[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 186 (Friday, September 25, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57918-58012]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-23166]



[[Page 57917]]

Vol. 80

Friday,

No. 186

September 25, 2015

Part II





 Environmental Protection Agency





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40 CFR Parts 260, 261, 262, et al.





Hazardous Waste Generator Improve; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 80 , No. 186 / Friday, September 25, 2015 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 57918]]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Parts 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 268, 270, 273, and 279

[EPA-HQ-RCRA-2012-0121; FRL 9924-07-OSWER]
RIN 2050-AG70


Hazardous Waste Generator Improvements

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or the Agency) is 
proposing to revise the hazardous waste generator regulations under the 
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to improve compliance and 
thereby enhance protection of human health and the environment. 
Specifically, EPA proposes to revise certain components of the 
hazardous waste generator regulatory program; address gaps in the 
regulations; provide greater flexibility for hazardous waste generators 
to manage their hazardous waste in a cost-effective and protective 
manner; reorganize the hazardous waste generator regulations to make 
them more user-friendly and thus improve their usability by the 
regulated community; and make technical corrections and conforming 
changes to address inadvertent errors, remove obsolete references to 
programs that no longer exist, and improve the readability of the 
regulations.
    These proposed changes are both a result of EPA's experience in 
implementing and evaluating the hazardous waste generator program over 
the last 30 years, as well as a response to concerns and issues 
identified by the states and regulated community.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 24, 2015.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-
RCRA-2012-0121, to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting 
comments. Once submitted, comments cannot be edited or withdrawn. The 
EPA may publish any comment received to its public docket. Do not 
submit electronically any information you consider to be Confidential 
Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is 
restricted by statute. Multimedia submissions (audio, video, etc.) must 
be accompanied by a written comment. The written comment is considered 
the official comment and should include discussion of all points you 
wish to make. The EPA will generally not consider comments or comment 
contents located outside of the primary submission (i.e. on the web, 
cloud, or other file sharing system). For additional submission 
methods, the full EPA public comment policy, information about CBI or 
multimedia submissions, and general guidance on making effective 
comments, please visit http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim O'Leary, U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency, Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery, (MC: 
5304P), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460, (703) 308-
8827, ([email protected]) or Kathy Lett, U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency, Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery, (MC: 5304P), 1200 
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460, (703) 605-0761, 
([email protected]).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. General Information

A. Does this action apply to me?

    Entities potentially affected by this action include between 
353,000 and 543,000 industrial entities that generate hazardous waste 
regulated under the RCRA Subtitle C regulations. Of this universe, 
between 293,000 and 470,000 are conditionally exempt small quantity 
generators (CESQGs) that will only be affected if they choose to take 
advantage of two voluntary programs being proposed. Entities 
potentially affected by this proposed rule include practically every 
industrial sector, including printing, petroleum refining, chemical 
manufacturing, plastics and resin manufacturing, pharmaceutical 
manufacturing, paint and coatings, iron and steelmaking, secondary 
smelting and refining, metal manufacturing, electroplating, circuit 
board manufacturing, and automobile manufacturing, among other 
industries.
    As discussed in section XVIII, the Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) 
for this action, available in the docket for this action, estimates the 
future annualized cost to industry to comply with the proposed 
requirements is between $6.2 and $17.4 million (at a 7% discount rate). 
The annualized benefits for entities opting to take advantage of two 
voluntary programs in the proposed rule (e.g., consolidation of CESQG 
waste by large quantity generators (LQGs) under the same ownership, and 
generators who change regulatory status episodically) is between $6.2 
and $12.2 million (at a 7% discount rate) resulting in a net annualized 
cost of between $0.1 million and $5.2 million.
    The proposed Hazardous Waste Generator Improvements Rule is 
expected to yield a variety of benefits as generators change several of 
their waste management practices to comply with the proposed 
regulations. These benefits reflect the rule's focus on enhancing 
protection of human health and the environment while improving the 
efficiency of the RCRA hazardous waste generator standards. Ideally, 
the Agency would prefer to quantify and monetize the rule's total 
benefits. However, only some categories of benefits are quantifiable. 
For the majority of benefits, sufficient data are not available to 
support a detailed quantitative analysis. For example, the added 
flexibility from allowing a large quantity generator accumulating 
ignitable or reactive hazardous waste to obtain a waiver from the local 
fire department for 50-foot property line requirement at 40 CFR 265.176 
(provided other safety requirements are met) is difficult to quantify. 
In addition, quantifying the benefits associated with emergency 
response due to changes in container labeling would require data on the 
annual number of emergencies at generator sites, the current risks 
associated with these incidents, the extent to which more detailed 
labeling would affect the procedures of emergency responders, and the 
reduction in risk associated with these changes. Detailed data on these 
items are not readily available. In this and in similar cases, the 
benefits are described qualitatively.

B. Incorporation by Reference (IBR)

    This action is not proposing to add any new IBR material, however, 
we are proposing to reorganize one of the existing requirements 
containing IBR material to make the regulation easier for the reader to 
follow. We are proposing to copy Sec.  265.201(g)(2) to Sec.  
262.16(b)(3)(vii)(B). To accommodate this change, we are proposing to 
update Sec.  260.11(d)(1), which is the IBR reference section for these 
regulations, by adding a reference to Sec.  262.16. The materials for 
which we are seeking incorporation by reference are for the NFPA 30 
standard, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, and are available for 
inspection at the ANSI Incorporation by Reference (IBR) Portal, http://ibr.ansi.org. Copies may be obtained from the National Fire Protection 
Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269. (For ordering 
information, call toll-free 1-800-344-3555.)

[[Page 57919]]

II. Statutory Authority

    These regulations are proposed under the authority of sections 
2002, 3001, 3002, 3003, 3004, 3007, and 3010 of the Solid Waste 
Disposal Act of 1965, as amended by the Resource Conservation and 
Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA), as amended by the Hazardous and Solid 
Waste Amendments of 1984 (HSWA), 42 U.S.C. 6921, 6922, 6923, and 6924. 
This statute is commonly referred to as ``RCRA.''

