office.
Under Section 262 of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) hazardous wa
management regulations, a generator is required to place certain information on
each container of 110 gallons or less used in transportation. EPA's regulations
further require that this information be displayed in accordance with the
Department of Transportation's (DOT) requirements of 49 CFR 172.304 which
specify that the marking must be durable.
A member of my staff has called DOT regarding your concerns and was advised
that under normal handling conditions, a typed label would be considered durable
DOT cautioned, however, that if the typing were applied to a vinyl label, the typir
would most likely smear and would not, therefore, be considered durable. The
labels used at the firm where your constituent worked, were probably vinyl.'
Unfortunately, while most manufacturers of vinyl labels do not inform consumers
problems resulting from typing, they do recommend the use of a special non-srm
pen to mark the required information.
If you would like to discuss this issue in greater detail, I would suggest that you
contact Mr. Alan I. Roberts, Associate Director for Hazardous Materials Regulatior
Department of Transportation, 8100 Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW,
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Faxback 11005
9451.1980(02)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
NOV. 18 1980
Juiie R. Cooper
Attorney
Mobay Chemical Corporation
Penn Lincoln Parkway West
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania 15205
Dear Ms. Cooper
This is in response to your letter of November 5, 1980, to
Ms. Filomena Chau requesting an interpretation of our hazardous
waste management regulation.
You indicated that your company hires many independent contractors
and they, in turn, often hire subcontractors to perform various
services including painting, janitorial services, boiler cleaning
and construction. You indicate that these contractors and
subcontractors generate wastes and that some of these wastes may
be hazardous wastes. You state that you normally require your
contractors to remove their wastes from your premises and you indicate
that they may or may not require waste removal by their subcontractors.
Finally, you say that you would like to continue the practice of
having contractors remove their waste but would like to have the
option of assuming this responsibility.
By implication, you are asking who is the generator of hazardous
waste, your company or your contractors (or his subcontractor) EPA
contends that both parties or, as the case may be, all three parties
are generators and are jointly and severally liable for complying
with the generator standards in Part 262 of our regulations (see 45
Fed. Reg. 331410-33148). We do not object to and, in fact, prefer
that only one of these parties, by mutual agreement (e.g., a contract)
perform these responsibilities in fact. We will reserve the right,
however, to hold both or all three parties liable for these
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rage
responsibilities in any enforcement actions we might take as a result
of a violation of the regulations. This interpretation parallels
the interpretation we have taken and discussed in the preamble to a
recent amendment to our regulations (see 45 Fed. Reg. 7202672027,
October 30, 1980).
-2-
Consequently, either your company, your contractor or his
subcontractor can assume responsibility for removing hazardous
wastes generated on your premises and further assume the responsibility
for complying with Part 262 of our regulation, as your company
prefers. But your company, in any case, will have liability for
proper performance of these responsibilities.
We will plan to issue this interpretation in a Regulatory
Interpretation Memorandum in the near future. Pending such issuance,
you can consider this letter to be an official interpretation on
this matter.
Sincerely yours
Gary N. Dietrich
Associate Deputy Assistant Administrator
for Solid Waste
bcc: Filomena Chau w/incoming
Mike Barclay w/incoming
Regional A&HM Division Directors w/incoming
Mobay Chemical Corporation
November 5, 1980
Ms. Filomena Chau
Office of Solid Waste (WH 562)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460
November 4, 1994
The Honorable Tim Johnson ;
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Johnson:
Thank you for your letter of October 24, 1994 to Administrator Browner
encouraging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to adopt changes to
current RCRA regulations regarding university laboratories. Specifically, you urge
EPA to exempt universities from regulations which require that hazardous waste
generators obtain EPA identification numbers for each site at which hazardous
waste is generated.
The regulations at 40 CFR 262.12 require generators who "treat, store, dispose c
transport, or offer for transportation hazardous waste..1.' to have an EPA
Identification number. Many colleges and universities have asked for clarification
the issue of hazardous waste generator identification numbers because the physi
layouts of campuses can confuse the issue of how many identification numbers a
needed.
In 40 CFR 260.10, EPA defines "Individual Generation Site" as:
...the contiguous site at or on which one or more hazardous wastes are
generated. An individual generation site, such as a large manufacturing plan
may have one or more source of hazardous waste but is considered a single i
individual generation site if the site or property is contiguous.
Many universities are divided by public roads or other rightof-ways that they do
not control. If the entry and exit between two parts of a campus are directly acre
from each other, or across the junction of two crossroads, they are considered
geographically contiguous. However, if a person must travel along a public road I
go from one part of a campus to another, the sites are considered noncontagious
-------
A metropolitan campus may be constructed on a number of city blocks, creating <
situation where campus buildings are separated by city streets and it is necessan
to travel along public streets to go from one part of the campus to another, .t1-
these cases, each generation site (e.g., each city block or each part of campt ,
must be assigned its own EPA identification number and hazardous wastes
transported from one site to another must be accompanied by a manifest. This
includes hazardous waste transported from one campus building to another build
where the buildings are divided by a public street. This requirement was establish
to ensure that hazardous wastes transported along public highways are properly
described on a manifest so that they can be identified in the case of an emergenc
In your example of South Dakota University, two streets run through the univers
and waste from various parts of the campus are consolidated in one area. Becaus
of the varying configurations of colleges and universities, it is difficult to determir
from your description whether waste would need to be transported along public
right-of-ways to reach a consolidation point in another section of the campus. If 1
campus is divided by a road and waste does not need to travel along the road to
reach another portion of its campus, it may be considered an individual generatic
site.
Please be aware that states with authorized programs may impose more stringen
requirements. Generally, when questions are based on site-specific factors, the
determination is best made by the State or EPA Region implementing the RCRA
program for a particular state.
We are aware that universities are interested in developing alternative ways c*
tracking waste shipments that would also ensure the waste is safely managec. ^r
are certainly willing to consider proposals that would be most cost efficient while
still protective. This type of new tracking system would require changes to our
regulations, and of course we would have to consider such changes in light of oui
competing priorities.. If resources permit, the Agency will continue to analyze thi:
issue to see if a change in the regulations for non-contiguous sites is warranted.
We hope this information satisfies your concerns.
Sincerely youi
Michael Shapiro, Direct
Office of Solid Was
-------
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Region 1
1 CONGRESS STREET, SUITE 1100
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02114-2023
March 27, 2000
Mr. Thomas P. Balf
Nexus Environmental Partners
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111
Dear Mr. Balf:
This letter is a reply to your February 4, 2000 and March 1, 2000 e-mails to Lisa Papetti of EP
New England's Office of Environmental Stewardship requesting interpretations of Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations. Your questions specifically relate to the
generation and transportation of hazardous waste at a campus location:
Question One
A university that is a large quantity generator (LQG) of hazardous waste has a remote location
that is a very small quantity generator (VSQG) of hazardous waste. Can the university send
RCRA and DOT trained university personnel to the remote facility and transport hazardous waste
back to the main accumulation area/LQG?
The federal regulations allow shipments of hazardous waste to entities "authorized to manage
hazardous waste" by authorized states. See 40 C.F.R § 261.5(f)(3)(iii) and (g)93)(iii).
The State of Vermont is authorized by EPA to implement regulations found at Vermont
Regulation Section 7-306(c)(2XD). This regulation allows a conditionally exempt small quantity
generator to ensure delivery of waste to another site in Vermont owned and operated by the same
owner as the conditionally exempt small quantity generator that meets the small quantity or large
quantity generator standards. Vermont's authorized regulations also allow a conditionally
exempt small quantity generator to transport his or her own waste without a permit as long as the
generator complies with Section 7-306(c)(3).
EPA is currently working with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MA
DEP) and New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) to authorize
similar regulations in those states.
Toll Free -1-888-372-7341
Internet Ad dress (URL) http://www.epa.gov
Recycle/Recyclable Printed w ith Vege table Oil B ased Ink s on Re cycled Pa per (Minim urn 25 % Po stconsu mer)
-------
Mr. Thomas P. Balf
Page 2
March 27, 2000
Question Two
A private entity is conducting activities in a research building located on property that is
contiguous with that of a university/LQG and under the same EPA identification number. Can
the university send RCRA and DOT trained university staff to the private entity and transport
hazardous waste back to the main accumulation area/LQG? Are there different requirements if
the building is a non-university building? Are there different requirements if reimbursement is
provided for services?
Transportation of hazardous waste throughout a contiguous property is not required to be
accompanied by a manifest and 40 C.F.R § 263 transporter requirements do not apply. The
person who identifies themselves as the generator of the waste by use of an EPA identification
number also takes responsibility for management of hazardous waste from the time it is
generated on-site until it reaches its final destination. This responsibility includes any measures
taken to address releases, emergency coordinator duties and training. If a state has issued one
EPA identification number to the university and the private entity as a whole, the generator (in
this case, the university) remains fully responsible regardless of any business or other agreement
made by an entity located on the generator's property.
EPA allows states flexibility in issuance of EPA identification numbers, and some states issue
separate numbers to distinct entities at one location. You may want to check with the New
England states to clarify the issuance of EPA identification numbers in this scenario. Generators
with separate identification numbers are individually responsible for their waste.
If you have any further questions, please contact Lisa Papetti of EP New England's Office of
Environmental Stewardship at (617) 918-1756.
Sincerely,
Kevin McSweeney
Associate Director of Waste Policy
cc: K. Rota, EPA-OES D. Sattler, CT DEP
L. Papetti, EPA-OES L. Hellested, RI DEM
G. Gosbee, EPA-OEP S. Ladner, ME DEP
M. Hoagland, EPA-OSRR P. Marshall, VT DEC
J. Fowley, EPA-ORC
J. Miller, MA DEP
J. Duclos,NHDES
-------
fc. UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
,- Region 1
~1 1 CONGRESS STREET, SUITE 1100
PRO^C
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02114-2023
March 27, 2000
Mr. Thomas P. Half
Nexus Environmental Partners
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111
Dear Mr. Balf:
This letter is a reply to your February 4, 2000 and March 1, 2000 e-mails to Lisa Papetti of EP
New England's Office of Environmental Stewardship requesting interpretations of Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations. Your questions specifically relate to the
generation and transportation of hazardous waste at a campus location:
Question One
A university that is a large quantity generator (LQG) of hazardous waste has a remote location
that is a very small quantity generator (VSQG) of hazardous waste. Can the university send
RCRA and DOT trained university personnel to the remote facility and transport hazardous waste
back to the main accumulation area/LQG?
The federal regulations allow shipments of hazardous waste to entities "authorized to manage
hazardous waste" by authorized states. See 40 C.F.R § 261.5(f)(3)(iii) and (g)93)(iii).
The State of Vermont is authorized by EPA to implement regulations found at Vermont
Regulation Section 7-306(c)(2XD). This regulation allows a conditionally exempt small quantity
generator to ensure delivery of waste to another site in Vermont owned and operated by the same
owner as the conditionally exempt small quantity generator that meets the small quantity or large
quantity generator standards. Vermont's authorized regulations also allow a conditionally
exempt small quantity generator to transport his or her own waste without a permit as long as the
generator complies with Section 7-306(c)(3).
EPA is currently working with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MA
DEP) and New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DBS) to authorize
similar regulations in those states.
Toll Free -1-888-372-7341
Internet Ad dress (U RL) http^www.epa-gotf
Recycle/Recyclable Printed w ith Vege table Oil B ased Ink s on Re cycled Pa per (Minim urn 25 % Po stconsu mer)
-------
Mr. Thomas P. Balf
Page 2
March 27, 2000
Question Two
A private entity is conducting activities in a research building located on property that is
contiguous with that of a university/LQG and under the same EPA identification number. Can
the university send RCRA and DOT trained university staff to the private entity and transport
hazardous waste back to the main accumulation area/LQG? Are there different requirements if
the building is a non-university building? Are there different requirements if reimbursement is
provided for services?
