Dangerous waste basics

Businesses that generate any amount of dangerous waste are responsible for this waste from cradle to grave. In Washington, the Dangerous Waste Regulations (Chapter 173-303), which are based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), determine what dangerous waste is, and how businesses should properly handle and dispose of it.

Click the video to learn about dangerous waste basics for Washington businesses.

For most businesses, the process will involve these basic steps:

There is also dangerous waste reporting and possible fees that businesses may be subject to. This page offers some introductory publications, guides, and posters to help you better understand dangerous waste management.

What is dangerous waste?

Washington uses the term "dangerous waste" rather than the federal term of "hazardous waste." Because Washington's Dangerous Waste Regulations are more protective than federal laws, the definition of "dangerous waste" is more expansive than "hazardous waste."

Get a copy of the Dangerous Waste Regulations

Book icon. Click to go to the Dangerous Waste Regulations online.
The Dangerous Waste Regulations are available online and in the following formats:

Dangerous waste guides for businesses

Businesses may find the following publications helpful. This is by no means an exhaustive list of our publications about dangerous waste, but these offer some essential guidance: 

Guidance for small quantity generators (SQGs)

Small quantity generators (SQGs) can often follow less stringent rules than other generator categories.

Click the video or watch Dangerous Waste Basics: A Guide for Small Quantity Generators on YouTube.

Shoptalk: Dangerous waste newsletter

Shoptalk, our dangerous waste and pollution prevention newsletter, comes out three times a year. It provides information on training, best practices, rulemaking, and reporting deadlines. We recommend businesses subscribe to Shoptalk for the latest issues and updates.

Posters

Common Environmental Reports for Facilities

This two-sided mini poster (8.5 x 11 in) provides a brief overview of the most common reports, their due dates, and where to find more information.

Download or request a copy or read a plain text version

Inspect your dangerous waste drums

This poster provides quick reminders for employees doing routine inspections of dangerous waste containers. Post this near your dangerous waste accumulation area.

Download or request a copy

Spanish version:
Inspeccione sus tambores de desechos peligrosos

Check your central accumulation area

Post these guidelines near your dangerous waste accumulation area. This helps employees verify that all necessary equipment and signs are there.

Download or request a copy

Spanish version:
Revisa sus áreas de acumulación central

Managing Dangerous Laboratory Waste

If your facility has a laboratory, it's a good idea to post these safety, labeling, and storage reminders where lab workers will see them. 

Download or request a copy

Labeling Dangerous Laboratory Waste

Dangerous lab waste must be labeled according to specific requirements. Post these guidelines where dangerous lab waste is generated.

Download or request a copy

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