HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL

Industrial facilities generate hazardous waste as a byproduct of manufacturing, chemical processing, equipment maintenance, and laboratory operations. Without compliant disposal, these materials create serious risks:

Regulatory Compliance Requirements:

EPA and state agencies require detailed tracking from generation through disposal. Facilities retain cradle-to-grave liability under RCRA, meaning proper determination, labeling, storage, and manifest documentation are critical. Missing manifests, incorrect waste codes, or improper on-site management trigger enforcement actions, fines, and potential facility shutdowns.

Environmental Liability:

Hazardous waste that leaches into soil or groundwater creates long-term cleanup obligations under CERCLA (Superfund). Generators remain liable even after waste leaves their property if disposal was improper.

Worker Safety: Exposure to corrosive acids, toxic solvents, reactive chemicals, or heavy metals causes injuries, illnesses, and OSHA violations. Proper disposal protects your workforce and reduces insurance claims.

Operational Disruptions:

Accumulated hazardous waste consumes storage space, blocks production areas, and creates fire or explosion risks. Regular disposal maintains operational flow and safety.

Compliance Deadlines:

Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) must submit Biennial Hazardous Waste Reports by March 1 of each even-numbered year, covering the previous odd-numbered year. Facilities that manufacture or import PFAS may have TSCA Section 8(a)(7) reporting requirements with most submissions due by October 13, 2026 (small businesses importing PFAS in articles: April 13, 2027). Missing deadlines triggers enforcement.

Facilities need reliable disposal partners who provide complete documentation, understand changing regulations, and respond quickly when storage limits are reached or emergencies occur.

U.S. Waste Industries manages all EPA-defined hazardous waste categories across industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities:

Corrosive Materials Acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric), alkaline solutions, battery acid, cleaning agents, metal finishing baths. pH below 2 or above 12.5. Causes tissue damage and corrodes metal containers.

Toxic Substances Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, arsenic), pesticides, herbicides, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), cyanides, certain solvents. Fail TCLP testing, causing groundwater contamination.

Ignitable Waste Solvents (acetone, methanol, xylene), paint thinners, degreasers, petroleum products, alcohols, aerosol cans. Flash point below 140°F. Fire and explosion hazards during storage or transport.

Reactive Waste Oxidizers, peroxides, compressed gases, cyanide or sulfide-bearing waste, water-reactive chemicals. Unstable materials that explode, produce toxic gases, or react violently when mixed.

PFAS-Contaminated Materials Certain PFAS (notably PFOA/PFOS and their salts/isomers) are CERCLA hazardous substances with a 1-pound reportable quantity. Materials include aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), contaminated soil, landfill leachate, and wastewater treatment sludge.

Asbestos-Containing Materials Friable and non-friable asbestos from insulation, floor tiles, roofing, pipe wrap, fireproofing. Requires NESHAP-compliant handling and specialized landfill disposal.

Universal Waste Federal categories include batteries (lithium-ion, lead-acid, nickel-cadmium), fluorescent bulbs, mercury devices, and pesticides. Some states have expanded Universal Waste programs to include additional items like e-waste and solar panels—check your state requirements. Simplified regulations but still require proper management.

Biological and Medical Waste Medical waste is primarily regulated at the state level. Most states require treatment (incineration, autoclaving, or alternative methods) before disposal. Medical waste is only RCRA hazardous waste when it is listed or exhibits a characteristic (such as toxic chemotherapy waste). We coordinate compliant treatment and disposal per your state's medical waste regulations.

Lab Packs Mixed small-quantity chemicals from laboratories, research facilities, schools. Requires segregation by compatibility and DOT packaging.

Unknown or Unidentified Chemicals Unlabeled containers, deteriorated materials, legacy chemicals from facility acquisitions. Field testing and laboratory analysis determines proper classification.

We handle one-time cleanouts, recurring pickups, emergency removals, and facility closure projects. All waste is profiled, manifested, and tracked through final disposal with complete documentation.