III. What is the intent of this proposal?

    EPA is proposing to revise the hazardous waste generator 
regulations under RCRA to improve compliance by the regulated community 
and support the efficient implementation of the hazardous waste 
generator regulations by EPA and the states and, thereby enhance 
protection of human health and the environment. Specifically, EPA 
proposes to (1) revise certain components of the hazardous waste 
generator regulatory program, primarily at 40 CFR 261.5 and 40 CFR part 
262; (2) address identified gaps in the regulations; (3) provide 
greater flexibility for hazardous waste generators to manage their 
hazardous waste in a cost-effective and protective manner; (4) 
reorganize the hazardous waste generator regulations to make them more 
user-friendly and thus improve their usability by the regulated 
community; and (5) make technical corrections and conforming changes to 
address inadvertent errors, remove obsolete programs, and improve the 
readability of the regulations.
    These proposed changes are a result of EPA's experience in 
implementing and evaluating the hazardous waste generator program over 
the last 30 years, as well as a response to concerns and issues 
identified by the states and regulated community.
    The hazardous waste generator regulatory program was originally 
promulgated in 1980. Over the course of the last 30 plus years, the 
Agency, through experience with implementing the program, and in 
various meetings, correspondence, and discussions with the states and 
the regulated community, has become aware of ambiguities, 
inconsistencies, gaps, and a lack of flexibility in the regulations, 
which, if revised, could result in a program that is more effective in 
protecting human health and the environment. Many of these problems 
were identified in a 2004 program evaluation of the hazardous waste 
generator program conducted by EPA.\1\ In 2013, a separate EPA program 
evaluation addressing hazardous waste determinations also identified a 
number of problems related to generators being able to make a proper 
hazardous waste determination.\2\ Several of the proposed provisions 
are also responsive to the 2014 Notice of Data Availability that EPA 
issued on the retail sector asking for comment on hazardous waste 
management practices in that sector and on challenges they face in 
complying with RCRA (79 FR 8926, February 14, 2014).
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    \1\ Summary of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulatory Program 
Evaluation, November 2004. See also public comments in Docket ID No. 
EPA-HQ-RCRA-2003-0014.
    \2\ Hazardous Waste Determination Program Evaluation, IEc, April 
2013. http://www.epa.gov/evaluate/pdf/waste/haz-waste-determination.pdf.
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    Many of the changes in this proposal are revisions to existing 
rules designed to improve generator compliance without any increase in 
burden. For example, the Agency has inconsistently addressed the 
situation where a generator generates both acute and non-acute 
hazardous waste in a calendar month. This inconsistency has resulted in 
uncertainty for the generator regarding what generator category, and 
thus which regulatory provisions, would apply during that calendar 
month. This proposal addresses the problem. The Agency is also 
proposing to replace the phrase ``conditionally exempt small quantity 
generator'' (CESQG) with the phrase ``very small quantity generator'' 
(VSQG) so as to be consistent with the other two generator categories--
large quantity generators (LQGs) and small quantity generators (SQGs).
    Another area of the program that needs revision is the closure 
regulations for hazardous waste generators under Sec.  262.34(a)(1). 
The regulations do not expressly specify whether closure provisions 
apply to generators accumulating hazardous waste in containment 
buildings only or also to hazardous waste accumulated in containers, 
tanks and on drip pads. This notice proposes to revise the closure 
provisions to address these and other concerns.
    The Agency is also proposing changes to improve flexibility for 
generators of hazardous wastes. One example is the proposal to enhance 
flexibility by allowing conditionally exempt small quantity generators 
(CESQGs) to send hazardous waste to an LQG that is under the control of 
the same person, provided certain conditions are met. Numerous 
situations exist in industry, government, and academia where an 
organization with satellite locations that qualify as CESQGs could take 
advantage of this provision in order to consolidate and manage the 
hazardous waste in an environmentally sound manner. In addition, this 
proposal addresses the concern that some generators, such as generators 
located in urban environments, may find it difficult to meet the 
independent requirement that containers holding ignitable or reactive 
waste must be placed 15 meters (50 feet) from the site's property line. 
To build in flexibility, while maintaining protection of human health 
and the environment, we are proposing to allow generators to apply for 
a waiver from this requirement from their local fire department or 
emergency response organization, and if approved, maintain 
documentation of that agreement.
    The Agency is also proposing to reorganize the hazardous waste 
generator regulations to make them more user-friendly for various 
stakeholders. For example, the current CESQG regulations are found at 
Sec.  261.5, while the regulations for SQGs and LQGs are found in 40 
CFR part 262. For convenience and ease of use, the Agency is proposing 
to move all the generator regulations into 40 CFR part 262. As a result 
of this reorganization, EPA is proposing to make a number of conforming 
changes to other parts of the regulations that cite particular sections 
of the part 262 regulations.
    Lastly, the Agency is proposing to make several technical 
corrections that address inadvertent errors in the regulations, 
obsolete programs, and outdated citations.

IV. What is the scope of this proposal?

    EPA is proposing to revise the hazardous waste generator 
regulations, primarily at 40 CFR 261.5 and throughout 40 CFR part 262. 
The Agency is also proposing some changes to parts 260, 263, 264, 265, 
268, 270, 273, and 279 mostly for the purposes of maintaining 
consistency with the proposed changes in part 262.
    The preamble discussion of these proposed changes is organized by 
where the existing regulations currently appear in the Code of Federal 
Regulations (CFR). The preamble to this proposed rule first addresses 
changes to the substance of the existing generator provisions, as well 
as a number of related changes (sections VI through XII). These 
proposed revisions are discussed using existing regulatory citations to 
make the discussion easier to understand by those already familiar with 
the hazardous waste generator regulations. In the cases where the 
Agency is proposing to revise a regulation and is also proposing to 
move it as part of the reorganization, the new citation for the 
provision in the

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proposed regulatory text is provided at the end of that section of 
preamble discussion.
    Following those sections, a discussion of the proposed 
reorganization of the hazardous waste generator regulations is 
presented (section XIII), including where the existing regulatory 
sections would be located in the proposed reorganization. As part of 
this discussion, we have provided a crosswalk table that compares where 
a particular regulatory section is currently in the regulations and 
where it would appear under the proposed reorganization.
    Finally, a number of technical corrections are discussed (section 
XIV).

A. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 260--Hazardous Waste Management 
System: General

    EPA is proposing to revise the definition of ``small quantity 
generator'' and add definitions for the other two generator categories 
as well as a definition for ``central accumulation area'' in Sec.  
260.10. In addition, we propose to change the name of the 
``conditionally exempt small quantity generator'' category to ``very 
small quantity generator'' or VSQG.\3\ These proposed changes are 
discussed in section VI of this preamble.
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    \3\ Despite this proposed change, in the preamble, EPA will 
continue refer to this category as CESQGs to make it easier to 
follow the other changes to the generator being proposed. We will 
use the term ``VSQG'' when directly quoting proposed regulatory 
text. This change is discussed fully in section VI of this preamble.
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B. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 261--Identification and Listing of 
Hazardous Waste

    EPA is proposing four changes to the regulations currently in 40 
CFR part 261. First, EPA is proposing to add a new provision that would 
explain what generator category would apply to a generator that 
generates both acute and non-acute hazardous waste in the same calendar 
month. Second, the Agency is proposing to revise the regulations at 
Sec. Sec.  261.5(h) and (i) and 261.3 that address the mixing of a non-
hazardous waste with a hazardous waste. Third, to make waste management 
more efficient in some cases and improve environmental protection, the 
Agency is proposing to amend Sec.  261.5(f)(3) and (g)(3) to allow 
CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to LQGs that are operated under 
control of the same person. Under this proposal, a CESQG that wants to 
take advantage of this provision would need to comply with the proposed 
requirements. Finally, the Agency is proposing to amend Sec.  261.6(c) 
to require biennial reporting for owners or operators of facilities 
that recycle but do not store hazardous waste before the recycling.
    These proposed changes are discussed in section VII of this 
preamble.

C. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 262--Standards Applicable to 
Generators of Hazardous Waste

    EPA is proposing a number of changes to the regulations for 
generators of hazardous waste at 40 CFR part 262 to improve the 
understanding of the RCRA generator regulations in order to encourage 
increased compliance by the regulated community. These proposed changes 
include the following:
     Revising the scope and applicability section to 
distinguish between independent requirements and conditions for 
exemption for generators of hazardous waste.
     Revising the regulations for making hazardous waste 
determinations;
     Requiring re-notification by SQGs and LQGs;
     Revising the regulations for labeling and marking of 
containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings when 
accumulating hazardous wastes;
     Revising the closure provisions for LQGs;
     Updating the preparedness, prevention, planning and 
emergency procedures provisions for SQGs and LQGs;
     Revising the provisions for satellite accumulation areas 
(SAA) for SQGs and LQGs;
     Revising the SQG regulations for accumulating hazardous 
waste on drip pads;
     Deleting obsolete regulations that refer to the 
Performance Track program;
     Revising the biennial reporting provisions for LQGs;
     Adding a provision that hazardous waste generators are 
prohibited from disposing liquid hazardous waste in landfills.
    These proposed changes to the generator regulations in part 262 are 
discussed in section VIII of this preamble.

D. Proposed Addition to 40 CFR Part 262 for Generators That Temporarily 
Change Generator Category as a Result of an Episodic Event

    To provide greater program flexibility, EPA is proposing to allow a 
CESQG or an SQG to maintain its existing generator category in the 
event of either a planned or unplanned episodic event in which the 
CESQG or SQG generates a quantity of hazardous waste in a calendar 
month that would otherwise bump the CESQG or SQG into a more stringent 
generator regulatory category (e.g., CESQG to either an SQG or an LQG, 
or alternatively an SQG to an LQG), provided certain conditions are 
met. Because these events would be temporary and episodic in nature, 
the generator would only be allowed to take advantage of this provision 
once every calendar year. Generators may also petition EPA or the 
authorized state to request permission to initiate a second episodic 
event during a calendar year.
    This proposed addition to the regulations is discussed in section 
IX of this preamble.

E. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 263--Standards Applicable to 
Transporters of Hazardous Waste

    To improve environmental protection, EPA is proposing to revise the 
marking and labeling standards for transporters to be consistent with 
the proposed marking and labeling standards for containers for SQGs, 
LQGs, and satellite accumulation areas elsewhere in this proposal.
    These proposed changes are discussed in section X of this preamble.

F. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Parts 264 and 265--Standards for Owners 
and Operators of Hazardous Waste TSDFs and Interim Status Standards for 
Owners and Operators of Hazardous Waste TSDFs

    The Agency is proposing modifications to the biennial reporting 
provisions in 40 CFR parts 264 and 265 to specifically include 
facilities receiving hazardous wastes without a permit, such as 
reclaimers that do not store incoming materials and reclaimers 
operating under a variance. EPA is also proposing to modify the special 
conditions for ignitable and reactive wastes at Sec.  265.176 to allow 
LQGs to apply for a waiver from their local fire departments if they 
are unable to meet the condition that hazardous waste be stored at 
least 15 meters (50 feet) from the site's boundary.
    These proposed changes are discussed in section XI of this 
preamble.

G. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 268--Land Disposal Restrictions

    EPA is proposing to revise the marking and labeling requirements at 
Sec.  268.50 to be consistent with the proposed marking and labeling 
standards for containers at SQGs, LQGs, and satellite accumulation 
areas elsewhere in this proposal. These proposed changes are discussed 
in section XII of this preamble.

[[Page 57921]]

H. Proposed Reorganization of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulations

    In addition to the proposed program changes outlined in this 
notice, EPA is proposing to reorganize the regulations for hazardous 
waste generators to consolidate most of the generator regulations into 
40 CFR part 262 and reduce cross-referencing where possible. EPA 
believes this reorganization will assist CESQGs, SQGs, and LQGs in 
understanding their regulatory responsibilities.
    The reorganization is discussed after completion of the other 
proposed changes in this proposal so that readers can more easily 
compare the existing regulatory framework with this proposal.
    The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.

