Hazardous Wastes

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and regulations related to hazardous waste management under RCRA and CERCLA, as well as the Emergency Planning & Community Right-to-Know Act.

What is the purpose of the Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA)?

To increase the safety of land disposal, encourage alternatives to land disposal, and promote recycling.

What are the two subtitles under RCRA?

Subtitle C - Hazardous Wastes and Subtitle D - Non Hazardous Wastes.

What does 'cradle to grave' mean in the context of hazardous waste regulation?

It refers to the comprehensive tracking of hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal.

How does the EPA define solid waste?

Solid waste is defined as garbage, refuse, sludge, or other discarded material including solids, semisolids, liquids, and contained gaseous materials.

What are the four characteristics that can classify waste as hazardous under RCRA?

Ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity.

What does the term 'listed wastes' refer to?

Wastes that are known to be harmful to human health and the environment when not managed properly, regardless of concentration.

What is the significance of the F list and K list in hazardous waste management?

The F list designates certain hazardous wastes from common industrial processes, while the K list includes wastes from specific sources.

What types of waste are excluded from RCRA regulation?

Sewage, nuclear materials, agricultural waste, household waste, and small quantity generators.

Who is regulated by RCRA?

Generators, transporters, and owners/operators of treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDs).

What is the main enforcement mechanism for hazardous waste tracking under RCRA?

The use of a manifest system, which is a paper trail documenting the movement of hazardous waste.

What is the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation & Liability Act (CERCLA)?

A federal 'Superfund' law aimed at cleaning up uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous waste sites.

How do CERCLA and RCRA differ in their focus?

RCRA manages current hazardous waste at operational facilities, while CERCLA addresses cleanup at abandoned sites.

What is the Universal Waste Rule established in 1995?

A regulation to streamline the management of certain hazardous wastes to facilitate recycling and safe disposal.

What is the objective of the Emergency Planning & Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)?

To prepare and protect the community from chemical accidents and provide access to potential hazards.

What types of facilities must report under EPCRA Sections 302 & 303?

Facilities with Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHSS) and those involved in emergency planning.

What major events led to the establishment of EPCRA?

The Bhopal disaster and other chemical accidents which resulted in numerous injuries and deaths.