In logo   Sustainability Update 
August, 2013
Sustainability Update Vol 2, No 9

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In this issue:
New EPA Rules for Rags
Containers Exempt from Hazardous Waste Regulations
Now Hiring!
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We Want to Hear from You!
Do you have questions about specific regulations, news, or issues you are facing regarding waste management?  Send us an email with your question to: [email protected]. If it's chosen for publication in an upcoming issue of Sustainability Update, you'll get a Starbucks gift card -- and either way, you'll get your question answered!
 
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News to Support Your Sustainability Program
Recycle. Reuse. Recover. That's the goal for hazardous waste today -- and we're here to keep you informed of breaking news selected to help with your sustainability efforts.
New EPA Rules Exempt Some Solvent-Contaminated Rags
Rags The Federal EPA has issued new rules conditionally exempting many solvent-contaminated rags from certain regulations. Under the new guideline, some rags are excluded from the definition of solid or hazardous waste. Many solvent contaminated wipes that are cleaned and reused are excluded from the definition of solid waste, and many solvent contaminated rags that are disposed of are excluded from the definition of hazardous waste.
 
The EPA Summary Chart provides details on what solvents are included in the exemption, what types of rags are included, and proper management requirements to meet the exemptions. It is important to note that generators are still required to determine state and local regulatory requirements in regards to any waste generated. Some states may continue to regulate solvent-contaminated rags as Non-RCRA hazardous waste. Please check with your local and state agency regulations prior to taking advantage of these new Federal rules. 
Exempting Containers from Hazardous Waste Regulations
CA state seal The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in California, encourages users of hazardous waste drums to recycle them for re-use, and in support of that, provides for an exemption for "empty" containers. This exemption allows for re-use or recycling of all containers that are greater than 5 gallons in size. Containers equal to or less than 5 gallons are automatically exempt and can be thrown away once they meet the "empty" standard. In order for a container to be classified as "empty" and fulfill exemption rules, it must meet one of these three criteria:
  • Containers that held pourable materials will be considered empty when: there is no longer a continuous stream of material coming from the opening when the container is held in any orientation.
  • Containers that hold non-pourable materials will be considered empty when: no hazardous material shall remain in the container that can feasibly be removed by physical methods, including scraping and chipping, but not rinsing.
  • Containers holding acute or extremely hazardous materials will be considered empty when: the container has been triple-rinsed using a solvent capable of removing the material, or cleaning by another method which is proven to achieve equivalent removal to triple rinsing. This may require formal permitting by the DTSC or CUPA.

If containers, of any size, do not meet the "empty" definition, they must be handled as hazardous waste. There are also a number of management practices that must be followed in order to retain the exemption including allowing a generator to recycle the containers onsite to collect waste oil or other compatible wastes or products.

 

While it's great to recycle these containers, and there is the exemption for doing so, there are many nuances to this regulation. In order to ensure you are in compliance, please read the full description. And of course, you are always welcome to contact your Ingenium representative for assistance.

Now Hiring
 
Chemical Specialist
Ingenium is looking for a motivated team player to help service our client's needs out of the Milpitas, California office.  The position requires a minimum of a 4 year college degree in science or equivalent industry experience, and a class B commercial drivers license with air brake and hazardous materials endorsed.  Benefits include flexible hours, full medical and dental ,and vacation and sick pay.  

Hazardous Materials/Environmental Services Technicians    Ingenium is also looking for two motivated team players, one each for our Los Angeles/Inland Empire and Milpitas territories. The position requires 0-2 years in the industry, and current OSHA 40-hour and DOT Hazardous Materials Handler Certifications are preferred.

Account Managers 
Ingenium also has two positions available for account managers, one for the San Diego area and one for Los Angeles/Inland Empire. The primary focus of this position is to increase sales through cold calling and face-to-face meetings.


Ingenium is growing! If you or anyone you know might be interested in these positions, full details can be found on the

Let Us Help Someone You Know
If you know of a fellow professional who has waste management needs or questions, please feel free to tell them about Ingenium and have them contact Heather at [email protected].  
 
Together we will create a more sustainable world!

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