I. Technical Corrections and Conforming Changes to 40 CFR Parts 260 
Through 265, 270, 273, and 279

    The Agency is proposing a number of technical corrections and 
conforming changes to correct existing errors in the hazardous waste 
generator regulations, as well as in other areas of the hazardous waste 
regulations, such as typographical mistakes, incorrect or outdated 
citations, and omissions of text. In addition, EPA is proposing 
technical changes to address the impacts of reorganizing the hazardous 
waste regulations.
    These changes are discussed in section XIV of this preamble.

J. Request for Comment on Use of Electronic Tools To Streamline 
Hazardous Waste Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

    As part of this proposed rule, the Agency is also exploring the 
feasibility of using electronic tools to streamline the hazardous waste 
recordkeeping and reporting requirements. EPA requests comment on the 
usefulness of such tools to help the regulated community comply with 
the recordkeeping and reporting requirements in the RCRA hazardous 
waste regulations.
    This request for comment is discussed in section XV of this 
preamble.

V. Background

A. History of the Hazardous Waste Generator Program

    As originally promulgated in 1980, the basic regulatory framework 
for hazardous waste generators consisted of two categories: Small 
quantity generators (SQGs) and large quantity generators (LQGs). Since 
then, there have been three major changes. First, as a result of the 
Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments (HSWA) of 1984, a rule was 
promulgated that created a third generator category by splitting the 
SQG category in two and creating conditionally exempt small quantity 
generators (CESQGs). (51 FR 10146, March 24, 1986).\4\
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    \4\ Known as the Small Quantity Generator rule.
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    Second, also as a result of HSWA, the Land Disposal Restriction 
(LDRs) regulations required hazardous waste generators to ensure that 
their hazardous waste either met a specified treatment standard or 
performance standard, or, if not, was treated to specified 
concentrations or performance standards prior to land disposal.\5\
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    \5\ Land Disposal Restrictions, http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/tsd/ldr/index.htm.
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    Third, the Agency modified the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest 
regulations and associated manifest document used to track hazardous 
waste from a generator's site to its ultimate disposition (70 FR 10776, 
March 4, 2005; 70 FR 35034, June 16, 2005). The revisions to the 
Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest standardized the content and 
appearance of the manifest form, made the forms available from a 
greater number of sources, and adopted new procedures for tracking 
certain types of hazardous waste shipments with the manifest. 
Otherwise, the changes that have occurred to the hazardous waste 
generator regulatory program have been, for the most part, relatively 
minor.

B. The Current Hazardous Waste Generator Regulations

1. Determining Generator Category
    The hazardous waste generator regulatory program is structured 
around the quantity of hazardous waste a person (or generator) 
generates in a calendar month (by site). The quantity of hazardous 
waste generated determines a generator's category for the month, which 
in turn determines what requirements are applicable to the generator 
(including determining how the generator can qualify for an exemption 
from other regulations, such as having to get a storage permit).
    The three generator categories--LQG, SQG, and CESQG--are based on 
the quantities of acute and non-acute hazardous waste generated by the 
generator.
    For non-acute hazardous waste, the thresholds are as follows:
    --LQGs generate 1,000 kilograms or greater of hazardous waste in a 
calendar month.
    --SQGs generate greater than 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 
kilograms of hazardous waste in a calendar month; and
    --CESQGs generate no more than 100 kilograms of hazardous wastes in 
a calendar month.
    For acute hazardous waste, the regulations at 40 CFR 261.5(e) state 
that if a generator generates acute hazardous waste in a calendar month 
in quantities greater than a total of one kilogram of acute hazardous 
waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or 261.33(e) or a total of 100 kilograms 
of any residue or contaminated soil, waste, or other debris resulting 
from the cleanup of a spill of any acute hazardous waste listed in 
Sec.  261.31 or 261.33(e), then all quantities of that acute hazardous 
waste are subject to the full set of LQG requirements.\6\
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    \6\ One of the technical corrections EPA is proposing with this 
rulemaking is to replace the word ``waste'' in this definition with 
the word ``water.'' This would return the definition to what it read 
before it was changed, we believe accidentally, in 1985. See section 
XIV of this preamble for a discussion of the proposed technical 
corrections.
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    In order to determine what requirements are applicable, a generator 
must first identify all the hazardous waste it generates subject to 
regulation using the four-step process below:
    1. Determine whether the material is a solid waste subject to RCRA 
regulations at Sec.  261.2;
    2. If the material is a solid waste, then determine whether the 
solid waste is specifically excluded from regulation by examining the 
exclusions at Sec.  261.4(a) and (b);
    3. If not excluded, then determine whether the solid waste is a 
hazardous waste at Sec.  262.11; and
    4. If the material is a hazardous waste, then determine whether it 
is exempt from being counted towards its generator category by 
reviewing the exemptions at Sec.  261.5(c) and (d).
    Once that is completed, the generator must count the amount of 
regulated hazardous waste generated during the calendar month to 
determine its generator category.
    Once a generator determines its generator category for the month, 
it then must manage the hazardous waste it generates and accumulates in 
a manner that complies with specified requirements, including 
requirements that qualify the generator for an exemption from having to 
obtain a permit.\7\ Therefore, determining a generator's category is 
essential to

