Question 1: Does the HCS apply to universal waste, which is included within the definition of hazardous waste and subject to 40 CFR 273?
Response: No. As noted in the background section, per 29 CFR 1910.1200(b)(6)(i), the HCS does not apply to hazardous wastes regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). When waste does not meet the definition of “hazardous waste” under the RCRA regulations, it is covered by the HCS if it meets the standard’s definition of “hazardous chemical” at 29 CFR 1910.1200(c), and if it does not fall under any of the other HCS exemptions.
RCRA defines “hazardous waste” as “solid waste, or combination of solid wastes, which, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics may — (A) cause, or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible, or incapacitating reversible, illness; or (B) pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, or disposed of, or otherwise managed.” 42 U.S.C. § 6903(5). “Solid waste” is defined under RCRA as garbage, refuge, sludge, “and other discarded material.” 42 U.S.C. § 6903(27).
The EPA’s universal waste regulations streamline its hazardous waste management standards under RCRA for certain categories of hazardous waste that are commonly generated by a wide variety of establishments. 40 CFR § 273.81(a). The EPA’s universal waste regulations at 40 CFR part 273 apply to four types of universal waste: batteries; pesticides; mercury-containing equipment; and, lamps. 40 CFR §§ 273.1(a), 273.9 (definition of “universal waste”). As these types of universal waste are considered “hazardous waste” under RCRA, they are exempt from the HCS.
Note that it is the employer’s burden to demonstrate a claimed exemption to the HCS. With regard to the “hazardous waste exemption” under paragraph (b)(6)(i), the employer must be able to demonstrate that the material is subject to RCRA regulations. At a minimum, an employer claiming the exemption must be able to produce the appropriate RCRA label and any other RCRA-required identification materials to an inspecting OSHA compliance safety and health officer. Please see OSHA’s letter to Ms. Vicki H. Cormier, November 1, 1992, for additional information.
Question 2: Some states regulate additional waste as universal wastes (e.g., oil-based finishes in New Jersey). Is universal waste subject to state regulations only included within the definition of hazardous waste, such that universal waste is not subject to the HCS?
Response: No. The HCS exemption under 29 CFR 1910.1200(b)(6)(i) covers only universal waste that is defined by RCRA regulations as hazardous waste. The exemption does not extend to universal waste subject only to state regulations.