As reported by Texas Woman’s University (TWU) in their article, “Hazardous/Regulated Waste”, hazardous waste disposal is strictly regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), ensuring proper “cradle-to-grave” management of hazardous materials. Enforced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and delegated to state agencies like the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), these regulations require proper documentation, classification, and disposal of hazardous waste.
Determining Hazardous Waste
A material is classified as hazardous if it meets any of the following criteria:
- Listed by the EPA as hazardous waste.
- Mixture containing hazardous components above regulatory limits.
- Possesses hazardous characteristics, such as:
- Ignitability (flashpoint <140°F, flammable).
- Corrosivity (pH ≤2 or ≥12.5).
- Toxicity (contains EPA-listed chemicals).
- Reactivity (explosive, reacts violently with air or water).
Proper Handling & Disposal
Hazardous and regulated waste must be:
- Stored in labeled, approved containers and kept sealed unless actively adding waste.
- Segregated by hazard class for safe storage.
- Disposed of through licensed waste facilities within 180 days of accumulation.
- Tracked with proper documentation to ensure compliance.
Electronics & Regulated Waste
Electronics often fail the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test, making them hazardous waste due to solder and circuit board components. However, if sent for recycling or reclamation, certain hazardous waste regulations may not apply.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of Texas Woman’s University (TWU).