Transportation of hazardous waste throughout a contiguous property is not required to be
accompanied by a manifest and 40 C.F.R § 263 transporter requirements do not apply. The
person who identifies themselves as the generator of the waste by use of an EPA identification
number also takes responsibility for management of hazardous waste from the time it is
generated on-site until it reaches its final destination. This responsibility includes any measures
taken to address releases, emergency coordinator duties and training. If a state has issued one
EPA identification number to the university and the private entity as a whole, the generator (in
this case, the university) remains fully responsible regardless of any business or other agreement
made by an entity located on the generator's property.
EPA allows states flexibility in issuance of EPA identification numbers, and some states issue
separate numbers to distinct entities at one location. You may want to check with the New
England states to clarify the issuance of EPA identification numbers in this scenario. Generators
with separate identification numbers are individually responsible for their waste.
If you have any further questions, please contact Lisa Papetti of EP New England's Office of
Environmental Stewardship at (617) 918-1756.
Sincerely,
Kevin McSweeney
Associate Director of Waste Policy
cc: K. Rota, EPA-OES D. Sattler, CT DEP
L. Papetti, EPA-OES L. Hellested, RJ DEM
G. Gosbee, EPA-OEP S. Ladner, ME DEP
M. Hoagland, EPA-OSRR P. Marshall, VT DEC
J. Fowley, EPA-ORC
J. Miller, MA DEP
J. Duclos, NHDES
-------
9441.1989(26)
USEZ.
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20460
5 1989
- - ,~~ . .,
Cynthia V. Bailey
Executive Director
Department of Waste Management
James Monroe Building, Eleventh Floor
101 North Fourteenth Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Dear Ms. Bailey:
This letter responds to your March 13, 1989, correspondence
regarding the current regulatory status of hazardous waste
residues removed from "empty containers." In your letter, you
cited the August 18, 1982 Federal Register notice that
discussed this issue but indicated EPA's need to study the
matter further.
The Agency has not yet amended 40 CFR 261.7 to include
regulatory language addressing residues removed from empty
containers. The Agency does not plan to promulgate such
amendments at this time, pending the acquisition of additional
data. Unfortunately, our further study of the issue has been
deferred because of other priorities.
Section 261.7 provides that residues remaining in an "empty"
container are exempt from regulation under Subtitle C as a
hazardous waste. As you are aware, the Agency has interpreted
40 CFR 261.7 to also exempt residues removed from "empty"
containers from hazardous waste regulations (see 45 FR 78524,
November 25, 1980 and 47 FR 36092, August 18, 1982). Residues
removed from "empty" containers are subject to full regulation
under Subtitle C, however, if the removal or subsequent
management of the residues generates a new hazardous waste that
exhibits any of the characteristics identified in Part 261,
Subpart C (for example, by incineration of both a container and
its contents) .
As an authorized State, the implementation of certain RCRA
hazardous waste regulations has been delegated to the
Commonwealth of Virginia. Pursuant to 40 CFR 271.1(1), Virginia
may enforce requirements that are more stringent, more
extensive, or greater in scope than those required under
Subtitl* C of RCRA. You are certainly within your authority to
interpret the authorized State equivalent to section 261.7 more
stringently.
-------
- 2 -
EPA appreciates your concern regarding this issue. Although
there are.no definite plans to address this issue in the near
future, the Agency continually reviews its regulations to
identify changes necessary to ensure protection of human health
and the environment. I would encourage you to submit any data
or information on this issue to Bob Dellinger, of the Waste
Characterization Branch, Office of Solid Waste. Also, if you
should have any additional questions or comments on this issue,
please contact me or have your staff contact Mitch Kidwell, of
my staff, at (202) 382-4805.
Sincerely,
Sylvia K. Lowrance
Director
Office of Solid Waste
-------
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. O.C 20460
IM 5 «oe ANO Msouncis
•KEMORXHDOH
SUBJECT: Han*qamenfe/bf Tfist/SaAs^es as Hazardous Waste
FROM: Howard JKilson, HaHager
Environmental Compliance Program
TO: Environmental Compliance Managers
This memo is intended to clarify a letter from the EPA's
Office of Solid Waste on the management of laboratory samples under
the Resource Conservation Recovery Act (40 CFR Part. 261).
According to 40 CFR Part 261.4 (d)(1), samples collected
solely for the purposes of testing are exempted from the
regulations for .hazardous waste management. I would like to
emphasize that this is a qualified exemption. The samples are
exempt from regulation as long as they meet any of the following
conditions contained in 261.4 (d) (1) (i. .vi):
(i) Being transported from the collector1- to the
laboratory *"
(ii) Being transported from the laboratory back to the
collector following test-ing
(iii) Being stored at the collector waiting to go to the
laboratory
(iv) Being stored at the laboratory before being tested
(v) Being stored at the laboratory after being tested
but before being returned* to the collector
(vi) Being stored at the laboratory for a specific
purpose after being tested (i.e. for a court case
in which the sample is evidence, etc.)
Regulation 261.4 (d) (3) states that the exemption do-»fl not anolv
if the laboratory determines the waste is hazardous and the
conditions listed above are no longer being met.
According to 40 CFR Part 261.5 (a), facilities that generate
less than 100 kg/mo of hazardous waste or 1 kg/mo of acute
hazardous waste are exempt from hazardous waste regulations. This
exemption is also conditional, based on a generator's compliance
with the following:
-------
Determining if their waste is hazardous ; this is
required by 261.5 (b) , which references 261.5 (g) , which
cites 262. IX.
Disposing of their waste- at a facility .authorized to
accept it; this is required by 261.5 (f) (3) and 261.5
O) .
Generators of less than 100 log/mo of hazardous vasts would also be
subject to RC8JL requirements under regulation 262.34 if they
accumulate, for the purpose of disposal, greater than 1000 kg of
hazardous waste.
In s
hazardous
samples held for testing need ;
while they are being tested.
-------
9441.1989(2C
2?
Mr. Gene Rideout
Systems Manager
Dangerous Goods Consultants
P.O. Box C.P. 283
Roxboro, Quebec H8Y 3E9
Dear Mr. Rideout:
This response addresses your letters dated August 30, 1988,
February 7, 1989, and March 15, 1989, regarding the lab sample
exclusion found in 40 CFR Section 261.4(d). It is our
understanding that you wish to transport via private or company
vehicle samples of hazardous waste from Canada into the United
States for analysis. You question whether the samples that you
are shipping must be managed as hazardous waste in the United
States. You would also like to know if it is acceptable to use
a personal or company automobile to transport the sample
material in the United States.
Based upon the information that you have provided, it
appears that the samples are being handled and shipped in a
manner that is outlined in the lab sample exclusion (40 CFR
261.4(d)). Therefore, these samples are exempt from the federal
hazardous waste regulations including the hazardous waste import
requirements as outlined in 40 CFR 262, Subpart E and 40 CFR
264.12. In addition, as long as each shipment is in compliance
with the lab sample exclusion, including the documentation and
packaging requirements of 261. 4(d)(2)(ii), as well as U.S.
Department of Transportation regulations, that may apply, and
any other applicable regulations, the mode of transportation
used is at your discretion.
Please be aware that the applicability of the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act in a particular State may be
different; therefore, you should contact any RCRA authorized
State through which you may travel.
<)
BATK )
mi^mmmmf^^
rr «.
•••••^••MBB
mm*^^****^—
-------
- 2 -
If you have any further questions or need additional
information, please contact Emily Roth of my staff at
(202) 382-4777.
Sincerely,
Matthew Straus, Deputy Director
Characterization and
Assessment Division
I!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !! !!!!!!!!!!!!
OSW-332-ED-RSCC-8801-LM-4/12/89-RIDEOUT
LM-4/14/89 RIDEOUT
LM-4/24/89 RIDEOUT
-------
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
I WASHINGTON. D.C. 20460
V .-/
SCUO WAS'E AND EMJPG£NCV aE3"G
MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT: Regulation and Permitting of Laboratories
FROM: Sylvia K. Lowrance, Director
Office of Solid Waste
TO: Waste Management Division Directors
Regions I-X
On July 19, 1988, EPA promulgated an exemption for samples used
in treatability studies (53 FR 27290). To help increase awareness
of the new exemption, and to clarify the regulatory and permitting
requirements for laboratories in general, we have prepared the
attached decision tree and a summary of the treatability sample
rule. This is intended to help lab managers and enforcement
personnel understand the regulations. Questions in this area may
be addressed to Stephen Cpchran at FTS-475-9715.
Attachments
-------
c»i
DETAILED FACT SHEET
SMALL-SCALE TREATABILITY STUDIES SAMPLE EXEMPTION
Status: Final Rule, effective July 19, 1988 (53 FR 27290)
OSW Contact: Paul Mushovic
1. Effect of the Rule
The final rule conditionally exempts small quantities of
hazardous waste being utilized in small-scale treatability
studies from the RCRA hazardous waste regulations. Such testing
requires no prior EPA approval. Quantity limitations for
treatability studies are set per waste stream per treatment
process. Limitations are also being set for quantities shipped,
and for treatment rates and storage limitations per facility.
New paragraphs (e) and (f) to 40 CFR 261.4 accomplish the
following. First, persons who generate samples are exempted from
the generator and transporter requirements when samples are
shipped by the generator, or any other person who collects the
sample (the "sample collector"), to a laboratory or testing
facility for the purpose of conducting a treatability analysis,
or when shipped from the facility back to the sample collector,
provided that certain packaging and labeling requirements are
met. Second, any laboratory or testing facility that conducts
treatability studies may store these waste samples and residues
generated from the treatability study within the quantity and
time limits specified and not be subject to the requirements of
40 CFR, Parts 264, 265, and 270. Third, the actual testing of
the samples does not require a permit, provided the laboratory or
testing facility complies with the notification requirements in
the rule and meets the quantity and time limitations specified in
the rule.
Definition and Examples. A treatability study (newly-defined)
subjects a relatively small amount of hazardous waste to a
treatment process. Its purpose is to determine:
- whether the waste is amenable to a treatment process;
- what pretreatment (if any) is required;
- the optimal process conditions;
- the efficiency of the treatment process; or,
- the characteristics and volume of residuals from a
particular treatment process.
A treatability study is not to be used for commercial
treatment or disposal of hazardous waste. Examples of the types
of treatability studies included in the exemption are:
- physical/chemical/biological treatment;
- thermal treatment (incineration, pyrolysis, oxidation,
combustion);
solidification;
- sludge dewatering;
volume reduction;
toxicity reduction; and,
recycling feasibility.
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-2-
The rule also allows the following types of waste testing
studies:
- liner compatibility studies;
- corrosion studies;
- toxicological and health effects studies; and,
- other material compatibility studies (e.g., relatina to
leachate collection systems, geotextile materials, other land
disposal unit requirements, pumps and personal protective
equipment).
2. Purpose and Rationale of the Rule
A. Need for Simplified Procedures. The hazardous waste
regulations, when applied to waste samples used in small-scale
treatability studies, are more comprehensive than is necessary to
adequately protect human health and the environment. The Agency
needs to promote research and the development of innovative
technologies to manage hazardous wastes.
B. Factors Limiting Risk. The Agency believes that the
following factors combine to ensure that the risks to human
health and the environment are de minimis;
- the various quantity and time restrictions contained in the
rule; -
- the high cost of collecting and shipping the sample and
conducting legitimate treatability studies;
- certain reporting and recordkeeping requirements that will
enable the Agency to conduct inspections and bring enforcement
actions against persons who abuse this exemption; and,
- Department of Transportation (DOT), U.S. Postal Service
v(USPS), or other regulations governing the transportation of
hazardous materials.
The Agency also believes that sufficient professional and
financial incentives are in place to provide for the safe
shipment of samples to and from, and proper handling of samples
at, laboratories and testing facilities conducting treatability
studies.
3. Limitations Contained in the Rule
Specific limitations in the final rule ensure de minimis risk
to human health and the environment.
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-3-
A. Waste Quantity Exempted per waste stream. There are
limits on the amount of waste that can be subject to a
treatability study evaluation per generated waste stream. The
rule exempts (per waste stream per treatment process):
- 1000 kg of non-acute hazardous waste; or,
.- 1 kg of acute hazardous waste; or,
- 250 kg of soils, water, or debris contaminated by acute
hazardous waste.