U.S. Waste manages the complete disposal lifecycle with full regulatory compliance support:

Step 1: Waste Identification and Characterization

Our team evaluates your waste streams through visual inspection, process knowledge review, and Safety Data Sheet analysis. We determine applicable EPA hazardous waste codes (e.g., D001, F003), assign proper shipping names, and identify any state-specific requirements. Generator knowledge is documented per 40 CFR 262.11.

Step 2: Waste Profiling and Testing

Materials requiring laboratory analysis are sampled for TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure), ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or other parameters. We coordinate testing with certified labs and obtain TSDF approval before scheduling pickup.

Step 3: Packaging and Labeling

Waste is packaged in DOT-approved containers (drums, lab packs, bulk tanks, super sacks) meeting 49 CFR 173 requirements. Each container receives compliant hazard labels, EPA waste codes, accumulation start dates, and facility identification.

Step 4: Manifest Preparation

We prepare EPA Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifests (EPA Form 8700-22) or electronic e-Manifests documenting waste description, quantity, generator information, transporter details, and destination TSDF. The EPA e-Manifest system has been in effect since June 30, 2018. Generators may use electronic or paper manifests; however, LQGs and SQGs must be registered in the e-Manifest system to access final signed copies, as receiving facilities are no longer required to mail paper manifests.

Step 5: DOT-Compliant Transportation

Waste is transported by licensed hazmat carriers following 49 CFR routing, placarding, and shipping paper requirements. Our logistics network ensures safe, efficient movement to authorized facilities nationwide.

Step 6: Treatment and Disposal

TSDFs receive the waste, verify manifest accuracy, and perform final treatment (incineration, neutralization, stabilization, or landfill disposal). When Land Disposal Restrictions apply, the generator prepares the required LDR notice and/or certification and submits it with the initial shipment to the receiving TSDF, in accordance with 40 CFR Part 268.

Step 7: Documentation and Recordkeeping

You receive signed manifests confirming TSDF receipt, additional Certificates of Disposal documenting final treatment, and waste tracking reports for compliance audits. Records should be retained for at least 3 years (5 years recommended, or longer if required by state or if enforcement is ongoing).

All services include 24/7 emergency support, spill response capability, and regulatory guidance for changing EPA requirements.

Manufacturing

Chemical processing, automotive production, metal fabrication, electronics assembly. Waste streams: spent solvents, metal finishing sludge, paint waste, degreasing agents, contaminated oils, PCB-containing equipment.

Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences 

Drug manufacturing, research labs, biotech facilities, clinical operations. Waste streams: expired APIs, lab packs, biological waste, chemotherapy agents, solvent waste, cleaning validation residues.

Utilities and Power Generation 

Coal, natural gas, nuclear, solar, biomass facilities. Waste streams: transformer oil (PCBs), fly ash, bottom ash, scrubber sludge, mercury-containing devices, decommissioned solar panels.

Aerospace and Defense 

Aircraft maintenance, weapons systems, military installations. Waste streams: hydraulic fluids, jet fuel, paint strippers, solvents, ammunition waste, contaminated PPE, explosive materials.

Pulp and Paper Mills 

Paper production, tissue manufacturing, packaging operations. Waste streams: black liquor, lime mud, caustic solutions, bleaching chemicals, wastewater treatment sludge, boiler ash.

Metal Finishing and Plating 

Electroplating, anodizing, powder coating, galvanizing. Waste streams: chromium sludge, cyanide solutions, acid baths, alkaline cleaners, heavy metal-bearing wastewater.

Automotive Service and Repair 

Dealerships, repair shops, fleet maintenance. Waste streams: used oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, batteries, oil filters, solvent-contaminated rags, paint booth waste.

Construction and Demolition 

Building renovation, facility decommissioning, infrastructure projects. Waste streams: asbestos-containing materials, lead paint debris, contaminated soil, mercury switches, PCB ballasts.

Food and Beverage Processing

Production facilities, bottling plants, commercial kitchens. Waste streams: cleaning chemicals, refrigerants, ammonia solutions, contaminated wastewater, equipment degreasing waste.

Universities and Research Institutions

Teaching labs, research facilities, medical schools. Waste streams: chemical lab packs, biological waste, mercury compounds, radioactive materials, expired reagents.

