Hazardous Waste
Hazardous material that is a component of a manufacturing, farming, or small business operation can have effects on human health and the environment and must be properly disposed of in a safe manner. Hazardous material contains properties that are flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic. The cost of regulating and disposing of the materials is the responsibility of the generator through permitting and disposal fees.
The Vermont Hazardous Waste Management Program which is authorized by the US EPA in lieu of the federal hazardous waste program, regulates the generation, transportation, storage, treatment, recycling and disposal of hazardous waste, used oil, and universal hazardous waste. The program conducts inspections to verify compliance and responds to citizens’ complaints. Tracking of hazardous material is done through manifests to ensure proper delivery to appropriate facilities. Permits are issued to facilities to track material for long-term storage and facilities that treat and dispose of hazardous material.
All Vermont generators of hazardous waste are required to determine if their waste is subject to regulation as hazardous waste. Small generators, such as painters, contractors, artists, farms, dry cleaners, exterminators, and home-based businesses, may qualify as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG, formerly CEG).
What is a Very Small Quantity Generator?
VSQGs:
- generate less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month; and
- generate less than 2.2 pounds of acutely hazardous waste (P listed waste) per month; and
- generate less than 220 pounds of any residue or contaminated soil, waste, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a discharge of any acutely hazardous waste (P waste) per month;
- accumulate less than 2,200 pounds of hazardous waste, 2.2 pounds of acutely hazardous waste (P waste), or 220 pounds of any residue or contaminated soil, waste, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a discharge of any acutely hazardous waste (P waste) at any time.
If a business exceeds these limits, that business would be regulated as either a Small Quantity
Generator (SQG) or a Large Quantity Generator (LQG).
ANR's Very Small Generator's Guidebook
Larger producers are regulated through Vermont’s Hazardous Waste Management Program that establishes the guidelines for permitting and distribution of EPA Site Identification Numbers.