The rule also allows the Regional Administrator to grant
requests for waste stream quantity limits in excess of those
specified above, up to an additional 500 kg of non-acute
hazardous waste, 1 kg of acute hazardous waste, and 250 kg of
soils, water, and debris contaminated with acute hazardous waste
when it can be demonstrated that an additional quantity of
hazardous waste is needed to complete a treatability study when:
- there has been an equipment or mechanical failure;
- there is a need to verify previous results;
- there is a need to study and analyze alternative techniques
within a previously evaluated treatment process; or,
- there is a need to determine final specifications for
treatment.
3. Transportation Shipment Limits. The Agency has set a
single shipment limitation as follows:
- 1000 kg of non-acute hazardous waste; or,
- 1 kg of acute hazardous waste; or,
- 250"kg of soils, water, or debris contaminated with acute
hazardous waste.
These shipment limitations, covering the exemption from the
RCRA hazardous waste transporter regulations and manifesting
requirements, will apply when the materials are being shipped to
a laboratory or testing facility or returned to the generator or
sample collector.
C. Facility Treatment Rate Limit. The Agency has adopted a
treatment rate limit of 250 kg per day of as received waste for
the entire laboratory or testing facility. "As received" refers
to the waste shipped by the generator or sample collector as it
arrives at the laboratory or testing facility.
D. Facility storage Quantity Limits. The Agency has also
adopted an overall storage limitation of 1000 kg of "as received
waste per testing facility. This limitation can include up to
500 kg of soils, water, or debris contaminated with acute
hazardous waste or 1 kg of acute hazardous waste. The Agency is
making it clear in this rule that the storage exemption only
applies to laboratories or testing facilities conducting
-------
-4-
treatability studies. The rule does not allow for intermediate
storage.
E. Facility Storage Time Limits. Any untreated sample and
any residue generated during the treatability study must be
returned to the generator within 90 days of study completion or
within 1 year from the date of shipment by the generator to the
laboratory or testing facility, whichever is earlier. Otherwise,
these materials must be managed, by the laboratory or testina
facility conducting the treatability study, as a RCRA hazardous
waste (unless the waste is no longer hazardous).
MTUs conducting treatability studies may qualify for this
exemption. The requirements of the exemption apply to each
location where an MTU will conduct treatability studies.
When more than one MTU is operating at one location they will be
treated as one MTU facility for purposes of applying the
limitations.
4. Procedures for Compliance with the Rule
Facilities conducting small-scale treatability studies would
not be required to obtain the permit; and the shipment of samples
to and from facilities would no longer need to be manifested.
There are still certain procedures required to qualify for the
exemption.
A. General Reporting and Recordkeepinq Requirements.
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements are being imposed to
facilitate inspector review, and if necessary, to take
enforcement action. The generator of the sample (who may also be
the shipper or sample collector) and the laboratory or testing
facility conducting the treatability study must keep copies of
contracts and shipping documents for a minimum of 3 years after
the completion of the study.
B. Generator-Specific Requirements. Generators and sample
collectors must also maintain records indicating the following:
- the amount of waste (per waste stream and treatment
process) shipped under the exemption;
- the name, address, and EPA identification number of the
study facility;
* shipment dates; and,
-whether or not any unused sample or any residue generated
from the treatability study was returned.
Beginning in 1989, generators must report this information in
their biennial reports. In addition, generators and/or sample
collectors who seek a variance to submit supplemental sample
material from a particular waste stream must indicate the reason
-------
-5-
for the request, support the additional quantity requested,
account for all sample material previously submitted from the
waste stream, and describe any technical or equipment
modifications and the corrected results.
C. Facility-Specific Requirements. Owners or operators of a
study facility must:
- notify the Regional Administrator or authorized State, by
letter, of the intent to conduct treatability studies at least 45
days prior to conducting any such studies;
- obtain an EPA identification number if it does not have
one;
- maintain records documenting compliance with the specified
time and quantity limits for treatment and storage for 3 years
from the completion of each treatability study.
Specific minimum information, by treatability study, that
must be maintained includes:
- the name, address, and EPA identification number of the
generator or sample collector;
- information on the quantities of and dates that waste
materials were received, stored, and tested; and,
- the date the unused sample and residue were returned to the
generator or, if sent to a designated facility, the name of the
facility and its EPA identification number.
By March 15 of each year, each facility must submit a
comprehensive report to the authorized State or Regional
Administrator that includes the above information for all studies
of the previous calendar year and an estimate of the number of
studies and the amount of waste expected to be used in
treatability studies during the current year.
Additionally, laboratories or testing facilities that do not
return the unused sample or the residues to the generator or
sample collector vithin the specified time limits are subject to
appropriate regulation. Facilities must determine if they meet
the SQG requirements of Subject 261.5 or the accumulation
requirements of Subject 262.34.
5. impact of the Rule
This exemption will reduce the overall costs and economic
impact of EPA's hazardous waste management regulations by
eliminating permitting requirements for laboratories and testing
facilities intending to conduct treatability studies. Facilities
and laboratories will be spared the time (as much as 2 years) and
the costs (estimated to be between $100,000 and $200,000)
otherwise necessary to obtain a RCRA permit. The Agency
-------
-6-
anticipates that most of the estimated 400 facilities which will
be conducting treatability studies will include testing
laboratories, research organizations, colleges, universities,
technical institutes, and those facilities involved in solid and
hazardous waste management.
6. Effective Date of the Rule
The need for more effective hazardous waste treatment
alternatives and the fact that this amendment reduces, rather
than increases, the existing requirements for facilities that
handle waste samples provide good cause to make this rule
effective immediately upon publication notwithstanding Section
4(d) of the Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. Section
553(d). This amendment takes effect immediately upon publication
in the Federal Register. The regulations will be applicable only
in those States that do not have final authorization. Because
these changes are less stringent or reduce the scope of the
Federal program, States are not required to adopt this
rulemaking, although EPA strongly encourages States to do so as
quickly as possible. EPA will expedite review of authorized
State program revision applications.
7. Agency Contact
For- further information regarding the Treatability
Studies-Sample Exemption, contact Stephen Cochran at EPA
Headquarters telephone No. 202-475-9715 or FTS No. 475-9715.
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— -r\
uetefsnine*
of
STEP 2.
Determine if
material la a waste
STEP 4,
Determine If salM
wraata ta a hazardous
waste
STEP 4.
Treatablilty atudy
exemption
STEP «,
Determine If exempt
reeyotfatg eeeors
STEP «.
Determine If special
recycling occur*
STEP 7,
Determine If other
eooara
Office of Solid Waste
Laboratory Decision Tree
Type of Testing
f26t.4(d) govern*
l***ofidw«*»
per 5261.2?
RCRA Subtitle C .
regulawns do not apply
YES
itted in
5§261.31-03 or doe* it exhibtt
« eharaoanatic of a hazardous
wacte (§§261.20-24)?
RCRA Subtrte C .
regulaaons do not apply
YES
If the activity something
other than a naabity
study (defined in §260.10}?
NO
§261.4<«)«nd(f)
(treatabirty •zempbon)
governs*
YES
Is t»e activity someMng
other than exempt recycling
lin§261.6(aX3)?
Activity i« an exempt
recycing and • exempt
YES
Is the acavity sometfwtg
other tfian tfie speoaj Ibnn
of recyding in §261.8<«X2)?
MO
Activity invotot rtgutetod
ftcyCsftiQ undtf Ptft 266 *
permit for storage may be
required*
YES
Is to eaMty something
other tien §261.6(c)
STEP •.
O«t*rmin« tf atoraga
oeeura
STOP I.
Dcfearmln*
# a
Storage penw may be
rvQUfea, out 9te fecydng
operuon is currenvy not
subject fa regutaeon *
YES
eoeuta
STEP 10.
Verify that aothrity
r*quir«c • permit
Perrnst is required §270.1(c);
check Part 268 tor stonge
en
J
in f260.10) occur?
Actoftycunwtfymaynotbe
I EPA
Permtt to required §270.1(c)
unkMS exetnpt under
f270.t(eK2)«
Check Pert 2«
9 ess> if placemen
onlendislagsd
* Check to eee If stale require
ere nrare stringent
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Guidance on Laboratory Testing and RCRA Permitting
This guidance addresses only the issue of whether materials
received by a laboratory must be handled as a hazardous waste
under the federal permit or interim status hazardous waste
management standards. It does not address the issue of the
laboratory which generates hazardous wastes and whether
permitting is required for the laboratory-as-generator.
Individual states (whether authorized under RCRA or not) may
also have requirements that are more strict than the federal
requirements. Thus, although this guidance may indicate that a
particular activity may be conducted without requiring a permit,
in all cases the laboratory director must confirm with the
appropriate state agency whether a permit is required.
Additional assistance on all aspects of the determination
process outlined in this guidance may be obtained by calling the
RCRA/Superfund Industry Assistance Hotline ((800)424-9346,
commercial (202)382-3000; FTS-382-3000).
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Step l. Determine the type of testing that will occur.
If the testing is solely to determine a waste, soil, water, or
air sample's characteristics or composition, the sample's
handling may be subject to reduced regulations under 40 CFR
S261.4(d>.
Step 2. Determine whether the material is a solid waste per
§261.2 (or, in the case of contaminated soil or water, contains a
solid waste). {Note: The term "solid waste" does not refer to a
material's physical form, but to its legal status as a waste vs.
commodity.1
This step requires looking at both the status of the material as
it .is handled in the "outside world" and as it is handled in the
laboratory. For instance, an EP toxic wastewater treatment
sludge which is landfilled in the "outside world" is a solid
waste and a hazardous waste; however/ if it is being tested for
reclamation possibilities, it would be neither a solid waste nor
a hazardous waste until the experimental residue* are discarded.
Another example would be an off-specification commercial chemical
product listed in §261.33. If, in the "outside world", it is
sent for reclamation, it is neither a solid waste nor a hazardous
waste. However, if the laboratory intends to incinerate it, it
is both a solid waste and a hazardous waste* Assistance in this
step may be found by referring to the Guidance Manual on the RCRA
Regulation of Recycled Hazardous Wastes (EPA 530-SW-86-015), or
by calling the RCRA/Superfund Industry Assistance Hotline with
details about the specific situation.
Step 3. Determine whether the solid waste is a hazardous waste.
Refer to §261.4(b) to see if it is a "solid waste which is not a
hazardous waste." If it is not excluded by §261.4(b), refer to
§§261.31-261.33, to determine if it is a listed hazardous waste;
if it is not listed, refer to §§261.20-261.24 to determine if it
is a characteristic hazardous waste. For assistance, call
(800)424-9346.
Step 4. Determine whether the laboratory's activity qualifies
for the treatability study exemption at §261.4(e) and (f).
See the July 19, 1988 Federal Register (53 FR 27290). Individual
state* may not recognize this exemption.
Step 5. Determine whether the laboratory will be performing any
of the recycling operations on waste* which are described in
S261.6(a)(3). If mo, the activity i» not subject to federal RCRA
regulation.
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-2-
Step 6. Determine whether the laboratory will be recycling
wastes in the manner described in S261.6(a)(2 ) .
I Note: Burning for energy recovery must be legitimate recycling.
Current enforcement guidance uses 5000-8000 BTD/lb aa generated
(not as blended for burning) as the dividing point between
legitimate energy recovery and incineration.)
If so, the regulations in S261.6(a)(2) refer the reader to the
appropriate sections of Part 266. In some cases, these
activities will require permits.
Step 7. Determine whether the laboratory's activity is recycling
which may be (currently) exempt from regulation under S261.6(cK
A storage permit may be required.
Step 8. Determine whether storage of hazardous waste received
from off-site.occurs. If »o, a storage permit is required
(§270.Kc)) unless the activity is specifically excluded from the
permit requirement by $270.1(c)(2) and (3). Check Part 268 for
additional regulation of storage of certain hazardous wastes.
Continue to step 9.
Step 9. Determine whether treatment or disposal (as defined in
$260.10) occur. If so, a permit covering these activities may.be
required (§270.l(c)). Research, Development, and Demonstration
activities may be covered by a special type of permit (see
§270.65). In addition, the laboratory must refer to Part 268 for
restrictions on placement of hazardous wastes on land (if land
placement is proposed).