Petrochemical and Refining

Oil refineries, chemical plants, pipeline operations. Waste streams: tank bottom sludge, spent catalysts, process residues, oily water, contaminated soil, benzene-containing waste.

Mining and Mineral Processing

Ore extraction, metal recovery, aggregate production. Waste streams: acid mine drainage, tailings pond sludge, heavy metal solutions, cyanide heap leach waste.

Each industry faces unique regulatory requirements. Our team provides compliance guidance specific to your operations, waste streams, and applicable EPA, OSHA, and DOT standards.

Hazardous waste generators must comply with federal EPA regulations, state environmental agency rules, and DOT transportation requirements:

EPA Identification Number

All hazardous waste generators must obtain an EPA ID number before transporting waste off-site. Application submitted through the state environmental agency or the EPA Regional Office. Required for manifest preparation and TSDF acceptance.

Generator Status Determination

Facilities are classified as Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG), Small Quantity Generator (SQG), or Large Quantity Generator (LQG) based on monthly waste volumes. Status determines storage time limits, manifest requirements, and reporting obligations.

Waste Accumulation Time Limits

LQGs: 90 days maximum on-site storage 

SQGs: 180 days (or 270 days if TSDF is >200 miles away) 

VSQGs: No time limit, but quantity limits apply 

Exceeding time limits requires an RCRA storage permit and triggers enforcement.

Manifest Requirements

EPA Form 8700-22 (Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest) tracks waste from the generator through the transporter to the TSDF. The e-Manifest system has been in effect since June 30, 2018. As of January 22, 2025, LQGs and SQGs can no longer receive paper copies by mail—they must access final signed manifests through the e-Manifest system. Registration is required. Generators must retain signed manifests for at least 3 years (5 years recommended).

Biennial Hazardous Waste Reports

LQGs must submit detailed waste generation reports by March 1 of even-numbered years covering the previous odd-numbered year. Reported via EPA's RCRAInfo system. Late submission triggers penalties.

Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR)

Hazardous waste cannot be landfilled without meeting treatment standards under 40 CFR 268. Most waste requires incineration, stabilization, or other treatment before final disposal. LDR notices and certifications must be provided to the receiving TSDF as required.

DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR)

Transportation requires proper shipping names, hazard classes, packaging groups, labels, placards, and shipping papers. Personnel must complete DOT hazmat training every 3 years.

TSCA PCB Regulations

Materials containing ≥50 ppm PCBs require specialized disposal at TSCA-approved facilities under 40 CFR Part 761. Annual reports are required for PCB disposal activities. Subject to different manifest and recordkeeping requirements than RCRA waste.

PFAS Reporting Requirements

CERCLA: Certain PFAS (notably PFOA/PFOS and their salts/isomers) are CERCLA hazardous substances with a reportable quantity of 1 pound released in 24 hours. Reporting to the National Response Center is required for releases meeting the RQ (effective July 8, 2024).

TSCA Section 8(a)(7): Facilities that manufacture or import PFAS (including in articles) may have reporting requirements with most submissions due by October 13, 2026 (small businesses importing PFAS in articles: April 13, 2027).

OSHA Training Requirements

Workers handling hazardous waste must complete HAZWOPER training (29 CFR 1910.120):

• 40-hour initial training for site workers 
• 8-hour annual refresher 
• Site-specific training for facility operations 

State-Specific Requirements

Many states impose regulations beyond federal EPA rules, including additional waste codes, shorter accumulation periods, facility-specific permits, and annual fee requirements. State environmental agencies conduct inspections and enforcement.

U.S. Waste Industries provides complete documentation supporting compliance: approved waste profiles, signed manifests, additional Certificates of Disposal, training records coordination, and regulatory updates on changing EPA requirements.

Abandoned Site Remediation – South Carolina

Challenge: Bank-foreclosed 2-acre property contained 1,000+ deteriorating containers with unknown chemicals, including ammonia, acids, flammables, and corrosives. EPA on-site supervision required. The site prevented the property sale and created environmental liability.