[[Page 57922]]

determining the part 262 requirements a generator must comply with.
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    \7\ Note that the exemptions provided by the regulations are not 
just for a permit exemption. The exemption is also from RCRA section 
3004(a)(1)-(6) regulations; i.e., the regulations in 262 and 264, 
267, etc.
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2. Types of Generator Standards: Requirements and Conditions
    When RCRA was enacted in 1976, the law did not explicitly address 
whether a permit would be required for generators accumulating 
hazardous wastes. However, it was clear in the legislative history of 
RCRA that Congress did not want to interfere with commerce and impose 
permitting requirements on every generator who accumulated hazardous 
wastes. Therefore, Congress deferred to EPA in how it would reconcile 
this issue. When EPA developed the regulations applicable to 
generators, it established two types of requirements for them: (1) 
Independent requirements that would apply to generators regardless of 
whether or not they choose to obtain an exemption from the permit 
requirement and from other applicable requirements (``independent 
requirements''); and (2) requirements to meet in order to achieve the 
specific purpose of obtaining such an exemption from permitting and 
from other applicable requirements (``conditions for exemption'').
    An ``independent requirement'' in the context of the RCRA hazardous 
waste generator regulations is an unqualified standard. For example, 
the requirements of 40 CFR part 262 subpart D (Recordkeeping and 
Reporting), and the requirements in Sec. Sec.  262.30 through 262.33, 
are among the independent requirements applicable to generators. If a 
generator violates an independent requirement, it may be subject to an 
enforcement action under section 3008 of RCRA. Unlike conditions for an 
exemption, independent requirements have no direct relationship to the 
option of obtaining or maintaining an exemption from certain RCRA 
regulations.\8\
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    \8\ EPA is proposing to make the distinction between 
``independent requirement'' and ``condition for exemption'' more 
clear by placing definitions of these terms in the regulations at 
Sec.  262.1. See section VIII.A.1 for additional discussion.
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    A ``condition for exemption,'' on the other hand, is a prerequisite 
that is necessary to occur or be met in order for something else to 
take legal effect. Thus, in the context of the RCRA hazardous waste 
generator regulations, a RCRA ``condition for exemption'' is a 
requirement that a generator must comply with in order to obtain or 
maintain an exemption from RCRA permitting requirements in part 270 and 
the requirements in part 264 or part 265. For example, a conditionally 
exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs) must meet a condition for 
exemption in order for its hazardous waste to be exempt from the 
requirements in parts 124, 262 through 266, 268, or 270, or from any 
requirement for notification under section 3010 of RCRA for its 
hazardous waste. A CESQG that fails to meet all of the conditions for 
an exemption for CESQGs in Sec.  261.5 would now be subject to all 
these requirements.
    The conditions for exemption available to large and small quantity 
generators are found in the current regulations at Sec.  262.34.\9\ 
Should a small quantity generator or large quantity generator fail to 
meet all the conditions for an exemption, it would not only be subject 
to having to obtain a permit under part 270 but also to the 
requirements in part 264 or part 265.
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    \9\ Under this proposed rule these conditions for exemption 
would be moved to proposed sections Sec. Sec.  262.14 through 
262.17.
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    As stated above, complying with the conditions for exemption is not 
required because it is not mandatory for a generator to obtain and 
maintain an exemption from RCRA permitting requirements. Instead, when 
a generator does not comply with a certain condition or conditions for 
exemption, the consequence is that the generator either fails to 
obtain--or loses--the exemption from the RCRA permitting requirements 
(unless it has complied with all of the conditions for a different 
applicable exemption from those requirements). This means that, because 
there is no exemption, permitting requirements become applicable to the 
generator for the same time period that the generator is out of 
compliance with the conditions for exemption.
3. Types of Conditional Exemptions
    The current RCRA regulations afford generators two types of 
conditional exemptions: (1) An exemption from most of the 40 CFR part 
262 requirements, available to farmers and to CESQGs, and (2) an 
exemption from 40 CFR parts 124, 264 through 268, 270, and 279 
requirements, and from the notification requirements of section 3010 of 
RCRA, available to SQGs and LQGs that accumulate hazardous waste.
    The first conditional exemption is available only to farmers and 
CESQGs. With respect to farmers, this conditional exemption is found in 
part 262 subpart G and is limited to waste pesticides that are RCRA 
hazardous wastes that the farmer generates, provided the farmer triple 
rinses each emptied pesticide container in accordance with Sec.  
261.7(b)(3) and disposes of the pesticide residues on his own farm in a 
manner consistent with the disposal instructions on the pesticide 
label. This exemption from part 262 relieves farmers and CESQGs from 
the requirements related specifically to the generation, management, 
and transportation of hazardous wastes provided such waste meets 
certain conditions, including that the waste is treated or disposed of 
on site or is delivered to an off-site treatment, storage, or disposal 
facility which is located in the United States and is one of seven 
specified types of facilities. Provided the farmer and/or CESQG meets 
these conditions, they are not subject to the 40 CFR part 262, as well 
as other hazardous waste management requirements.
    The second type of conditional exemption relieves generators that 
accumulate hazardous waste from the permitting and other requirements 
applicable to treatment, storage, and disposal facilities and makes 
temporary accumulation of hazardous waste possible for generators and 
is found in Sec.  262.34. In EPA's experience, virtually every 
generator accumulates or stores its hazardous waste on site for some 
period before sending it to either an on-site or off-site permitted or 
interim status treatment storage or disposal facility (TSDF) or other 
RCRA-authorized disposal site. However, provided the generator meets 
the conditions in this exemption, they would not be subject to the 
permitting requirements and operations requirements applicable to a 
hazardous waste management facility for storage, or a ``storage 
facility.'' \10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ See 40 CFR 270.2 (``hazardous waste management facility'').
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The generator regulations in part 262, therefore, are made up of 
both independent requirements and conditions for exemptions. All 
generators are subject to at least one requirement in part 262 (i.e., 
making a hazardous waste determination); however, the total number of 
part 262 requirements applicable to a generator depends on the total 
quantity of hazardous waste it generates each calendar month and 
therefore what generator category it is for that month. All generators 
can choose the extent of their regulation under RCRA by either meeting, 
or failing to meet, all of the conditions for an exemption from 
regulation as a storage facility.
    Of all the generators, LGQs are subject to the most independent 
requirements. The current regulations at Sec.  262.34(a) are quite 
clear for LQGs where they state that a generator may accumulate 
hazardous waste on-site for 90 days or less without a permit or without 
having

