Proper Management of Universal Waste: A Universal Problem
Posted by Mark Campanale
By Greg Brady, Chemist III, Triumvirate Environmental Somerville
People become discouraged by the thought of having to keep track of all of the Universal Waste that is generated however, if you follow a few simple steps it will ensure that your facility maintains compliance and it will save you time and money as well.
1. Designate a central location that is intended for storage. By doing this you ensure that everyone brings their Universal Waste to one location instead of having it spread out in several locations where you cannot manage the material.
2. Label each container as Universal Waste and package the material in a manner that prevents accidental release. A cardboard box that prevents breakage for fluorescent lamps or a plastic pail with a lid for batteries is great.
3. Ensure that your universal waste storage area is cleaned out every calendar year to maintain compliance. By dating each container you can easily keep track of when you have reached your universal waste on-site storage limits.
Following these steps alleviates potential compliance fines, reduces shipment preparation and on-site time for vendors, and allows your facility to reach the credit they deserve for recycling these materials.
Universal Waste includes used batteries, fluorescent lamps, pesticides and mercury containing devices. Proper management of Universal Waste is essential to maintaining a safe and compliant workplace while minimizing costs.
