How Do I Properly Dispose Of Hazardous
Waste?
In general the disposal of hazardous wastes must
be handled through a network of licensed hazardous waste
transportation, storage, treatment, and disposal facilities.
The regulations for hazardous wastes apply from
"cradle to grave." In other words you are responsible for any
hazardous wastes you produce from the time they are generated until
the time they are properly and legally disposed.
The best way to ensure that you are legal from
“cradle to grave” is to follow the handling and storage laws at your
business and contract with a reputable hazardous waste company that
can provide documentation and proof of proper disposal.
The disposal options available to you, as a
business, depend on how much waste you have.
Larger companies with large amounts of hazardous
waste are highly regulated by Federal and State law. Small
businesses often generate similar types of wastes but obviously in
much smaller quantities. One big advantage of having smaller
quantities is that the laws allow you much more flexibility in
managing your waste. A disadvantage is that it can be harder to get
affordable disposal service.
In general, the more hazardous waste you produce
(generate) the more you are regulated. You must first look at all of
the waste materials you dispose of and make a determination using
the federal criteria as to which are regulated hazardous wastes.
Based on that amount you will be classified as either a Large
Quantity Generator (LQG), a Small Quantity Generator (SQG), or a
Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG).
CESQG's have the most flexibility in their waste
disposal options however anyone handling or supplying chemicals or
hazardous substances must comply with other related safety oriented
regulations.