Step 10. Verify that the activity require* a permit. ,Certain
activities are exempt from the permit requirement (»ee
$270.1(c)(2) and <3)>. In addition, Part 268 contains the
restrictions on land placement of certain haazardous wastes.
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9441.1933'-35)
i UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
I WASHINGTON. O.C- 20*60
f I
Mr. Greg Steele
Safety Officer
National Institute for Petroleum
and Energy Research
Post Office Box 2128
Bartlesville. OK 74005
Dear Mr. Steele:
This is in response to your letter of July 12, 1988,
requesting an interpretation of 40 CFR Section 261.4 (d)
regarding the conditional exemption for samples collected for
testing. After consultation with EPA Region VI, we agreed that
a general explanation of the scope of Section 261.4(d) would
help clarify the issue. You should continue to deal with the
State of Oklahoma regarding an interpretation of the rules as
they apply to your facility. Also, please note that a State ma:
impose requirements more stringent than, or in addition to,
EPA•s.
The scope of Section 261.4(d) is defined by the introductor
paragraph (d)(l), which provides that the sol* purpose of
testing must be to determine th« sample's characteristics or
composition; in other words, to characterize the sample. (See
46 FR 47426; September 25, 1981.)
Paragraph (d)(l)(iv) provides that samples stored in a
laboratory before testing are excluded, and paragraph (d)(l)(v)
and (vi) provide for storage of the sample at a laboratory .for
specific purposes. The rule does not specifically say that all
sample preparation/testing occur at a single laboratory; rather
preparation and splitting of samples is generally viewed as par
of the analytical procedures required for waste characterizatic
and this, in many cases, is not done at the same laboratory tha
does the waste testing. Thus, as long as all the other sectior
261.4(d) conditions are met, this two-stage analytical process
is allowable under the exclusion.
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- 2 -
Finally, we note that in your letter you refer to NIPER as
^0-.-* Uie "sample collector." This would only be true, however,
if NIPER personnel actually collect the sample. Being under the
sape contract as the company taking the sample does not make
:;tPER the sample collector. If NIPER is a laboratory, however,
the exclusion could apply as described above.
If you have further questions in this area, please contact
Mike Petruska of my staff at (202) 475-9888.
Sincerely,
Devereaux Barnes, Director
Characterization and
Assessment Division
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944i.l93"(94)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGEN
WASHINGTON. OX. 20460
Of»'CE
SOLID WASTE AND
Mr. Brian C. Sullivan
306 Secretariat Court
Crestview, Kentucky 41017
Dear Mr. Sullivan:
This is in response to your October 2. 1987, letter to
Congressman Jim Bunning regarding steel drum storage and
refurbishing. I appreciate receiving your viewpoints on the
issues you identified in your letter and hope that this letter
addresses the four specific questions you raised.
Specifically, you asked what chemicals are used to clean
drums. Drums are commonly cleaned with chemical solvents,
caustic solutions, and sometimes water. If the cleaning
solutions meet any of the definitions of hazardous waste in
Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 261 (copy
enclosed), they are subject to the hazardous waste rules.
Further, the cleaning solutions are regulated by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and local sewer
authorities to the extent that they are discharged into sewers
or public waters.
In response to your question regarding the measuring of
residue in drums and recordkeeping, the enclosure to this letter
explains how one may manage "empty" drums that previously held
hazardous chemicals. The allowable amount of residue in a drum
is dependent upon the criteria found in Part 261; such as the
number of inches, volume and/or weight. These criteria vary
according to the weight of the drum. If the drum meets the
terms of the above exemption, then the person handling the drum
is not covered under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) and is therefore exempt. (The person who manages the
drum could be a transporter, generator, or disposal facility,
among others.) However, I would like to clarify one point you
made in your letter. In your letter, you state that drums can
contain one inch of waste and still be exempt from regulation.
Although this may be true in certain circumstances, persons are
not allowed to leave one inch of waste in the drum if that waste
can be removed; that is, in emptying a drum one must remove Ail
waste that can be removed using the practices commonly employed
to remove materials, but in no case can more than one inch be
left in the drum. Therefore, we believe many drums will only
contain a slight residue. It should also be noted that any
-------
example, if a drum reconditioner were to accept one drum that
contair.ed hazardous residue in excess of the allowable limits,
he would have to obtain a RCRA hazardous waste permit or would
be in violation of the RCRA rules.
Unfortunately, the EPA does not have specific information on
Queen City regarding how long drums are stored before
reconditioning. As long as the drums are emptied consistent
with EPA rules, the length of storage time is not regulated.
Rather, the limits placed on the residues define a safe level of
residue left in the drum.
In response to your last question, there is a difference
between 110 drums with one-half inch of residue and one drum
full of a hazardous chemical. Generally, the more concentrated
a hazardous chemical, the more harm it may cause when it is
released. Further, it would be impractical to regulate all
drums that contain any amount of a hazardous chemical. The
risks posed by these chemicals are very small.
As mentioned above, I have also enclosed an informational
fact sheet that explains how and when drums that have previously
held hazardous chemicals may be considered "empty* and may
thereby be handled without regulation. If I can be of further
assistance, please let me know.
Sincerely,
J. Winston Porter
Assistant Administrator
Enclosures
cc: Honorable Jim Sunning
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9441.193"(82)
OCT 2 I 1037
NOTE TO: Vic Kimm
Marcia Williams
SUBJECT: Decontamination of Tanker Cars
This responds to your question concerning what requirements
apply to tank cars once the hazardous waste has been emptied from
them. Railroad cars containing a hazardous waste would be
considered containers. Therefore, the container residue limits
and decontamination procedures of 40 CPR $261.7 would apply to
the emptied rail cars. These provisions Include:
1. The tank car would be considered empty if:
a. all waste has been removed using commonly
accepted practices; and
b. no more than 2.5 cm (1 inch) of residue
remains on the bottom of the tank car; or
c. no more than 0.3% by weight of the total
capacity of the tank car remains in the
car.
2. In addition, if the tank car held an acutely hazardous
waste it would be considered empty if it has been
triple rinsed with a solvent capable of removing the
remaining product or it has been cleaned by another
method shown by the literature or tests by the generator
to achieve equivalent removal.
2,4,5-T/Silvex and dinoseb are considered to be acutely hazardous
wastes; EDB is only * hazardous waate.
Suzanne
cc: J. Qreenberg
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RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
AUGUST 87
Manufacturing Process rJni_ts
A nanufacturing process unit that holds methylene
chloride is located within a building that is slated for
demolition. If the owner/operator (o/o) of the unit
closes the building and ceases to operate the unit, how
long does the o/o have before the methylene chloride
must be shipped off-site?
F.rsc, the owner/operator of the unit should
determine if the raethylene chloride would be
regulated as a hazardous waste. If the methylene
chloride is a spent material it would be regulated
as a solid waste if disposed of, used in a manner
constituting disposal, burned for energy recovery,
reclaimed, or accumulated speculatively (Section
251.2(c)(l), (2), (3), and (4)). If the spent
methylene chloride solution contained, before use.
ten percent (10T) or more raethylene chloride, it
would meet either the FOOl or F002 listings in
Section 261.31 and subsequently would also be
regulated as a hazardous waste, assuming the
methylene chloride regulated was utilized for its
solvent properties. If the methylene chloride is a
commer:i«l chemical product and not a spent
material, it would be regulated as a solid waste if
used in a manner constituting disposal, iispose-i
of, or burned for energy recovery (Section
26l.2(c)(l) and (2)). If the product is reclaimed
or accumulated speculativcly it would not be
regulated as a solid waste (Section 25i.2(c)(3) and
(i)). If the solvent is disposed of, used in a
manner constituting disposal, or burned for energy
recovery it is a solid waste and, due to the fact
that it would meet the U080 listing in Section
261.33(f) it would also be regulated as a hazardous
waste.
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RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
AUGUST 87
.\ssu-ning that the -sethylene chloride w o u 1 I be
regulated as a hazardous vaste, 40 C~R Section
251. 4 ( c ) states' that waste generated -. n 3
•nan u fact u ring process unit is not subject to
regulation until the waste exits the unit or anless
the waste remains in the unit for more than 90 jays
after the unit ceases to be operated. The October
30, 1980 Federal Register (46 FS 72024) explains
that this allowance only applies when the generator
is in compliance with Section 252.34. That is.
generators of more than 1000 kg of hazardous waste
per month have 90 days to store the waste without
having to obtain a permit or interim status. As
stated above, for manufacturing process units this
"90-day clock" begins when the waste exists the
unit or when the waste remains in the unit for more
than 90 days after the unit ceases operation.
However, the preamble in 45 FR 72024 states that in
situations where the unit does cease to be operated
for its primary purpose, the "clock" starts when
the operation stops. Thus, the preamble implies
that for the owner/operator of the above unit the
•accumulation period begins the day -hat the
manufacturing process unit is shut down.
It was not the Agency's intent to regulate wastes
\n these units unless * e waste exits the unit or
remains in the unit for aore than 90 days after the
unit is no longer in operation. Therefore,
although there is preamble language to the
contrary, the accumulation period for the
owner/operator of the above unit would begin either
when the vaste exits the unit, or if the waste
remains in the unit for more thmn 90 days, the
clock would then start on day 91.
Furthermore the October 30, 1930 Federal Register
goes on to explain that if hazardous wastes do
remain in the unit for more than 90 days after
cessation of operation, "...EPA believes that these
wastes should be fully regulated and that the units
should be regulated as storage facilities. Thus,
at that point, the owner/operator of the unit would
have to have interim status...** (45 Fjl 72024).
Source: Hike Petruska (202) 475-6676
Matt Straus (202) 475-3551
Research: Chris Bryant
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9441.195~(35>
\3
Mr. John Whitehead
Assistant Product Manager
Madison Chemical Industries, Inc.
490 McGeachie Drive
Milton, Ontario L9T 3Y5
Dear Mr. Whitehead:
I am responding to your letter of May 4, 1987, to Mr. Alan
Corson requesting confirmation of your interpretation concerning
the regulation, under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA), of containers that packaged urethane coating chemicals.
Specifically, you stated that since none of the chemicals
used in your two-part urethane coating system are currently
listed as "P" or "Un wastes in 40 CFR 261.33, the residues in the
containers are not hazardous wastes and, therefore, you would not
need to determine whether the containers are empty in accordance
with 40 CFR 261.7.
Your interpretation is partially correct. Part 261.7 deals
with anv hazardous waste residues left in containers, not just
the commercial chemical products listed in Part 261.33 (or those
hazardous wastes listed in Parts 261.31 and 261.32). Therefore,
it also will be necessary to demonstrate that the container
residues do not exhibit any of the hazardous waste
characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or
extraction procedure (EP) toxicity) before stating that the
residues are not hazardous. If the residues, in fact, are
hazardous (i.e.. they exhibit a hazardous waste characteristic)
then Part 261.7 should be used to determine whether the container
is empty.
If you require additional information, please contact Ed
Abrams at (202) 382-4787.
Sincerely,
Robert M. Scarberry
Chief, Listing Section
cc: Alan Corson, EPA/OSW
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9441.1937(29)
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON. O.C. 20440
APR 3 0 !S57
SOUO WASTC ANO fMfMCKNCv *
Mr. Gordon Davidson
Project Manager for Environmental
Affairs
IT Corporation
600 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20024
Dear Mr. Davidson:
This is in response to your April 9, 1987, letter in
which you request authorization to transport laboratory
samples and associated laboratory wastes contaminated with 2,
3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin from your KnoxvilL*
laboratory back to the Diamond Shamrock Lister Avenue *ite.
You state that the samples originated from the clean-up
associated with this site.
It is my understanding, from a telephone conversation
between you and Doreen Sterling of my staff, that you arc
unsure if the waste in question is actually covered by the
Dioxin Listings. You are, however, handling your waste as
if it were hazardous. Our response, therefore, assumes that
the waste in question is a "hazardous waste".
