Throughout the coming weeks we will have several posts about container standards and management. Containers storing hazardous waste at permitted facilities are subject to the general facility standards as well as the specific container standards of 40 CFR 264/265.
When the EPA promulgated the unit-specific requirements (container standards), for hazardous waste containers, the Agency emphasized that although mismanagement of containers has caused some of the worst contamination, relatively few regulations would be needed to eliminate most of the problems. Today, I will be writing about some of the basics you need to know in order to maximize your container management efficiency.
To start, it is vital to note that all containers storing hazardous waste must comply with both state regulations and those regulations set forth by the federal government in 40 CFR.
That said, the word container is a bit non-specific. At Heritage, we teach that a container is any portable device in which a material is stored, transported, treated, disposed of, or otherwise handled. Now you may be thinking, “That definition is pretty non-specific too.” That is true. The definition is intentionally broad so that it can encompass all the different types of portable devices that may be used to handle hazardous waste, such as:
- Drums,
- Pails,
- Tankers, or
- Railcars, among possible others.
After looking into what items are available in which to store hazardous waste, we need to determine the definition of “storage.” Storing hazardous waste means holding it for a temporary period until it is treated, disposed of, or moved elsewhere. Again, this definition is intentionally broad in order to include any situation in which hazardous waste is held for any period of time.
It is important to remember that this information may not be all-inclusive and it is always best to check 40 CFR and your state regulations for the most up-to-date information. Keep checking the blog for future posts about container design and compatibility.
More News From Heritage
-
5/31/23
Habitat for Humanity 2023
Heritage hosted our 13th annual Habitat for Humanity build this month, partnering with over70 employees from various THG companies.
-
5/30/23
Employee Spotlight: Uncovering Opportunity Through Innovation and Creative Problem Solving
Bill Garrison, Director of Strategic Solutions, shares how the Heritage family leverages R&D to identify wastestream opportunities for customers.
-
5/19/23
Working with Established Partners: Field Chemists at Heritage
Learn how our field chemists build trust and relationships within their own teams and with customers.
-
5/10/23
Safety Spotlight: Keeping Employees Safe with Updated Safety Programs
Learn more about our 6Safety Program and recent changes that help to protect the Heritage family.
-
4/10/23
Heritage holds Earth Day HHW collection in East Liverpool for 25th year
-
3/29/23
Employee Spotlight: Growing and Empowering the Heritage Family
Sue Kieweg, Corporate Recruiting Manager, describes the culture of the Heritage family and how it enables the success of our teams.
-
2/21/23
Step Up to the Plate: An Oral History of the HIT Program
As we celebrate the Heritage core value of “Problem Solving Through Innovation,” learn more about the Heritage Innovation Team program.
-
2/8/23
Heritage East Liverpool Facility Announces 2023 Environmental Grant Program