[[Page 57923]]

interim status, provided that it meets the listed conditions for the 
exemption. These conditions relate to the technical requirements for 
containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings, in addition to 
marking and labeling of containers, closure, personnel training, 
emergency response procedures, and contingency planning. In effect, 
should an LQG not meet any one of these conditions, it would be 
operating illegally without a permit. The same regulatory framework 
applies to CESQGs and SQGs, but with different conditions.
    SQGs have fewer independent requirements and conditions for 
exemption than LQGs. In particular, SQGs have longer accumulation time 
limits than LQGs (up to 180 days, or 270 days, if the hazardous waste 
is shipped greater than 200 miles) and have fewer regulations related 
to personnel training, contingency planning, and emergency response 
procedures. SQGs also do not have to submit biennial reports. However, 
like LQGs, SQGs must obtain an EPA ID number, meet the technical 
standards for containers and tanks, comply with manifesting 
regulations, and send their hazardous waste to a RCRA permitted 
hazardous waste TSDF. In addition, SQGs may not accumulate more than 
6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any one time.
    CESQGs have very few conditions. Specifically, in order for CESQGs 
to be excluded from 40 CFR parts 124, 262 through 266, 268, and 270 and 
the notification requirements of section 3010 of RCRA, they must (1) 
make correct hazardous waste determinations; \11\ (2) accumulate no 
more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any one time or 
accumulate no more than the quantities of acute hazardous wastes set 
forth in Sec.  261.5(e)(1) or (2) at any one time; and (3) send 
hazardous waste to one of seven specified types of facilities described 
in Sec. Sec.  261.5(e)(3) and 261.5(g)(3).\12\ All other regulations 
applicable to LQGs and SQGs are not applicable to CESQGs that comply 
with these conditions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ Making a correct hazardous waste determination is a 
condition for the exemption for CESQGs but an independent 
requirement for SQGs and LQGs.
    \12\ A CESQG may send hazardous waste to the following types of 
facilities: (1) A hazardous waste facility permitted by EPA; (2) an 
interim status hazardous waste facility; (3) a hazardous waste 
facility permitted by an authorized state; (4) a facility permitted, 
licensed or registered by a state to manage municipal solid waste; 
(5) a facility permitted, licensed or registered by a state to 
manage non-municipal non-hazardous solid waste; (6) a facility which 
beneficially uses or reuses or legitimacy recycles or reclaims its 
wastes or treats its waste prior to beneficial use or reuse or 
legitimacy recycling or reclamation; or (7) universal waste handler 
or destination facility subject to the requirements in 40 CFR part 
273. The Agency is proposing an eighth location where CESQGs would 
be allowed to send their hazardous wastes (e.g., an LQG within the 
same company provided specified conditions are met).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Table 1--Summary of Generator Regulations provides a summary of 
requirements that represent conditions for an exemption for CESQGs, 
SQGs and LQGs. As noted in the table, the category ``Conditions for 
Exemption'' applies to such requirements as the quantity generated and 
accumulated, accumulation time, the technical standards for containers, 
tanks, drip pads and containment buildings, marking and labeling, 
personnel training, contingency planning and emergency procedures. It 
is important to note that a waste determination is an independent 
requirement for SQGs and LQGs, whereas it is a condition for exemption 
for CESQGs as defined at Sec.  261.5(f)(1) and (g)(1).\13\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ Note that state hazardous waste programs may be more 
stringent than the federal program and also broader in scope.

                                    Table 1--Summary of Generator Regulations
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             CESQGs                     SQGs                      LQGs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Generator Category...............  <=100 kg/month...........  >100 and <1,000 kg/month  >=1,000 kg/month
                                   <=1 kg/month of acute      <=1 kg/month of acute     >1 kg/month of acute
                                    hazardous waste.           hazardous waste.          hazardous waste
                                   <=100 kg/month of acute    <=100 kg/month of acute   >100 kg/month of acute
                                    spill residue or soil.     spill residue or soil.    spill residue or soil
                                   Sec.  Sec.   261.5(a) and  Sec.  Sec.   262.34(d)    Sec.  Sec.   262.34(a)
                                    (e).                       and 261.5(e).             and 261.5(e).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Conditions for Exemption
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hazardous Waste Determination....  Sec.   262.11............  N/A.....................  N/A.
On-Site Accumulation Quantity....  <=1,000 kg...............  <=6,000 kg..............  No limit.
                                   <=1 kg acute.............  Sec.   262.34(d)(1).....
                                   <=100 kg of acute spill
                                    residue or soil.
                                   Sec.   261.5(f)(2) and
                                    (g)(2).
Satellite accumulation...........  Not applicable...........  Sec.   262.34 (c)(1) and  Sec.   262.34 (c)(1) and
                                                               (2).                      (2).
Accumulation Time Limits.........  None.....................  <=180 days or <=270 days  <=90 days.
                                                               (if greater than 200     Sec.   262.34(a).
                                                               miles).
                                                              Sec.   262.34(d)(2) and
                                                               (3).
Accumulation Conditions..........  Sec.   261.5 (f)(1) and    Reduced standards for     Full compliance for
                                    (2); Sec.   261.5 (g)(1)   the management of         management of hazardous
                                    and (2).                   hazardous waste in        waste in containers,
                                                               containers and tanks.     tanks, drip pads, or
                                                              Sec.   262.34(d)(2) and    containment buildings.
                                                               (3).                     Sec.   262.34(a).
Sent To:.........................  One of seven state         RCRA permitted/interim    RCRA permitted/interim
                                    approved or RCRA           status facility.          status facility.
                                    permitted/interim status
                                    facilities.
                                   Sec.   261.5(f)(3) and
                                    (g)(3).
Personnel Training...............  Not required.............  Reduced training          Full compliance with
                                                               standards.                Sec.  Sec.   265.16 and
                                                              Sec.   262.34(d)(5)(iii)   262.34(a)(4).
Marking and labeling.............  Not required.............  Sec.   262.34 (a)(2) and  Sec.   262.34 (a)(2) and
                                                               (3).                      (3).
Contingency Plan.................  Not required.............  Reduced standards.......  Full compliance with
                                                              Sec.   262.34(d)(5)(i)..   part 265 subparts C and
                                                                                         D.
                                                                                        Sec.   262.34(a)(4).