According to 40 CFR 261.4(d), a laboratory may transport
a sample, which is collected for the sole purpose of testing
to determine its characteristics or composition, back to the
sample collector. Ho approval from the Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (IPA) is required for this action. However,
one* the sample is received at the Lister Avenue site, it
must be managed as a hazardous waste.
You also stated in your telephone conversation with
Doreen Sterling that the associated wastes in question include
lab solvents, protective gear, etc. which were used during
analysis. These wastes are not covered by the provisions of
Section 261.4(d). Rather, these materials either are listed
hazardous waste (i.e., spent solvents) or contain a listed
hazardous waste (i.e., protective gear) and must be managed
-------
as if it were an acute hazardous waste. However, if the
material* that contain listed hazardous waste are decontaminated
such that they no longer contain the listed waste, they are
no longer subject to Subtitle C regulations. Any rinsate,
generated during cleaning would, however, be an acute hazardous
waste via application of the mixture rule (40 CFR 261. 3 (a) (2).
If you have any further questions, please contact Doreen
Sterling of my staff at (202) 475-6775.
Sincerely,
Marcia E. Williams
Director
Office of Solid Waste
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9441.1986(96)
RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
DECEMBER 86
1. Hastes Generated in Process Units
When, if ever, is waste which is generated in a Safety-Kleen parts
washer regulated under RCRA?
In a May 1986 memorandum "Monthly Report-ROvV'Superfund Industry
Assistance Hotline Report for May 1986", EPA addressed the
regulatory status of parts washers leased from the Saf ety-Kleen
Corporation. At that time, the Agency viewed these parts
washers as manufacturing process units. Consequently, the
wastes generated in the parts washers would be subject to the
exclusion in §261.4(c) and thus would not be regulated unless
removed from the unit or until they had remained in the unit
more than 90 days after the unit ceased to be operated.
Since tiiat time, the Agency has studied this issue further
and has determined that Saf ety-Kleen parts washers cannot be
viewed as manufacturing process units. It is the Agency's
understandijng that Saf ety-Kleen parts washers usually consist
of some sort of cleaning apparatus attached to the ton of a
drum of. solvent material. Solvent is drawn up into the cleaning
apparatus for us« and is discharged back into the drum afterward.
Fallowing a period of use, the solvent in the drum becomes too
contaminated to clean effectively. Periodically, someone from
Saf ety-Kleen exchanges a fresh cleaning unit for the spent
unit, which he will then transport to a Safety-Xleen facility
for recycling. In other situations, the cleaning apparatus
is removed at the operator's site and placed atop a fresh drum
of solvent. Frequently, an operator will accumulate several
drums of spent solvent in this manner before the Safety-Kleen
worker arrives to replace the spent solvent drums with fresh
drums.
Wien the solvent can no longer be used effectively, it is
classified as spent material. A spent material sent for
reclamation is regulated as a solid waste under RCRA, §261.2(c).
Furthermore, if the waste is listed in Subpart 0 of Part 261 or
exhibits any of the characteristics identified in Subpart C of
Part 261, Chen the waste is also regulated as haMrftnm waste
under RCRA. Consequently, when the operator decides the solvent
has become too contaminated for further use, it beuuiiea regulated
as hazardous waste. The operator will thus become a generator
of hnrtr*"""1 waste when the cleaning apparatus is removed fr=m
the drum.
Source: Bob Axelrad (202) 475-8551
Matt Straus (202) 475-6551
Maureen Smith (202) 382-7703
Research: Kris Andersen
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 9441.1986(65)
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20460
SEP 31986
OFFICE OF
SOLID WASTE AND CMtKGENCY *ES*Ors.S£
Mr. Ernest J. Corrado
Vice President
American Institute of Merchant Shipping
1000 16th Street, N.W., Suite 511
Washington, D.C., 20036
Dear Mr. Corrado:
Thank you for your August 6, 1986, letter in which you set
forth the maritime industry legal analysis on the aoplication of
the Resource Conservation and Reovery Act (RCRA) regulations to
vessel wastes. While I do not agree with a number of the conclu-
sions you have drawn regarding Congress1 intent to limit RCRA
jurisdiction to land disposal, I do agree that the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) did in fact promulgate an txemption from
RCRA regulation for raw material and product transport vessels.
In my February 5, 1986 letter to Vice Admiral Rots of" the
Coast Guard, we concluded that different types of wastes generated
in vessels were regulated differently under the hazardous waste
rules. This conclusion was based on the intent underlying EPA's
exemption of hazardous waste generated in product or raw material
transport vessels until the waste is purposely removed from the
vessel. 40 CFR $ 261.4(c). We believe that the exemption was
intended to cover only those hazardous sediments and residues
produced in the units containing valuable product or raw material.
As articulated in the preamble to the rule, EPA judged that:
(T)hese hazardous wastes are contained against
release into the environment . . . and the risks
they pose to human health or the environment
are very low and are only incidental to the
risks posed by the valuable product or raw
material with which they are associated (emphasis
added).45 Fed. Reg. 72024,72025 (Oct. 30, 1980).
Sine* wastes generated on other parts of the ship,
including engine room wastes, are not directly associated with
the storage or transport of valuable product, we did not deem any
other hazardous wastes generated aboard the ship to be covered
by the S 261.4 exemption. However, as a result of the points
that you raised in the June 6, 1986 meeting with members of my
staff, we have taken another look at this issue.
-------
The language of S 261.4(c) refers to hazardous waste
generated in a product or raw material transport vessel as being
exempted/ rather than the product-containing unit itself. EPA
defined the terra "vessel" in S 260.10 to include "every descriotior
of watercraft..../" which describes the whole vessel rather than
any particular tank or unit in the vessel. Thus, we believe that
there is a regulatory basis for considering all waste generated
in the vessel to be exempt from regulation until it is purposely
removed. In addition/ we understand that the regulated community
has relied on this broader view of the exemption since 1980. Given
the fact that there has been substantial reliance for some time
on a legitimate, although unintended, reading of the regulatory
language, we have become convinced that it is reasonable to view
the exemption as extending to all hazardous waste management
activity on the product or raw material transport vessel. However,
as specified in S 261.4(c), all hazardous wastes generated in the
vessel become subject to RCRA regulation as soon as the waste is
removed from the vessel {anywhere within U.S. waters) or within
90 days after the vessel is no longer operated as a product or
raw material storage or transport vessel.
Therefore, when any hazardous waste is removed from the
vessel, the owner of the product or raw material/ the operator of
the vessel, and the person purposefully removing the hazardous
waste from the vessel would all be considered."generators", as
defined in S 260.10 of the regulations. Any of those partres
deemed to be a "generator" of the waste/ therefore/ could perform
any or all of the duties of the generator. As EPA pointed out in
the October 30, 1980 preamble to the rule, the Agency would look
initially to the operator of a central facility operated to
remove sediments and residues from the vessel to perform the
generator duties, which includes obtaining an EPA identification
number. Of course, this should not be construed as requiring a
central facility or terminal to remove hazardous waste from a
vessel. In situations where hazardous wastes generated in the
vessel are not removed at a central facility, the Agency would
look to the vessel operator to perform the generator duties. See
45 Fed. Reg. at 72027.
While we have some concern that the literal reading of
S 261.4(c) exempts from regulation some hazardous wastes that
were not intended to be exempt when EPA promulgated the regulatory
amendment (i.e., waste generated aboard vessels in other, than
product or-iaw material cargo tanks), we believe that such a
literal reading of $ 261.4(c) poses low risk to human health
and the environment for several reasons. First, as indicated in
the February 5 letter/ we do not believe that generation of
hazardous wastes in units not related to product or raw material
storage or transportation, such as bilges, to be a serious problem
while aboard the vessel since the ship itself is designed
to prevent leaks. Second,-to the extent that oily residues from
propulsion systems are not contaminated with listed wastes, such
as spent solvents, the oily wastewater now required to be discharged
-------
to shoreside reception facilities under MARPOL would not meet the
definition of hazardous waste. ^/ Finally, as noted above, any
hazardous wastes generated in oroduct or raw material transport
vessels are subject to RCRA when they are discharged from or
otherwise exit.the vessel. Thus releases to the environment
would still be regulated under RCRA.
I hooe that this has been responsive to your concerns.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further
questions.
Sincerely,
Marcia E. Williams, Director
Office of Solid Waste
*/ As you correctly point out, EPA has proposed to list used
oil as a hazardous waste; however, EPA is reconsidering the
entire used oil issue. Should the Agency move forward in finalizing
rules in this area, those rules would take into consideration the
special problems of shipboard wastes.
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3441.1986(58)
RCRA/SUPERFUND HOTLINE MONTHLY SUMMARY
JUNE 86
c
1. Treatment Studies and Permits
A generator of hazardous waste would like to send hazardous waste
samples to a facility that will perform innovative treatment studies
on the samples. These "treatability studies" involve investigating
new methods or techniques to change the physical/ chemical, or
biological character or composition of the waste and render the
waste less hazardous, or non-hazardous. Wiat regulations ittist a
facility comply with if the facility accepts hazardous waste samples
for treatability studies and the facility uses technology for which
Parts 264, 265 and 266 standards have not been promulgated to date?
On September 25, 1981 (46 FR 47426), EPA excluded samples of
hazardous waste fron PCRA regulations in Parts 262-270 when
stored, transported and tested for hazardous waste characteristics
or composition. This lab sample exclusion is codified as
$261.4(d). Samples of hazardous waste collected for "treatability
studies" are not included in the $261.4(d) lab sample exclusion.
Therefore, "treatability studies" are subject to RCRA interim
status or permit standards in Parts 264, 265, 266 and 270.
The Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 (HSK&) added
Section 3005{g) to provide EPA the authority to issue research,
development and demonstration (RD&D) permits for treatment
activities. The purpose of RD&D permits is to authorize
experimental testing of new hazardous waste treatment technologies
or processes* This new authority has been codified in 40 CFR
S270.65 (50 FR 28752, July 15, 1985). The statute and $270.65(a)
authorize EPA to issue permits for innovative and experimental
hazardous waste treatment technology or process activities,
including those which are not yet subject to RCRA Parts 264.
The EPA is developing Part 264 permit standards for miscellaneous
units (Subpart X) and experimental facilities (Subpart Y). The
Subpart X regulations will provide permit authority for units
that are currently not regulated in 40 CFR Parts 146 and 264.
These units include deep mines, silos, salt mines, thermal
treatment units and open detonation units. The Subpart Y
regulations may replace $270.65 authority and will provide
permit standards for experimental facilities. Proposed regulations
for Subpart X are scheduled for publication in the Federal
Register by the Fall of 1986» Subpart Y is expected to be
proposed at a later date.
Source: Ren Gray, Office of General Counsel (202) 382-7700
-------
9441.1986(0
UNITED STATE" NVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
JAN 71986
Mr. John L. Cherill
Corning Manufacturing & Engineering
Division
Corning Glass Works
Corning, New York 14831
Dear Mr. Cherillt
This letter confirms our discussion and your letter of late
November with regard to Coming's use of a vacuum truck to filter
the dust and the regulatory status of the "empty" truck.
While the RCRA regulations are not specific in this regard,
you are correct in your assessment that the definition of "empty",
as applied to containers in 40 CPR 262.7, is also applicable to
other situations, such as your truck. Generally, we have supplied
the interpretation that the empty container definition may be
applied to tanker vehicles as well as to containers. Thus, if
you have emptied your vacuum truck by means normally used for
such vehicles, the vehicle is considered "empty* if no more than
one inch of material remains, or an equivalent volume (as defined
in 40 CPR 261.1).
You should be aware that RCRA is intended to be implemented
by the States. When a State has been authorized to conduct the
hazardous waste management program in that Sta,te, their rules
prevail in lieu of the federal standards. YSff should check with
the appropriate State office in the jurisdictions of concern
to you for their interpretation of the regulatory status of your
operations. The interpretation given above in only pertinent to
those States where federal regulations prevail.
If you have any further questions or need additional helo in
the RCRA regulations please call our hotline at 800-424-9346. I
can be reached at 202/382-4770.
Sincerely,
Alan S. Corson
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9441.1936(1
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY —
JAN 71986
Dale D. Parker, Ph.D.
