If you are operating an auto maintenance or repair shop, you should know the EPA regulations that apply to you. There are many regulations that pertain to your health and safety as well as your employees and your clients. Compliance with these regulations can help you avoid penalties and fines, as well as protect human health and the environment. These regulations pertain to:
- Air Pollution (from units such as spray booths)
- Disposal of used oil and oil filters
- Used antifreeze
- Used solvents, paints and coatings
- Used rags and absorbent materials
- Used batteries
- Used tires
- Waste water and rinse water
- Non-hazardous waste such as scrap metal, packaging, discarded items
Certain wastes common to auto shops are considered special wastes and include:
- Hazardous waste
- Pollution control waste
- Industrial process waste
Hazardous waste is a special type of waste which is classified as hazardous if :
- It is listed as a hazardous waste.
- It is ignitable, toxic, corrosive or reactive.
Industrial process waste is any liquid, solid, semisolid or gaseous waste that is generated when a product is manufactured or a service is performed. Some examples of industrial process waste generated by an auto shop are:
- Paint sludges
- Equipment cleanings
- Metallic dust sweepings
- Used solvents from parts cleaners
- Off-specification, contaminated, recalled wholesale or retail products
There are specific regulations that apply to the management of each type of waste that is generated. Many regulations are based on the amount of hazardous waste that is generated by the shop. There are three hazardous waste categories:
- Generates less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month.
- Each month, it produces a total of 220 pounds to 2,200 pounds of hazardous waste.
- Generates over 2,200 pounds of hazardous waste per month
Generation of less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste
Many auto shops generate less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month and the following requirements apply:
- All hazardous waste generated should be identified.
- A licensed special waste handler should be hired to transport all hazardous waste to a facility that is permitted to receive it.
- Hazardous waste located at the auto shop should never be allowed to accumulate to more than 2,200 pounds.
- All hazardous waste should be stored in appropriate containers, such as drums.
Generation of 220 pounds or more of hazardous waste
- An EPA Identification Number must be obtained which identifies the shop’s waste generator status.
- Hazardous waste should not be kept on-site for more than 180 days.
- All storage containers must have “Hazardous Waste” stickers with the accumulation start date.
- Containers used in storing hazardous waste must be in good condition free of cracks, leaks, dents or bulges.
- Waste must be stored in the proper containers. For instance, corrosives should not be stored in steel containers, unless they are lined with corrosion-resistant material.
- Weekly inspection must be performed on hazardous waste accumulation areas.
- There should be less than 55 gallons stored in each hazardous waste accumulation area and the waste should be located near the site of waste generation.
- Allocate at least two feet of aisle space in accumulation areas for easy access.
Emergency Preparation
- The auto shop should prepare for emergency situations by:
- Designating an emergency coordinator.
- Fire extinguishers and eye wash stations should be placed at proper areas in the shop.
- Set up an alarm system.
- Emergency numbers should be posted next to the phone.
- Maintain and routinely test emergency equipment.
- Train employees on emergency response for waste handling problems.
- Store hazardous waste containers in an area which can contain leaks and is sloped to drain spills away from contact with accumulated liquids.
For more information on regulations, contact your area’s local EPA office.
Spill911.com carries a wide range industrial safety products to make sure your business is in compliance with the EPA regulations. You can find everything from spill kits to spill berms at Spill911.com
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