How are you currently managing your chemical waste such as: expired medications, creams, gels, etc.?
If you are unsure or know that you are not managing those waste products properly, you are not alone!!! In the old days we would throw them in the trash or flush down the toilet. What has been discovered is that a lot of those chemicals do not break down and eventually make their way into our local water ways. The Environmental Protection Agency now regulates how you treat, store and or dispose of those chemical wastes. Depending on how much waste you generate will determine what set of regulations need to be followed and the amount of your annual registration fee. If you generate less than 100kg/month no EPA registration is needed. This is referred to as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG)
Most physician practices will be categorized as a VSQG!!
- Generate less than 100kg/month
- Store no more than 1000kg at a time
- Waste must not be stored near any drains
- Must be labeled properly with the words HAZARDOUS WASTE, along with the associated hazard.
- Retain records on the type and quantity of the waste you generate with dates of disposal
- No annual fee to the EPA (check with your state’s environmental agency for other possible fees).
- Ask your current biohazardous waste vendor if they handle hazardous chemical wastes. They should be able to set you up with everything needed.
For more information on waste generator classification, please visit your state’s environmental website or: https://www.epa.gov/hwgenerators/hazardous-waste-generator-regulatory-summary
If you would like more clarification or need further assistance, please let me know!!
Thanks
Matt