RCRA

RCRA is administered by the EPA, and many states run authorised programs that can be stricter. The central idea is cradle-to-grave management: the generator of a hazardous waste stays responsible for it, even after it leaves the site, and tracking paperwork follows each shipment.

The first step is deciding whether a waste is hazardous. A waste can be listed by name or can be hazardous because it shows a characteristic such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity or toxicity. This decision is the generator's job, and it often uses knowledge of the process and information from the SDS.

Generators are grouped by the amount of hazardous waste they produce in a month, and the group determines how long waste may be stored on site, what training is required and what plans must be in place. Facilities that treat, store or dispose of waste face permit requirements. Transporters have their own duties.

A manifest is the shipping document that tracks waste to its final destination. The generator keeps copies and must follow up if confirmation does not return. Containers must be labelled, kept closed, and inspected on a regular schedule.

Do not confuse RCRA with CERCLA. RCRA governs ongoing waste handling, while CERCLA covers cleanup of past contamination and release reporting.