[[Page 57924]]

 
Emergency Procedures.............  Not required.............  Part 265 subpart C......  Full compliance with
                                                              Sec.   262.34(d)(5)(iv).   part 265 subparts C and
                                                                                         D.
                                                                                        Sec.   262.34(a)(4).
Closure..........................  Not required.............  Not required............  Sec.   262.34(a)(1)(iv)/
                                                                                         Sec.  Sec.   265.111
                                                                                         and 265.114.
Land Disposal Restrictions.......  Not required.............  40 CFR 262.34(a)(4)/40    40 CFR 262.34(a)(4)/40
                                                               CFR part 268.             CFR part 268.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Hazardous Waste Generator Demographics

    In 2011, 16,447 generators reported generating approximately 34.4 
million tons of hazardous waste.\14\ Of the 16,447 generators, 14,262 
were LQGs and 2,185 were non-LQGs, meaning these entities submitted a 
biennial report but did not report generating sufficient amounts of 
hazardous waste to be categorized as an LQG.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ EPA's National Biennial RCRA Hazardous Waste Report (Based 
on 2011 Data) http://www.epa.gov/osw/inforesources/data/br11/index.htm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The fifty largest hazardous waste generators reported generating 
28.7 million tons, or 83 percent of the total. Additionally, 3,148 
generators, or approximately 19 percent of the total reporting 
universe, reported generating only one hazardous waste stream, while 
8,435 generators, or 51 percent of the total reporting universe, 
reported generating between one and five hazardous waste streams.\15\ 
At the other extreme were 843 generators, or 5 percent of the total 
reporting universe, that reported generating 41 or more hazardous waste 
streams. These generators included sites from the waste treatment 
industry as well as academic and industrial laboratories.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ Summary of the number of GM forms submitted by LQGs in 2011 
Biennial Report.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Of the 34.4 million tons of hazardous waste generated in 2011, 30.5 
million tons, or 89 percent, were generated in just five industrial 
sectors: Basic Chemical Manufacturing (which alone accounted for 55 
percent of the hazardous waste generated); Petroleum and Coal Products 
Manufacturing, Waste Treatment and Disposal; Pesticide, Fertilizer, and 
Other Chemical Manufacturing; and Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy 
Manufacturing.
    Unlike LQGs, who must submit a biennial report every two years 
describing the types and quantities of hazardous waste generated and 
its subsequent disposition, SQGs are not required to provide such 
information to the Agency. Consequently, the Agency lacks the level of 
detail for SQGs that is available for LQGs. However, based on a review 
of biennial report data provided by treatment, storage, and disposal 
facilities (which must report waste received from all hazardous waste 
generators) and site identification data (from SQGs obtaining an EPA ID 
number), EPA estimates the number of SQGs to range from 45,762 to 
59,702.\16\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ Estimate of Total Number of SQGs and CESQGs, July 2013. We 
estimated this range by doing the following: (1) Identifying 
hazardous waste generators who shipped hazardous waste off site in 
2007, 2009, and 2011 using the Biennial Report's WR form and (2) 
cross walking that universe with data received from Site ID forms to 
identify the ``active'' SQG universe. The high-end estimate 
represents SQGs who shipped hazardous waste off site in any one of 
the three Biennial Report cycles, since many hazardous waste 
generators fluctuate in the regulatory status from year to year. The 
estimate also includes new SQGs who notified after the 2011 biennial 
report. The low-end represents SQGs who shipped hazardous waste off 
site in 2011 only as well as new SQG notifiers. A copy of the 
results can be found in the docket to this proposal.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Because CESQGs are not required to obtain a RCRA ID, the 
information available to the Agency is limited to those states that 
require their CESQGs to obtain a RCRA ID. Therefore, in estimating the 
size of the CESQG universe, the Agency developed a methodology that 
extrapolated the size of the CESQG universes based on the data 
available in those states that require CESQGs to obtain a RCRA ID. We 
first established a ratio of SQGs to CESQGs in those states where 
information was available on the CESQG universe and then used that 
ratio to estimate the size of a state's CESQG universe where CESQG 
information was unavailable. Using this methodology, EPA currently 
estimates the size of the CESQG universe to range from 302,807 to 
425,752.\17\ However, we believe this range most likely underestimates 
the true number of CESQGs because we believe there are many more 
facilities unaware of their obligations under the RCRA hazardous waste 
regulations and the need to conduct correct hazardous waste 
determinations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ Methodology to Estimate the National Number of CESQGs, July 
2013.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. 2004 Hazardous Waste Generator Program Evaluation

    On April 22, 2004, EPA published the ``Hazardous Waste Generator 
Program Evaluation'' Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (69 FR 
21800). The purpose of the April 2004 notice was to seek information 
from stakeholders in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the RCRA 
hazardous waste generator program, as well as to identify areas for 
potential improvement.
    Specifically, the April 2004 notice requested that stakeholders 
answer a series of questions in a number of areas of the hazardous 
waste generator regulatory program, including program effectiveness, 
improvements, redundancy, innovation, performance, burden reduction, 
pollution prevention and recycling, and priorities. Questions included 
whether the existing RCRA hazardous waste generator regulatory program 
is meeting its goal of protecting human health and the environment and 
whether the regulations are easy to understand, including questions 
asking which specific regulations are unclear or have been interpreted 
inconsistently.
    EPA also included in the April 2004 notice a list of program areas 
that had previously been identified by stakeholders as needing 
improvement. These program areas included waste accumulation times, 
waste generation quantity thresholds and counting rules for LQGs, SQGs, 
and CESQGs, episodic generator provisions, waste sampling and testing, 
waste management standards, satellite accumulation, generator 
accumulation and treatment in containers or tanks, closure standards 
for generators, co-generator standards, RCRA identification numbers, 
waste minimization, and land disposal restriction requirements 
applicable to generators. During the comment period, EPA also held four 
public meetings in May 2004 in Boston, MA, Chicago, IL, Washington, DC, 
and Seattle, WA.
    In response to the April 2004 notice and the May 2004 public 
meetings, EPA received over 500 comments from 55 organizations and 
individuals, including 9 states, 5 federal agencies, 2