Executive Secretary
Utah Solid and Hazardous Wastes
Committee
3180 State Office Building
P.O. Box 45500
Salt Lake City, Utah 84145-0500
Dear Dr. Parkert
This is in response to your letter of November 5, 1985, in
which you inquire as to the regulatory status of hazardous wastes
remaining in "empty" containers. Specifically, you ask whether
burning of the residue in empty drums constitutes incineration
(treatment) as defined in the RCRA regulations.
The regulations, at 40 CPR 261.7(a)(l), clearly state that
•[ajny hazardous waste remaining in ... an erapty container... is
not subject to regulation under ... RCRA.* Since the residue is
not regulated, its management does not constitute hazardous waste
management. In your referenced example, the burnina of residue
by a drum recycler would not be considered incineration of
hazardous waste and would not require a permit. The management
of the ash and waste from such burning as hazardous is not required
by the federal regulation*} the drum recycler is probably taking
this approach as being environmentally preferable.
I believe this confirms the answer given to you by the RCRA
hotline. Of course. State regulations, in authorized States,
would prevail in lieu of federal regulations and may be more
stringent. If you have further questions please let roe know.
Sincerely,
Alan S. Corson
Branch Chief
Studies and Methods Branch
cc: Connie S. Nakahara
-------
9441.1985(15)
MAY 2 0 1985 |
Mr. Stanley L. Johnson o
Division of Licensing and Enforcement 5
Department of Environmental Protection a
State douse station 17 \
Augusta, Maine 04333 £
Dear Mr. Johnsont 2
Alan Corson asked me to respond to your letter dated —
April 10, 1985, because we previously collaborated on the £
paper baa issue. Section 261.33(c) considers a container that ^
held a hazardous waste listed in $261.33(e) (P-listed waste) t
to be hazardous waste until the bag is empty as defined in o
S261.7(b)(3). Section 261.7(b)(3)(i) involves triple rinsing i
with an appropriate solvent, (ii) allows cleaning *by another ^>
method that has been shown in the scientific literature, or by w
tests coducted by the generator, to achieve eqivalent removal,* *
and (iii) declares that a container is empty if the liner is ^
removed. Your question was how can paper bags n»et these u»
criteria? The answer is that beating the bags after emptying . o
can oe an alternative to triple rinsing, as the RCRA/Superfund \
dot line explained. *-
a
IK
The Office of Solid Waste had no written policy until _
this letter, but 'bag beating* has been an acceptable alternative x
to triple rinsing on an oral basis probably since 1981. There *f
are, however, no references in the literature that compare the £
removal efficiency of repeated tapping of the outside of an
inverted paper bag vs. triple rinsing that the regulations
seem to require.
Ray Krueger, of the Office of Pesticide Programs, EPA,
said that repeated tapping with a stick is an effective removal
mechanism, thowgfc OPP has no written policy saying so. He
expressed conoern about the worker exposure, and he suggested
an alternative, explained on the enclosed copy of PR notice
483-3, issued March 29, 1983, by OPP, that cites open burning
as a possible disposal method, subject to Federal, State, and
local approval. The pesticide program has data that indicates
that such open burning leaves little residue in the soil,
because the thermal treatment break down the chemicals. Zn
terms of RCRA, the November 25, 1980, (45 FR 78528) preamble
sayss "Forma of container cleaning other than triple rinsing
may constitute treatment...the burning operation is designed <1
i
-------
to rsaova as* dastroy tha vaataa.. .Thaaa proc«ssaa w,t tha RCRA
definition o£ *traat»ant* and ara thus aubjact to tha r^quirli.-
•»nt« of Fare 2i4 and 265.* Onlavs tha ganarator aat tha
••all quantity ganarator raquiraaants* ganarating lass than
ona kilogram of P-liatad waataa in tba givan calandar «onth,
burning tha bags would ba subjact to RCRA traatwant standards*
I hopa this lattar anawara your quaation for aaptylng
papar bags. If you hava any questions, plaaas faal fraa to
contact MS at (202) 382*2550.
Sincaraly yours*
Irana 8. Bornar
BnrirooBantal Protaction Spaclalist
Studiaa and Hathoda Branch (MH-S*2B)
Bnclosui
cc< Alan S. Corson
RCRA/Suparfund Uotlina
-------
9441.1984(34)
- _ -..,.. ^/J*/111^0 5TATE* ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION A
CATS:
28 NOY
Empty Container Rule
John H. Skinner, Director \ J> 11 *S-
°" Office of Solid Waste (WH-562) ^*t*>
T0 Karl J. Klepitsch, Jr., Chief
Waste Management Branch
0
This is in response to your October 24, 1984, memorandum
in which you requested a clarification of the Headquarters
position on emptying tank cars. Let me reiterate the position
Alan Cor son took during his conversation with Gary Victorine
and relate it to the information included in your memorandum.
At that time, Gary did not emphasize that the tank cars had
bottom valves.
Alan told Gary that if only top unloading is available, the —
tank car is empty only if as much has been removed as possible
and no more than an inch or no more than 0.3% of the total capacity
' (weight) remains. However, the Agency expects bottom valves to
be used, when present, if they provide maximum removal of waste.
^
Likewise, a 55-gallon drum should be emptied as completely
as possible. If pouring from an inverted drum removes more
residual than a hand pump does, then pouring is obligatory. Of
course, removal must be performed to achieve maximum possible
removal, not just to the one-inch level or 0.3% capacity, in order
to produce an empty container according to 40 CPR 5261.7(b) (1).
40 CPR S261.7(b)(l)(i) states in partt *All wastes have
been removed that can be removed using the practices commonly
employed ..., e.o., pouring, pumping, and aspirating....* The
August 18, 1982, preamble says that one inch of waste can be left
in an empty container only if it remains after performing normal
removal operations. Taken together, these citations support the
interpretation that all commonly employed emptying methods
have to be employed to empty a container. "Commonly employed*
refers to the normal practice of industry, not to what a given
person does. Thus, container* that have not been subjected to
all commonly employed methods of emptying are still subject to
regulation.
If you have any further questions on this issue, please do not
hesitate to contact Alan Corson of my staff at PTS-382-4770.
ccs Hazardous Waste Branch Chiefs, Regions I-X
-------
-------
Special Management
Practices
-------
Exhibit XI
Special Management Practices
Overheads from Presentations
Relevant Federal Regulatory Citations
RCRA Policy Excerpts
EPA Region 2 243
-------
-------
Exhibit XI-1
Hazardous Waste Handled Under
Special Management Practices
•There are several points addressed in the regulations which do not "neatly" fit into the flow charts.
•These basically go to the question of when a hazardous waste becomes regulated.
EPA Region 2 244
-------
Exhibit XI-2
Hazardous Wastes Produced In
Process Tanks
• A hazardous waste generated in a product or raw material
storage tank, transport vehicle, pipeline or process unit is
not subject to regulation until it exits the unit
Exceptions:
• Unit is a surface impoundment
• 90 days after unit ceases to be operational
§261.4(c)
•The reason for this distinction is to ensure that RCRA doesn't force every process tank under its jurisdiction.
•Without this clarification, any tank or pipe with hazardous sludge at the bottom could be considered a hazardous waste storage tank.
•The exceptions to the rule are to ensure:
- No wastes inadvertently escapes to the environment.
- Process tanks taken out of service do not hold hazardous waste without any management. If wastes are not removed within 90 days, the tank is a
regulated unit and requires a permit.
EPA Region 2 245
-------
Exhibit XI-2
Containers May Also Be Regulated
• If they formerly held a hazardous waste, and
• If the container is not "empty"
§261.7(a)
•Similarly, there needed to be a clarification on when containers formerly holding hazardous waste may be considered to be hazardous waste.
•The purpose is to ensure all hazardous wastes - and their residues in tanks and drums are properly regulated.
EPA Region 2 246
-------
Exhibit XI-4
A Container Is "Empty" If
For compressed gas, the pressure in container = atmospheric pressure
For acute hazardous waste, the container or inner liner is:
Triple rinsed
Cleaned using equivalent method
Inner liner removed
Hospital Examples:
• Containers of arsenic (PO12)
• Canisters of osmium tetroxide (P087)
•The first is obvious. If the container is at atmospheric pressure, no materials will leave or enter the container. 8 9 ^ 1
•For the "P-listed" wastes, there is concern that even small amounts are hazardous. Therefore, the triple-rinse requirement. &
•Federal rules exempt epinephrine syringes and nicotine patches. From 54 FR 31335, 31336 (July 28, 1989), drug residues residues
remaining in a dispensing instrument to have been used for their intended purpose. The epinephrine remaining in the syringe, therefore, is not a commercial
chemical product and not a P042 hazardous waste. It could be a RCRA hazardous waste, however, if it exhibits a characteristic of
hazardous waste.
EPA Region 2 247
-------
Exhibit XI-5
A Container Is "Empty" If (Cont'd)
• For other hazardous wastes
- Container or inner liner has been emptied using common
practices (e.g., pouring, pumping, and aspirating and
- Holds no more than the following amounts of the wastes
i 2.5 cm, or
i 3.0% by weight (if container < 110 gallons), or
i 0.3% by weight (if container > 110 gallons)
§261.7(b)(l)
•The amounts were added to reconfirm the need to completely empty the container.
•They were also added to facilitate enforcement of the requirement.
•Common practices include pouring, pumping, and aspirating.
EPA Region 2 248
-------
Exhibit XI-6
Reverse Distribution
• Allows the return of unused pharmaceuticals to the manufacturer or
reverse distributor as a product (i.e., determination to discard is made at
the reverse distributor)
• Allows the return of expired pharmaceuticals
• Waste determination is made at the reverse distributor
• Prohibits the shipping of items that are known to be wastes
• Policy Memos:
- Merck-1981
- BFI Pharmaceutical - 1991
• Returns Industry Association
• www.returnsindustry.com
EPA Region 2 249
-------
Exhibit XI-7
Laboratories
• States and local municipalities often regulate
wastewater discharges
• May also regulate lab fume hood exhausts through a
permitting system
• "Sink Disposal" issues
• Lab Packs
• "Spring Cleaning" issues
• Environmental Resource Guide for Small Laboratories
• www.epa.gov/sbo/labguide.htm
EPA Region 2 250
-------
Exhibit XI-8
Laboratories Pack 49 CFR § 173.12
• Definition: A number of small containers (i.e. jugs and
bottles) of hazardous waste, are individually packaged in
a traditional 55 gallon drum
• This eliminates the need to transfer wastes and reduces
the potential for mixing incompatible materials; but
• This is often the most expensive method
EPA Region 2 251
-------
Exhibit XI-9
Incompatible Wastes
The term incompatible waste refers to a hazardous waste
which is unsuitable for:
(1) Placement in a container because it may cause corrosion
or decay of the container or inner liner; or
(2) Commingling with another waste or material under
uncontrolled conditions because it might produce
heat or pressure, fire or explosion, violent reaction,
toxic dusts, mists, fumes or gases, or flammable fumes or
gases (Section 260.10)
Containers used to store hazardous waste must be made of or
lined with materials that will not react with and are otherwise
compatible with the waste in the container (Sections
264/265.172)
EPA Region 2 252
-------
Exhibit XI-10
Incompatible Wastes (Cont'd)
Incompatible wastes and materials must not be placed in the same
container (Sections 264/265.177)
This requirement includes unwashed containers that previously
held an incompatible waste or material. Incompatible wastes or
materials can only be mixed in a manner that will not cause an
adverse reaction, such as an explosion or uncontrolled flammable
fumes (Sections 264/265.17(b))
Appendix V in Part 264/265 provides a list of potentially
incompatible wastes. The list is not intended to be exhaustive.
Adequate analysis should be performed to avoid creating
uncontrolled hazards such as heat generation, violent reaction, fire,
explosion, and generation of flammable or toxic gases.
EPA Region 2 253
-------
Exhibit XI-11
Incompatible Wastes (Cont'd)
Additional Sources of information on incompatible wastes
are:
- Naval Occupational Safety and Health, and
Environmental Training Center
i http://www.norva.navy.mil/navosh/chartnew.htm
- NOAA's Chemical Reactivity Worksheet
i http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/chemaids/react.
