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Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste management is one of the more significant compliance areas for retailers.  Compliance can be difficult as hazardous waste regulations (at the federal level, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act or RCRA) were not designed for retail, requirements can vary by state, and some hazardous waste classifications seem to defy common sense. Retailers are responsible of identifying and properly handling, which includes labeling, storage, shipping, tracking, and training requirements, waste that is considered hazardous. This includes unsalable products that may be broken, damaged, expired or otherwise cannot be sold or used and therefore might be considered hazardous waste under federal or state regulations. Depending on the jurisdiction, this can include items such as chemicals, cleaning products, personal care products and pharmaceuticals. Some operational waste such as used batteries, used oil, cleaning products, may also be considered hazardous waste.  

Hazardous Waste Resources

Introductory Resources

Store Departments

Overview of environmental requirements that apply in different retail departments.

Hazardous Waste Regulations

Informs retailers on the proper management and disposal or recycling of hazardous and universal wastes.

State Variations

Haz Waste Generator Improvement Rule Matrix

Detailed matrix that tracks the state implementation of the Hazardous Waste Generator Improvement Rule.

Variations In Hazardous Waste Generator Reporting

Overview of variations in hazardous waste reporting by state for routine periodic reporting and requirements for submission of manifests.

Hazardous Waste Variations by State Matrix

State variations in haz waste regulations under RCRA for key areas including haz waste characteristics, generator categories, and universal waste.

Pharm Rule State Implementation Matrix

Compliance matrix that tracks pharmaceutical waste legislation across the United States.

Aerosols As Universal Waste Rule Tracking Matrix

Matrix tracking the implementation of states listing aerosol cans as universal waste and the effective date.

Other Resources

eWaste Matrix

Overview of state legislation with requirements for retailers on managing waste electronic products or ewaste.

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act

Details on how FIFRA applies to retail including the management, enforcement and disposal of pesticides.

Refrigerant Fact Sheet

Covers air regulations and management requirements that apply in retail covering refrigeration and A/C equipment, ammonia refrigeration systems.

Hazardous Waste eLearning for Retailers

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  • Hazardous Waste

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