Universal waste

Universal waste is a category of dangerous waste that allows businesses to handle several common types of dangerous waste under the Universal Waste Rule (WAC 173-303-573), a more simplified set of rules, rather than the Dangerous Waste Regulations (WAC 173-303-520).

The benefit of managing dangerous waste as universal waste is that it:

Does not count toward your generator category.
Does not need to be reported on your Dangerous Waste Annual Report, unless you qualify as a large quantity handler.

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What is universal waste?

In Washington, the following can be managed as universal waste:

Dangerous waste batteries.
Lights and lamps (including light bulbs and light tubes).
Mercury-containing materials (thermometers, thermostats, automotive switches and relays).

How do you manage universal waste?

In order to manage universal waste under the Universal Waste Rule (WAC 173-303-573), you must:

Universal Waste Batteries label. Click to enlarge. — Print or make your own universal waste label.

Store it properly to prevent breakage and release of toxics to the environment.
Label it to show the type of waste (see our universal waste labels for example).
Track accumulation time. Universal waste has a one-year time limit for on-site accumulation. Use one of the following methods:
- Mark or label each item or container with the accumulation start date.
- Use an on-site inventory system.
- Use shipping documents or receipts to show it was sent to a facility able to accept universal waste.

Determine your handler category

Sites that generate used batteries are called universal waste handlers. Large quantity handlers are subject to additional requirements under the Standards for Universal Waste Management (WAC 173-303-573(17)).

You are a small quantity handler as long as you accumulate less than:

11,000 pounds total of universal waste (batteries, mercury-containing equipment, and lamps calculated collectively).
2,200 pounds of lamps.

If you exceed either of these limits, you are a large quantity handler and subject to additional requirements under the Standards for Universal Waste Management (WAC 173-303-573(17)).

If you store more than 11,000 pounds of universal waste (or 2,200 pounds of lamps) at one time, you qualify as a large quantity handler and are required to notify us. You must:

Track type and quantity of universal waste received and shipped.
Get an EPA/State Identification Number.
Submit a Dangerous Waste Annual Report.

Refer to the Standards for Universal Waste Management (WAC 173-303-573(17)) if this is the case.

How do you dispose of universal waste?

Send it to a facility equipped and permitted to handle and recycle universal waste.

Do not treat or dispose of universal waste yourself. Treatment will make universal waste count as dangerous waste treatment
You may self-transport to other handlers or a destination facility without official documentation of your waste. Remember, you are ultimately responsible for your waste.

Frequently asked questions

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We offer free language services about our programs and services for people whose primary language is not English. We can provide written information in your preferred language and interpreters in person or over the telephone.

Contact our Language Access team: civilrights@ecy.wa.gov

Contact information

Need help?
Contact a dangerous waste inspector in your region