About U.S. Waste Industries, Inc.

Under RCRA, hazardous waste is a regulated solid waste that is either listed (F-list, K-list, P-list, U-list from specific industrial processes or discarded commercial products) or exhibits a characteristic: ignitability (flash point <140°F), corrosivity (pH <2 or >12.5), reactivity (unstable, explosive), or toxicity (fails TCLP testing for heavy metals or toxic compounds). Regulated under 40 CFR Parts 260-279.

Large Quantity Generators: 90 days. Small Quantity Generators: 180 days (270 days if TSDF is over 200 miles away). Very Small Quantity Generators: no time limit but quantity limits apply (<1,000 kg/month). Exceeding limits requires RCRA storage permit. Containers must be dated, labeled, and stored in compliant accumulation areas.

Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) must submit Biennial Reports by March 1 of even-numbered years covering the previous odd-numbered year's waste generation activities. Reported through EPA's RCRAInfo system. Includes waste types, quantities, management methods, and TSDF destinations. Required under 40 CFR 262.41. Late or missing reports trigger enforcement.

Yes. All generators transporting hazardous waste off-site must obtain an EPA Identification Number before shipping waste. Applied through state environmental agency or EPA Regional Office. Required for manifest preparation, TSDF acceptance, and compliance tracking. Free to obtain but processing takes 4-6 weeks.

The EPA's electronic manifest system (e-Manifest) has been in effect since June 30, 2018. Generators can create manifests electronically or submit paper manifests. 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. Electronic submission is encouraged for faster processing and lower fees.

Pricing depends on waste type and hazard classification, disposal method required (incineration, landfill, treatment), waste quantity and packaging, transportation distance to TSDF, waste profiling and testing needs, and state-specific fees or surcharges. Mixed waste (hazardous + radioactive) or certain regulated materials (PCBs, PFAS) cost more due to limited disposal options.

Generators retain cradle-to-grave liability under RCRA and CERCLA (Superfund) even after waste leaves their facility. Improper disposal triggers EPA enforcement: penalties exceeding tens of thousands of dollars per day per violation (inflation-adjusted annually), facility shutdown orders, criminal charges for knowing violations, Superfund cleanup liability if TSDF contaminates site, and third-party lawsuits for environmental damage.

Yes. Many hazardous materials can be recycled: solvents reclaimed through distillation, waste oil re-refined, metals recovered from sludge or spent catalysts, and used as fuel blending in cement kilns or industrial boilers. Recycling reduces disposal costs and supports sustainability goals but still requires manifest tracking and RCRA compliance.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are persistent chemicals. Certain PFAS (notably PFOA/PFOS and their salts/isomers) are CERCLA hazardous substances with a 1-pound reportable quantity for releases in 24 hours (effective July 8, 2024). Reporting to the National Response Center is required for releases meeting the RQ. Facilities that manufacture or import PFAS may have TSCA Section 8(a)(7) reporting requirements with most submissions due by October 13, 2026. Disposal follows state-specific requirements and specialty treatment options.

Yes. 24/7 emergency dispatch available at 800-727-9796. Crews mobilize within hours for spills, container failures, transportation accidents, or unknown material discovery. Services include containment, recovery, waste characterization, CERCLA reporting support, and complete cleanup documentation.