EPA Region 2 254
-------
Exhibit XI-12
Satellite Accumulation Areas (262.34c)
• HW generators may accumulate 55 gallons of HW or one
quart of acute HW in containers at or near any point of
generation where wastes initially accumulate, which is
under the control of the operator of the process
generating the waste, without a permit or interim status
provided
• The container is in good condition
• The waste is compatible with the container and only
other compatible wastes will be added to the container
EPA Region 2 255
-------
Exhibit XI-13
Satellite Accumulation Areas (Cont'd)
• The container is always kept closed except when waste is
being added or removed
• The container is marked either with the words "Hazardous
Waste" or with other words that identify the contents of the
container
• Once the above volume limits are exceeded, you must
remove the waste )to an accumulation point, permitted
storage, or ship the waste off-site), within three days
• You must also comply with any additional state
requirements, as applicable
EPA Region 2 256
-------
Exhibit XI-14
90-Day Storage Areas
40 CFR § 262.34 allows a facility to accumulate any
quantity of waste in containers, tanks, drip pads, and
containment buildings for up to 90 days without a
permit, provided that you meet the technical standards
for the containment unit
LQGs that meet all technical standards for hazardous
waste accumulation also may treat the waste without
obtaining a RCRA permit
EPA Region 2 257
-------
Exhibit XI-15
90-Day Storage Areas (Cont'd)
• Generators must clearly mark the date that accumulation begins
on each container storing hazardous waste so that it is visible for
inspection
• LQGs are also responsible for complying with "preparedness and
prevention" requirements in the event of emergencies. In
addition, you must prepare a written contingency plan and train
employees on hazardous waste management and emergency
response
• If your facility accumulates wastes for more than 90 days, it is
considered a storage facility and must follow regulations
described in 40 CFR Parts 264 and 270, unless you have been
granted an extension by your EPA Regional Administrator
EPA Region 2 258
-------
Exhibit XI-16
Disposal Down the Drain
• Beware of septic system hook-ups and floor drains. Any
hazardous waste disposed down the drain could be both a
RCRA and SDWA (UIC) violation
• Do not dispose of chemicals in sinks without prior approval
from your publicly owned treatment works (POTW)
• Be wary of RCRA hazardous wastes that may not reach
treatment plants (e.g., volatilization or pipe leaks)
EPA Region 2 259
-------
Exhibit XI-17
Best Management Practices (BMPs)
• Reverse Distribution of Expired Pharmaceuticals
• Top Down Policy Making
- Management supporting good waste management leads
to better compliance records
• Regular Self-Audits
• Good Employee Training
• Operating Room Kits
- Reuse parts of OR kits that are not expired
• Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP): PVC and
Mercury Free
EPA Region 2 260
-------
Exhibit XI-18
Best Management Practices (BMPs)
(Cont'd)
• Minimize Pesticides
• Minimize Red Bag Waste
- Put regular solid waste in regular trash
• Know Where Your Waste Is: Computer Tracking
• The Resource Conservation Challenge
- www.epa.gov/rcc
• Performance Track
- www. epa. go v/performancetrack
EPA Region 2 261
-------
Exhibit XI-19
Hazardous Waste Contacts
(EPA Region 2)
• For more information about hazardous waste requirements
for hospitals and healthcare:
- EPA Region 2 RCRA Compliance Branch
i Steven Petrucelli, (212) 637-3129
i General number, (212) 637-4145
- EPA Region 2 Compliance Assistance Program
i Diane Buxbaum, (212) 637-3919
- EPA Region 2 Solid Waste Program
i Lorraine Graves, (212) 637-4099
EPA Region 2 262
-------
Exhibit XI-20
Hazardous Waste Contacts
(EPA National & States)
• EPA RCRA Hotline (800) 424-9346
• New York State DEC Hazardous Waste Generator
Hotline (800) 462-6553
• New Jersey State DEP Bureau of Solid and Hazardous
Waste Enforcement (609) 584-4250
• Caribbean Environmental Protection Division (787) 729-
6951
EPA Region 2 263
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Exhibit XI-21
Relevant Federal Regulations
40 CFR Part 261
26L4(c),(d),(e),(f)
261.7
261.8
40 CFR Parts 264 and 265
Appendix V- Incompatible Wastes
EPA Region 2 264
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Exhibit XI-22
Other Guidance
Guidance Material on Special
Management Practices
EPA Region 2 265
-------
-------
Preparedness and Prevention
Regulatory Requirement - Section 262.34(a)(4)
"... a generator may accumulate hazardous waste on-site for 90 days or less without a
permit or without having interim status provided that... the generator complies with the
requirements for owners or operators in Subparts C and D in Part 265 ..."
Part 265 Subpart C— Preparedness and Prevention, contains the following sections:
• 265.30 - Applicability
• 265.31 - Maintenance and operation of facility
• 265.32 - Required equipment
• 265.33 - Testing and maintenance of equipment
• 265.34 - Access to communications or alarm system
• 265.35 - Required aisle space
• 265.37 - Arrangements with local authorities
Maintenance and Operation of Facility
Regulatory Requirement - Section 265.3l(a)
"Facilities must be maintained and operated to minimize the possibility of a fire,
explosion, or any unplanned sudden or non-sudden release of hazardous waste or
hazardous waste constituents to air, soil, or water which could threaten human health or
the environment.''
Interpretive Guidance
Facilities should be designed, constructed, maintained, and operated in a manner that minimizes
the possibility for emergency incidents (fire, explosion, or release of hazardous waste) through
the use of fire protection systems, standard operating procedures, effective maintenance
schedules and programs, and comprehensive emergency response procedures. In addition to
these factors, incidents and any impacts can be further minimized through compliance with the
regulatory requirements related to the management of hazardous waste itself. Some additional
prevention and preparedness elements include:
1) Locating hazardous waste containers and tanks away from high-traffic areas and
uncontrolled floor drains.
2) Providing secondary containment in hazardous waste container storage/accumulation
areas through the use of chemical-resistant coatings or secondary-containment pallets (a
regulatory requirement for accumulation in tanks).
3) Ensuring the compatibility of waste with containers and tanks (regulatory requirement).
4) Keeping incompatible wastes separated (regulatory requirement).
. 5) Keeping containers closed and labeled for easy identification (regulatory requirement).
CDPHE 2
-------
Regulatory Requirement - Section 265.31 (b)
"Facilities which are not provided with fire protection services by a fire protection
district or municipal fire department must be maintained and operated in accordance with
a plan for providing their own fire protection and prevention which has been approved
by the Department..."
Interpretive Guidance
The fire protection plan needs to be approved by the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division. Refer to the Colorado
Hazardous Waste Regulations [Section 265.31(b)(l) through (5)] for guidance on the specific
requirements for this plan.
Required Equipment
Regulatory Requirement - Section 265.32(a)
"All facilities must be equipped with the following, unless none of the hazards posed by
waste handled at the facility could require a particular kind of equipment specified
below:
(a) An internal communications or alarm system capable of providing immediate
emergency instruction (voice or signal) to facility personnel."
Interpretive Guidance
An easily accessible internal communications system capable of providing immediate
emergency instruction to facility personnel may vary depending on facility size and function.
For small shops, the human voice may be sufficient to alert personnel. For larger shops, or for
facilities with multiple functional areas, an intercom or loud speaker system, fire pull stations,
or other types of alarm/communication systems may be necessary.
Example
The operations building at ABC Corporation is equipped with 15 wall-mounted switches tied
into an electric bell alarm and light system. Ten switches are located in production areas,
adjacent to each of 10 work stations, and five are located in storage areas. The switches are
clearly marked for rapid identification. Workmen are instructed to keep the surrounding areas
free of obstructions. Activation of any individual switch will sound all bell alarms and lights in
the svstem.
Regulatory Requirement - Section 265.32(b)
" (b) A device, such as a telephone (immediately available at the scene of operations) or
a hand-held two-way radio, capable of summoning emergency assistance from local
police departments, fire departments, or State or local emergency response teams;"
CDPHE 3
-------
H2E Tools/Resources: Universal Waste
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Universal Waste
What is Universal Waste?
"Universal waste" refers to commonly discarded products, .including batteries,
pesticides, thermostats, and lamps, and may also include antifreeze, or cathode ray
tubes depending upon your state's universal waste rule. Universal wastes, if not
recycled, exhibit characteristics of hazardous materials and must be managed as
hazardous wastes. Because universal wastes are commonly used products and pose a
relatively low risk during accumulation and transport, managing these wastes by
recycling them according to "universal waste guidelines" facilitates environmentally-
sound collection and increased recycling of these materials. Check your state specific
regulations, found on the EPA .Universal Waste E3EE^ we^ s^Gr or on yOUr state
environmental regulatory agency web sites.
Federal Universal Waste Guidelines
These regulations have streamlined hazardous waste management standards for the
federal universal wastes (batteries, pesticides, thermostats, and lamps). The
regulations govern the collection and management of these widely generated wastes.
These regulations are set forth in 40 CFR part 273. l'-'~-*E£$
For more specific information, check the following Universal Waste topics:
• Batteries
• Fluorescent Light Bulbs
• Electronics
Batteries
Why Should Hospitals Recycle Batteries?
Billions of batteries are bought, used, and thrown out in the United States every year.
Many batteries contain toxic constituents such as mercury and cadmium, posing a
potential threat to human health and the environment when improperly disposed.
Although batteries generally make up only a tiny portion of the municipal solid waste
stream — less than 1 percent — they account for a disproportionate amount of the
heavy metals. EPA has reported that, as of 1995, nickel-cadmium batteries accounted
for 75 percent of the cadmium found in the municipal solid waste stream. Since the
early 1980s, manufacturers have reduced their use of mercury by over 98 percent.
Many manufacturers are also designing batteries for a longer life and are producing
more rechargeable batteries each year. The National Electrical Manufacturers
Association has estimated that U.S. demand for rechargeable batteries is growing
twice as fast as the demand for non-rechargeable batteries. Because batteries
disposed of in municipal landfills and trash incinerators can disperse significant
amounts of heavy metals and other toxic substances into the air and water, battery
waste prevention and recycling strategies are essential.
Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RB.RC) E2E£E$> js a non-profit, public
service organization that recycles rechargeable batteries - nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd),
nickel metal hydride (NiMH), Lithium Ion (Li), and small sealed lead batteries. RBRC
http://www.h2e-online.org/tools/univwast.htm
2/22/04
-------
H2E Tools/Resources: Universal Waste Page 2 of 3
educates rechargeable battery manufacturers, retailers, and users in North America
about the benefits and accessibility of rechargeable battery recycling and implements
recycling programs where none exist. Businesses and agencies with large quantities of
batteries can sign up with RBRC to implement their own collection programs.
Earth 91.1 E3EEJ> helps you locate battery recyclers in your area by inputting your zip
code.
EPA's 'Universal Waste website. EHEE" jab Tesnau is EPA's Universal Waste contact
(703-605-0636 or tesnau.tab@epa.gov)
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) represents alkaline battery
manufacturers, among other industry members, and maintains an unverified iist of
companies that collect, recycle, or treat used batteries. **5I2;|»
The Institution Recycling Network &MS& \s a cooperative that improves the financial
and operating results for recycling programs at colleges and universities, hospitals,
nursing homes, private schools, and similar institutions. The Network's core services
are cooperative marketing of recycled materials, and cooperative purchasing of
recycling-related supplies and equipment.
Battery Recovery. Laws Worldwide - 2001 Update. Baffi y^is 80-page report reviews
the current state of battery takeback initiatives worldwide. The report includes
summaries of takeback and labeling regulations for rechargeable and household
batteries in 24 countries. The report's 55-page appendix includes tables of federal,
state, and international laws.
Electronics JShpp. -.. Sp.e.nt.Battery..Management EaEE^
This article from EPA covers battery disposal. Note that this article says California
regulates alkaline batteries as hazardous waste due to zinc. The HW characterization
requirements of Alaska, California, Minnesota, Rhode Island and Washington include
bioassay, a more stringent process.
