Identify
The first step in managing your hazardous waste is determining each type generated within your facility. It is important to define what qualifies as hazardous waste, as well as the different streams currently in need of compliance support.
Count
You will be required to calculate the total weight of all hazardous waste produced at your facility on a monthly basis. The EPA has created three different categories for you to place your business into, including:
- Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) — These generators create 1,000 kilograms or more a month of hazardous waste (more than 2200 pounds!). Companies that generate 100 kilograms or more monthly of acute spill residue or soil or create more than one kilogram per month of acute hazardous waste (considered very hazardous) can also qualify as LGQs.
- Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) — Companies that generate between 100 and 1,100 kilograms per month will fall into the middle category.
- Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) — These businesses produce very little hazardous waste per month. To qualify as a VSQG, your outfit will need to produce 100 kilograms or less per month of hazardous waste, or less than 100 kilograms per month of acute spill residue or soil, or one kilogram or less per month of acute hazardous waste.
The category your operation falls into will play a large role in the regulations and fees levied against your facility. Keep in mind that the State of California also requires generators to pay additional state taxes based on the tons of hazardous waste produced annually. Any company that generates five tons or more of waste will be required to register.
Notify
Once you have calculated your monthly and annual output of hazardous waste, the next step is to notify the Environmental Protection Agency of your activities.
Your state agency can also be contacted if that state is authorized to operate its own hazardous waste program. If you meet the criteria for hazardous waste, it will be essential to fill out EPA Form 8700-12 to receive an EPA Identification Number.
Are you unsure how to identify, calculate, and manage your hazardous waste? Contact us today for complete assistance!
Manage
Upon acceptance and approval through the EPA, your company will be tasked with proper waste management according to all applicable regulations. It is important to ensure you have properly identified your waste stream to comply with all specialty regulations for differing types of waste.
The type of waste generated and the type of facility utilized will play a role in determining your responsibility. Batteries, pesticides, and other chemicals will have very different requirements compared to pharmaceuticals, sharps containers, and so on. If you need assistance, HTS Environmental Services specializes in hazardous waste support!
Transport
You will be required to hire on a company or transport the waste on your own. Hazardous waste transportation requires drivers to abide by all local and federal laws in addition to applicable EPA regulations. You will also need to rely on the Hazardous Waste Manifest System to receive the forms, reports, and procedures needed to properly track all waste from your facility to its disposal.
Our team specializes in hazardous waste transportation across Southern California, and we can help you create a cost-effective system to handle all of your waste management needs.
Recycle, Treat, & Dispose
Some facilities may be able to recycle their hazardous waste on-site without the need for a permit or transportation services. As long as all local and federal regulations are met, generators can also treat their waste on-site to make the waste less hazardous for disposal. If you fall outside of these acceptable ranges, your business will need to abide by Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF) to handle your hazardous waste. We also offer support and training for spills, audits, compliance issues, emergencies, and more.
