Hazardous waste containers are the most common unit used to store and transport hazardous waste because they are relatively cheap and easy to handle compared to tanks and surface impoundments. Also, containers are a good option for hazardous waste handlers who want to store, transport, and dispose of hazardous waste without changing the unit.
Below are some tips to make sure your containers comply with RCRA container management regulations….
- Ensure containers are sturdy and strong enough to withstand side or bottom shock, when full, without leaking waste. Rust, other corrosion, or dents in seam areas indicate a container may not be strong enough to use.
- Ensure that a full container will not release waste even when dropped or overturned. To meet this requirement, any containers that hold free liquid must be liquid-tight, even when overturned.
- Is the container lid easily closable for employees? The additional cost of spring-loaded snap rings, funnels with valves, or similar equipment may be a cost-effective means of ensuring containers are closed.
- Place the label on the side of the container to prevent waste spills from destroying it. To protect labels, cover them with clear packing tape or a clear finish or enclose them in a plastic pouch designed for that purpose.
- For quick identification, put all marks and labels on the same side of the container.
- Before shipping, check to make sure containers and labels meet DOT requirements for that waste.
- Hang your container inspection log on a clipboard in the storage area. When it is full, file it in your permanent records for at least 3 years.
- When storing an empty container outside, place it on its side to prevent accumulation of rainwater and melting snow.
- Snow can fill curbed outdoor storage areas; remove it when sidewalks are shoveled.
- A rule of thumb to differentiate satellite accumulation containers from storage containers: Satellite accumulation containers will generally be either emptied into another container or moved to a storage area when full, while storage containers will generally be shipped off-site as is when full.
- You may choose to place a date on a satellite accumulation container when you begin to use it to help you track how quickly the waste is generated. If you do, clearly identify the container as a satellite accumulation container to avoid confusing it with a storage container.
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