Fact Sheet: Disposal of Alkaline Batteries
This fact sheet from EPA is intended for users of alkaline batteries. It describes how
alkaline batteries should be handled, provided general information on regulations
governing these batteries and gives suggested disposal procedures.
Battery Round-Ups: Get ..Charged!
(PDF format, 2 pages, 277KB, requires Acrobat Reader to view)
Health Care Without Harm
November 2001
Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act
A factsheet by the OEPA Environmental Law Summary.
Back to top
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Fluorescent Lamp Recycling; 10 Steps to a Successful Program
(PDF format, 4 pages, 396KB, requires Acrobat Reader to view)
A Fact sheet from the Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) Program. This guide
also contains links to other resources for fluorescent lamp recycling.
http ://www .h2 e-online. org/tools/uni vwast. htm 2/22/04
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H2E Tools/Resources: Universal Waste Paye 3 of 3
Fact Sheet on Purchasing Low-Mercury Fluorescent Lamps t^E^-f'
The fact sheet, developed by INFORM, Inc., an environmental research organization,
includes recommendations for lamp-purchasing contracts, advice on how to ascertain
that a lamp is low mercury, and other purchasing considerations. Purchasing for
Pollution Prevention: The Lowdown on Mercury in Fluorescent Lamps is available at
http://www.inforrninc.prg/fact_.P3fluprescentiamps.php '<-~*~3~?3i>
Guide To .Disposal And Recycling _Fpr Mercury-Containing Lightbulbs '^3S^
North Carolina P2
Flourescent Bulb - Mercury Conversion Spreadsheet
(XLS format, 1 sheet, 30KB, requires Microsoft Excel Viewer to view)
This spreadsheet calculates the amount of mercury and materials recycled for each
bulb recycled enabling you to track and report on this information.
Back to top
Electronics
Visit the Electronics topic of the Green Purchasing section of the H2E web site.
For software to view files not supported by your browser, visit our application download page
H2E Disclaimer Back to Top
Last Updated: November 13, 2003
URL: http://www.h2e-online.org/tools/univwast.htm
http://www.h2e-online.org/tools/univwast.htm 2/22/04
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x£7 PHARMACY
This Chapter is designed to assist you in identifying high priority chemicals used in the pharmacy that have
been illuminated with the H2E Prioritization Tool and either substituting less toxic chemicals or, in the case
of therapeutic agents, minimizing waste generation . These chemicals are problematic with respect to toxicirv,
regulatory status, and volume.
PRIORITY CHEMICAL USE ELIMINATION/REDUCTION
TIP
Cyclophosphamide
Daunorubicin
Di-(ethylhexyl) phthalate
(DEHP)
Epinephrine
Lindane
Mercury (as Thimerosal™)
or phenylmercuric acetate
Nicotine
Nitroglycerin
Phenol
Propane/isobutane
Selenium
Selenium sulfide
Warfarin sodium
Therapeutic Agent
Therapeutic Agent
Intravenous bags and tubing
Respiratory
therapy/Gastrointestinal tubing
Therapeutic agent
Lice & Scabies treatment
Preservative in nasal sprays,
vaccines, contact lense solutions,
insulin, thermometers.
Therapeutic Agent
Therapeutic Agent
Therapeutic Agent
Preservative
Aerosol propellant
Trace Mineral Supplement
Shampoos
Therapeutic Agent
• Work carefully when
preparing to reduce waste.
• Work carefully when
preparing to reduce waste.
• Substitute non-PVC products.
• Ensure proper management of
expired, unused and partially
used drug.
• Is considered a hazardous
chemical waste when disposed
of. '
• Substitute permethrms,
pyrethrins, crotamiton and/or
fine toothed comb.
• Use single dose vials or
treatment units.
• Work with purchasing
department to identify and
purchase vaccines that do not
contain mercury as a
preservative.
• Send letters to manufacturers,
Group Purchasing
Organizations requesting
mercury- free formulations.
See Mercury Chapter for
examples.
• Reduce waste generation.
• Reduce waste generation.
• Use alternatives for both active
ingredient or preservative,
" Use non-aerosols when
available.
* Reduce Waste generation.
• Use alternative when possible.
• Reduce waste generation.
(,hctnical Mmimixatton Plan
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/'-- WASTE MINIMIZATION AND TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Pharmaceutical waste can be generated anywhere in the hospital due to spills and breakage, but will most
likely occur in the nursing units, surgery suites, emergency room and, most commonly, in the pharmacy itself.
Pharmaceutical waste will occur in the following situations:
• Breakage and spills
• Partially used syringes,1 vials, creams, ointments, liquids
* Compounding residues, especially during IV preparation
• Outdated drugs, including samples, if not properly managed.
• Discontinued, unused preparations
• Unused re-packs (unit dosed items)
» Discontinued in-dated pharmaceuticals
• Patients personal medications
The Pharmacy Department is unique in the area of hazardous chemical waste minimization in that pharmacy
personnel usually do not have the option to select a less hazardous chemical, from a waste perspective, to get
the job done. However, clinicians can be alerted by the pharmacy of its efforts to decrease the most
hazardous chemicals and suggest efficacious substitutes for them. For example, in the treatment of head lice,
malathion, (Ovide®, Medicis®) while still a relatively toxic chemical, is a safer prescription alternative to
lindane.2 Safer still mechanical removal of lice and nits using a fine toothed comb. Usually, in most
applications the therapeutic effectiveness must, of course, take precedence. Generally then, hazardous waste
minimization efforts in the Pharmacy Department must usually focus on waste reduction rather than
substitution of a less toxic item. The following strategies can be employed to accomplish this goal.
Chemotherapy Waste Management
Much confusion exists around proper chemotherapy waste management. Check the waste acceptance
protocols of vendors offering "chemotherapy waste" containers. Most will accept only EMPTY vials,
syringes and IV bags and paraphernalia, often known as "residue or trace" chemotherapy waste. Bulk
chemotherapy waste, e.g. any remaining contents that could be removed by normal means, must be
evaluated as a possible hazardous chemical \vaste and stored in a hard plastic container labeled
"Hazardous Waste." (see the Hazardous Chemical Waste Identification section of this plan). This
waste should be disposed of with other chemically hazardous waste generated by the facility. Set-
Appendix F for identification of U-listed chemotherapy agents.
Professional judgment also suggests that prudent risk management of non-listed but equally toxic
chemotherapy agents would involve inclusion of these items in the chemical hazardous waste stream.
•Again, these wastes stream should not be confused with "red-bag" or infectious hazardous waste.
Improve inventory control.
" Determine min/max order points for each item stocked in the Pharmacy Department ensure that
inventory is purchased in appropriate quantities and used prior to expiration.
• Purchase vials and similar items in the smallest available package size needed based on usage. 11
pharmaceuticals routinely expire due to the size of the carton available, notify your group purchasing
organization and request that they negotiate for more appropriate manufacturer packaging.
1 Syringes containing epinephrme, which are contaminated through patient contact, must be treated as regulated medical
waste under the Blood Borne Pathogens Act.
2 Retail Pharmacy News, August 2000, p. 14.
Chemical Minimization Plan
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• Rotate potentially hazardous waste such as epinephrine syringes out of emergency carts and into more
active areas such as the Emergency Room or Operating Suites prior to outdating (three months or more
dating is recommended for emergency carts).
Outdated Inventory Management.
• Routinely remove outdated pharmaceuticals from patient care areas including clinics through monthly
audits by pharmacy personnel.
• Ship outdated pharmaceuticals to a qualified reverse distributor every three to five months. If outdates
are sorted at the pharmacy, non-returnable items become waste at the facility and must be managed as
such, thereby possibly increasing the hazardous waste generator status of the facility. The EPA
considers an outdated drug to remain a product until the decision is made to discard it. At that time and
place, the product becomes a waste and must be managed as such1-2. Due to the constantly changing
nature of manufacturers' return policies, by shipping all outdates as product to the reverse distributor,
maximum credit can be obtained for the pharmacy and the reverse distributor becomes the waste
generator if the item cannot be returned to the manufacturer. The facility does have the responsibility of
choosing a reverse distributor that understands the EPA regulations and complies with them."'
Mercury Reduction
Where possible, mercury-containing products should be eliminated. In the case of mercury-based
preservatives, the use of single dose vials or treatment units may significantly reduce the number of products
containing mercury. Manufacturers have begun reformulating vaccines and other preparations using other
preservative agents and should be encouraged to continue their efforts. For more information on mercury,
refer to the Mercury Chapter.
I.V Preparation
Whenever possible, waste from I.V. preparation should be kept to a minimum by using the appropriate si/e
stock vial, especially when preparing chemotherapy or other highly toxic preparations. Spillage should be
kept to a minimum by encouraging efficient compounding procedures.
Patient Care Areas
Nursing personnel should be alerted to the dangers of spills and breakage of highly toxic pharmaceuticals.
Med carts and other dosage preparation areas should be kept free of loose vials and ampules to avoid
breakage. When breakage does occur, procedures should be in place to avoid personnel or patient exposure
and to insure appropriate spill cleanup and waste management.
Patients' Personal Medications
Medications brought to the facility by the patient are the personal property of the patient and should be
returned to the patient or the patient's representative at the time of discharge. If the prescription has been
discontinued or dosage changed, information to that effect should be communicated to the patient with
instructions to dispose of the medication at the patient's residence.
1 Letter from Alan Corson, Chief, Waste Characterization Branch, Hazardous and Industrial Waste Division, ()ffice of
Solid Waste, USEPA, to Steven Wittmer, Merck, Sharp and Dohme, May 13,1981.
2 Letter from Sylvia Lowrance, Director Office of Solid Waste, USEPA, to Mark Schulz, Pharmaceutical Services Inc.,
Browning Ferris Industries, May 16, 1991.
•' "Guidelines for Reverse Distributors: Minimum Federal Regulatory Standards" is a publication available from the
Returns Industry Association, 8000 Towers Crescent Drive, Suite 1350, Vienna, Virginia 22182. 703-847-3696,
www.re tumsmdustry.com.
Chemical Mimmi/ntion Plan
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Compliance Incentives: Rewarding Voluntary Discovery, Disclosure, Correction, and Pre... Page 1 of 2
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Compliance Incentives
Rewarding Voluntary Discovery, Disclosure, Correction, and Prevention of
Violations
Did you recently conduct a voluntary
environmental audit of your facility and find
violations?
Do you believe that it is only a matter of time
before a regulatory agency finds out?
If you answer yes to both of these questions,
you might want to take advantage of EPA's
Voluntary Audit Policy. Under this policy, EPA can substantially reduce civil
penalties for those that voluntarily disclose and promptly correct violations that
are identified through self-policing and meet certain other specified conditions,
except in cases involving serious harm to public health or the environment.
In most cases, the "gravity" (punitive) component of the penalty may be fully
eliminated, but EPA would still be able to collect any economic benefit as a
result of non-compliance.
This site provides you with information 'concerning environmental audits and
EPA's compliance incentives for self-auditing. In particular, you will find
information on:
U.S. EPA's Audit Policy
How to Make a Voluntary Disclosure Under EPA's Audit Policy
EPA Region 2 Audit Policy Cases
Q's & A's on EPA Audit Agreements
EPA Region 2 Audit Agreements
EPA Audit Policy Guidances and Resources
Self-Assessment Tools (e.g., compliance checklists, audit protocols)
EPA Region 2 Environmental Auditing Program for Small Businesses
New! Healthcare
Initiative/Audit Policy
Presentations
EPA Region 2's Healthcare
Compliance initiative
EPA's Audit Policy
Attention Small
Businesses!
EPA Region 2 offers free on-site
consultations. Click here to learn
more about our environmental
auditing program
Spotlight on Coiieges
and Universities
EPA Region 2 has embarked
upon a colleges and universities
compliance initiative because we
found that many such institutions
were not aware of their
responsibilities under various
environmental laws. As part of
this initiative, we are
encouraging education
institutions to come forward and
disclose violations under the
Audit Policy. To date, Region 2
has received 48 Audit Policy
disclosures from educational
institutions and has entered into
"campus-wide" audit agreements
with 4 universities.
For more information on this
initiative, visit our college and
university Web site
http://www.epa.gov/cgi-bin/epaprintonly.cgi
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