Hazardous waste compliance and enforcement are critical components of environmental protection. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulates hazardous waste handling, and it is essential for facilities to understand their obligations. In this article, we will delve into the world of hazardous waste compliance and enforcement, exploring the regulations, requirements, and best practices for facilities that generate, transport, or store hazardous waste.
Hazardous waste is identified in one of two ways: either by being listed in Title 40, Part 261 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations or by exhibiting one or more characteristics such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has adopted portions of the federal regulations into Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), also known as the Hazardous Waste Rule.
Hazardous waste generators are broken into three categories based on the quantity of hazardous waste generated per month:
Each category has specific requirements and regulations that must be followed to ensure compliance.
Some of the key requirements for hazardous waste generators include:
To ensure compliance with hazardous waste regulations, facilities should:
Hazardous waste compliance and enforcement are critical components of environmental protection. Facilities that generate, transport, or store hazardous waste must understand their obligations and follow the regulations to ensure compliance. By following the requirements and best practices outlined in this article, facilities can minimize their environmental impact and ensure a safer and healthier environment for everyone. For more information on hazardous waste compliance and enforcement, visit the Florida Department of Environmental Protection website or contact your local DEP district office.
