Hazardous Waste FAQ

A material’s chemical characteristics such as flash point, pH, reactivity, and heavy metals content determine disposal classification. In conjunction with facility environmental compliance, all trash or waste fits into three categories for disposal: municipal, residual or hazardous.

Frequently in conjunction with a change in property use or the sale of a property, unknown or hazardous wastes are discovered. EMG quantifies and, when necessary, analyzes waste samples to identify each component. EMG follows Department of Transportation (PA-DOT) packing protocols for shipping. Each waste stream is transported and identified on a disposal manifest. The manifest documents the specific generator of the waste, shipper and the disposal facility, as well as, the quantity and type of waste disposed. The manifest serves as a chain of custody to document proper handling and disposal. All waste is recycled, incinerated, or disposed in an EPA-approved landfill in accordance with all federal and/or state regulations.

Municipal waste includes typical household and office trash like paper, food scraps, etc. Hazardous waste is based on EPA-specific standards and definitions. Hazardous wastes are characteristically most harmful and likely to contaminate. Hazardous wastes are strictly regulated and recorded. All other waste that is neither municipal nor hazardous is considered residual. Residual waste is typically nonhazardous industrial waste or byproducts from manufacturing but can include “near hazardous” wastes not covered by hazardous waste regulations. Monitored and regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and various waste management agencies, residual waste is reported through required manifest tracking from permit-licensed waste handlers. If you are not sure how materials on your site are classified, please give us a call.

Yes and No. If the paint can contents, even water-based, are still liquid then YES it is considered hazardous. Also, any can that contained lead-based paint is considered hazardous. If the water or oil-based paint is solid and completely dried-out inside the can, then NO it is not considered hazardous. If you are unsure, do not throw any container in your regular trash pickup. Most townships have paint recycling programs. Check your local municipality for dates and location.