MCF Environmental Services have been serving medical clinics, laboratories, education institutions and local businesses for more than 30 years, offering specialist waste collection and disposal services for hazardous and non-hazardous waste streams.
The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) manages and ensures compliance with hazardous waste management practices. The Hazardous Waste Branch consists of two primary arms: a permitting and corrective action group and a compliance and enforcement group.
Are you in compliance with Oklahoma hazardous waste regulations? Make sure you’re following the rules for hazardous waste management in the state.
Hazardous waste laws in Oklahoma
In addition to Oklahoma’s DEQ, other regulatory bodies in the state oversee medical waste, including the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Regulations for hazardous waste management are also found in Oklahoma’s Administrative Code, Chapter 205 – Hazardous Waste Management. Review for generator requirements, transporter rules, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste.
Determining hazardous waste generator status
Hazardous waste generators are required to determine their own generator status. A common error leading to fines is due to inaccurately determining volume of hazardous waste. This is determined by the volume of waste generated within a calendar month. For example:
- Small quantity generator (SQG) – 220 to 2,200 pounds (100 to 1,000 kg) or 27 to 275 gallons (1/2 to 5 drums)
- Large quantity generator (LQG) – over 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg), or over 275 gallons (over 5 drums)
Additional hazardous waste regulations can be found in Section 260.10 of Chapter 205.
Hazardous waste generator requirements
All hazardous waste generators in Oklahoma are required to obtain an EPA identification number. Download the Federal form (8700-12), fill it out, and submit to Oklahoma’s DEQ Land Production Division, Data Management Section.
Oklahoma’s large quantity generators (LQGs) are required to submit quarterly reports summarizing waste streams generated within a given calendar quarter. Refer to Oklahoma’s Administrative Code (252:205-5-3) for in-depth information.
Small quantity and very small quantity generators are exempt from submitting disposal plan requirements and quarterly reports with the DEQ.
Labeling and storage guidelines
The DEQ requires the all container and tank labels indicate the hazards of the contents of a container. This can be done with an OSHA hazard statement or image, RCRA characteristics, or DOT hazard placards.[1]
Compliance is important
When it comes to hazardous waste management, the responsibility falls on the waste generator and transportation and disposal facilities to know and follow Oklahoma’s laws regarding hazardous waste management. Turn to a reliable and experienced waste management company like MCF Environmental Services, with over 30 years of experience when it comes to compliance and safety.
[1]
https://www.deq.ok.gov/wp-content/uploads/land-division/Generator-Improvements-Final-RuleSlides.pdf
