Scope
Provides safe practices, procedures and policies for the Disposal of universal wastes. Complies with The Universal Waste Rule [Colorado Hazardous Waste Regulations 6 CCR 1007-3 Part 273]. Managing wastes as universal wastes is most beneficial to small and large quantity generators of hazardous waste, or conditionally exempt small quantity generators that would otherwise be small quantity generators if they did not manage some of their wastes as universal wastes.
1.0 Definitions
1.1 Universal Waste
The Universal Waste Rule includes certain hazardous wastes that are commonly generated by UCAR divisions and programs.
Universal Wastes include:
- batteries
- pesticides
- mercury-containing devices
- mercury-containing lighting wastes
- aerosol cans
- electronic devices and components
1.2 Universal Waste Handlers
Under the Universal Waste Rule, persons who generate or accumulate universal wastes are considered “handlers” of universal waste. A small quantity handler of universal waste is one who does not accumulate more than 5,000 kilograms of universal at any one time. A large quantity handler of universal waste is a handler of universal waste who accumulates 5,000 kilograms or more of universal waste.
2.0 Responsibilities
2.1 Functional Supervisor
Assures that all employees are familiar with Universal waste procedures. Requires employees be trained to properly manage Universal wastes before those are handed to HESS.
2.2 UCAR Health, Environment and Safety Services (HESS) Manager
Assure Small Quantity handler limits are not exceeded and recycle or dispose of Universal wastes in a manner to prevent contamination of the environment. Properly categorize wastes as Hazardous or Universal.
2.3 Employees
Comply with Universal waste procedures and safe practices as described by postings and on collection containers.
3.0 Procedures
3.1 Universal Waste Batteries
3.1.1 Batteries need to be brought to Designated Locations.
3.1.2
Designated Locations have containers to store batteries. Each container for collecting waste batteries must be labeled with any one of the following phrases: “Universal Waste – Battery(ies),” or “Waste Battery(ies),” or “Used Battery(ies)” and collection start date.
3.1.3 All battery terminals must be taped with clear tape or whole battery needs to be placed into Ziploc bag before placing into container.
3.1.4 When battery collecting containers become full notify HESS to obtain a replacement container.
3.1.5 HESS: pickup full containers and move to Designated Storage Locations.
3.1.6
Store batteries at Designated Storage Locations before pickup. Keep batteries dry and store away from sources of sparks or flames.
3.1.7
HESS arrange for battery pickup by Battery Recycler upon collecting several containers.
3.1.8
For recycling larger UPS batteries HESS needs to be notified directly for arranging pickup by Battery Recycler.
3.1.9
HESS sends periodic reminders to all staff about battery procedures and updates information on the website as changes occurs.
3.1.10
Accumulate less than 5,000 kilograms (approximately 11,000 pounds) of combined universal wastes on-site at any time.
3.1.11
Accumulate waste batteries for no longer than one year from the date the batteries are generated.
3.2 Universal Wastes -- All Others
3.2.1 Contact HESS for pickup Universal waste items.
3.2.2 HESS pickup Universal waste items and move to designated storage locations.
3.2.3 HESS arrange for Universal waste pickup by approved treatment, storage, and disposal facility up on collecting waste, according to regulatory requirements.
4.0 Administrative Requirements
4.1 Training
Employees are informed of UCAR Universal Waste Handling requirements by posting, communications in UCAR Today and through Safety and Security Committee correspondence.
4.2 Recordkeeping
Maintain Universal Waste Manifests for 3 years; maintain financial records of payment for recycle or disposal for at least 3 years.
Battery Recycling and Universal Wastes