Solution: Field testing and certified laboratory analysis characterized all waste. Materials repackaged into DOT-approved containers. Coordinated with EPA and state regulators throughout the process. Removed 1,100 yards of debris (55 truckloads) to the disposal facility.

Results: Project completed in 30 days. Site certified clean by regulatory authorities. Property transferred from liability to asset on the bank balance sheet. Full compliance was maintained throughout the project.

Emergency Spill Response – I-95 Highway, South Carolina

Challenge: A tractor-trailer rollover at 6 PM released 300 gallons of diesel fuel and 50 gallons of oil into an environmentally sensitive creek. Required immediate containment and highway clearance.

Solution: Five-person emergency crew dispatched with specialized equipment (petroleum absorbent pads, excavators, containment booms). Fuel and oil were recovered from the creek and the surrounding landscape. Contaminated materials are placed in specialized containers. Coordinated with law enforcement and environmental officials.

Results: Crew on-site within hours. Cleanup completed by 9 AM the next morning (15-hour response). Creek and highway fully restored. All waste is properly manifested and transported to a permitted facility. No secondary contamination.

Industrial facilities face hazardous waste emergencies requiring immediate response: chemical spills, container failures, transportation accidents, equipment leaks, fire damage, or discovery of unknown materials.

U.S. Waste Industries provides 24/7 emergency hazardous waste services nationwide:

Immediate Dispatch:

Crews mobilize within hours with specialized equipment—vacuum trucks, absorbent materials, containment booms, pumps, and DOT-approved containers.

Spill Containment and Recovery:

Rapid deployment prevents contamination spread. Materials recovered using vacuum extraction, absorbent pads, or manual collection depending on waste characteristics.

CERCLA Reporting Support:

Releases of certain PFAS (PFOA/PFOS and their salts/isomers) or other CERCLA hazardous substances meeting Reportable Quantities require National Response Center notification. We assist with proper reporting and documentation under CERCLA Section 103 (PFOA/PFOS effective July 8, 2024).

On-Site Assessment:

HAZWOPER-trained technicians evaluate incident scope, identify materials involved, determine hazard levels, and develop safe cleanup approach.

Waste Characterization:

Unknown materials are tested through field screening (pH, oxidizer detection, flammability) and laboratory analysis when needed for proper classification.

Regulatory Coordination:

Direct communication with EPA, state environmental agencies, fire departments, and local authorities throughout emergency response.

Complete Documentation:

Chain-of-custody tracking, manifests, additional disposal certificates, incident reports, and photographic documentation for insurance claims and regulatory compliance.

Post-Incident Support:

Contaminated soil removal, equipment decontamination, follow-up monitoring, and long-term remediation planning if needed.

Emergency services include chemical spills, petroleum releases, drum failures, tank leaks, transportation accidents, facility fires involving hazardous materials, and discovery of abandoned waste.

Available 24/7/365. Call 800-727-9796 for immediate emergency dispatch.

Service-Driven: Full-Service Expertise

HAZWOPER-trained field personnel managing all aspects of hazardous waste disposal from identification through final treatment. Direct relationships with RCRA-permitted TSDFs nationwide providing access to incineration, fuel blending, deep well injection, stabilization, and specialty treatment. DOT-licensed hazmat carriers following 49 CFR requirements for packaging, labeling, placarding, and shipping. Active monitoring of EPA rule changes including PFAS regulations, Universal Waste expansions, and e-Manifest updates.

Client-Focused: Direct Access and Fast Response

Family-owned business with 25+ years in environmental services. Real people answer phones 7 AM–5 PM weekdays—no automated systems. 24/7 emergency hotline: 800-727-9796 with crews dispatching within hours for spills, accidents, or urgent waste removal. Single vendor managing identification, testing, packaging, transportation, and disposal—eliminates coordination across multiple contractors.

Guaranteed Compliance: Inspection-Ready Documentation

Every job includes signed EPA manifests, Certificates of Disposal, waste profile approvals, and regulatory compliance records. Files stay audit-ready for EPA inspections, Biennial Reports, and insurance requirements. Guidance provided for TSCA filings, generator status determination, and regulatory reporting. $21 million pollution and liability insurance coverage protects your facility.