[[Page 57925]]

universities, 12 trade associations, and 22 companies.\18\ Overall, 
EPA's effort to seek information regarding the effectiveness of the 
hazardous waste generator regulatory program received a favorable 
response.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ Public comments can be found in Docket ID No. RCRA-2003-
0014.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Many commenters agreed that implementation of the generator 
regulations has made significant improvements in managing hazardous 
waste and has resulted in fewer releases of hazardous waste to the 
environment. However, many commenters identified several improvements 
they believed needed to be made to regulations. Specifically, they 
suggested the following:
     Simplify the regulations to make them more user-friendly 
and easy to understand, such as eliminating cross-referencing and 
codifying guidance into regulations, where applicable.
     Improve the efficiency of the program by clearing up 
ambiguities and removing potential redundancies, such as defining what 
constitutes a closed container and clarifying parts of the satellite 
accumulation regulations.
     Provide greater flexibility in the regulations, such as 
regulations that allow for episodic generation and that allow wastes to 
be shipped from remote locations to a centralized location to enable 
better waste management.
     Require re-notification to ensure better data quality to 
support compliance monitoring of SQG facilities (state commenters).
     Improve regulations on hazardous waste determinations, 
including when it is appropriate to use generator knowledge instead of 
analytical testing (Industry commenters).
    In response to the comments on the April 2004 notice, EPA took 
several actions to help improve the hazardous waste generator program 
in order to foster better compliance. Actions included (1) improving 
EPA's Web site for the hazardous waste generator regulatory 
program,\19\ (2) developing an online guide to the hazardous waste 
generator regulations,\20\ (3) releasing guidance for management of 
hazardous waste in closed containers,\21\ (4) issuing a technical 
corrections direct final rule,\22\ and (5) conducting an evaluation of 
the hazardous waste determination program.\23\ While these actions have 
helped to improve the hazardous waste generator program, the Agency 
recognizes that many of the changes identified by commenters can only 
be made through rulemaking. Thus, this proposed rule requests comment 
on a number of changes to the hazardous waste generator regulations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/generation/index.htm.
    \20\ ``Hazardous Waste Generator Regulations: A User-Friendly 
Reference Document'' (http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/downloads/tool2012.pdf).
    \21\ Memorandum from Betsy Devlin, Acting Director of EPA's 
Waste Recovery and Waste Management Division, to RCRA Division 
Directors, ``Closed Container Guidance: Questions and Answers (Qs & 
As), November 3, 2011, incorporating Memorandum from Robert 
Dellinger, Director of EPA's Materials Recovery and Waste 
Management. Division, to RCRA Division Directors, ``Guidance on 40 
CFR 264.173(a) and 265.173(a): Closed Containers,'' December 3, 
2009, RCRA Online 14826.
    \22\ 75 FR 12989, March 18, 2010.
    \23\ Hazardous Waste Determination Program Evaluation, April 
2013 (http://www.epa.gov/evaluate/pdf/waste/haz-waste-determination.pdf).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

VI. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 260--Hazardous Waste Management 
System: General

A. Generator Category Definitions (40 CFR 260.10)

    EPA is proposing to codify definitions for the three categories of 
hazardous waste generators (CESQG, SQG and LQG). The term ``small 
quantity generator'' is codified in the regulations, but is outdated, 
whereas ``conditionally exempt small quantity generator'' and ``large 
quantity generator'' have been used within the RCRA hazardous waste 
community for several decades, but their exact definitions have not 
been codified. The regulations differentiate between the categories by 
stating the quantity of hazardous waste generated in a calendar month 
in each instance.
    As the terms are most commonly used, CESQGs are generators that 
generate 100 kilograms or less of non-acute hazardous waste and 1 
kilogram or less of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month; SQGs are 
generators that generate greater than 100 kilograms of non-acute 
hazardous waste but less than 1,000 kilograms of non-acute hazardous 
waste and 1 kilogram or less of acute hazardous waste in a calendar 
month; and LQGs are generators that generate 1,000 kilograms or greater 
of non-acute hazardous waste and/or greater than 1 kilogram of acute 
hazardous waste in a calendar month. However, generators often fail to 
consider residues from the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous waste 
or do not count both the non-acute and acute hazardous waste they 
generate in a calendar month. The proposed definitions have been 
drafted to incorporate all the various categories of hazardous wastes--
that is, acute hazardous waste, non-acute hazardous waste, and residues 
for the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous wastes.
    Considering the significance a generator's category has in 
determining the appropriate set of regulations that the generator must 
comply with, the Agency believes it is necessary to define the specific 
hazardous waste generator categories in the regulations.
    The proposed generator category definitions are based solely on the 
amount of hazardous waste generated. While EPA acknowledges that 
accumulation limits may trigger different generator regulations, those 
accumulation limits do not affect a generator's generation category, 
which is based on how much hazardous waste is generated in a calendar 
month.
    Therefore, EPA is proposing to add the following definitions to 
Sec.  260.10:
    Very small quantity generator is a generator who generates less 
than or equal to the following amounts in a calendar month: (1) 100 
kilograms (220 lbs) of non- acute hazardous waste; and (2) 1 kilogram 
(2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  
261.33(e); and (3) 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or 
contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of 
a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous waste 
listed in sections Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e);\24\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ As part of this rulemaking, EPA is proposing to change the 
name of ``conditionally exempt small quantity generator (CESQG)'' to 
``very small quantity generator (VSQG).'' This change is discussed 
in section VI.B. For the sake of a consistent discussion, however, 
EPA is using the term CESQG throughout the preamble unless directly 
stating the content of the proposed regulatory text.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Small quantity generator is a generator who generates the following 
amounts in a calendar month: (1) Greater than 100 kilograms (220 lbs) 
but less than 1000 kilograms (2200 pounds) of non-acute hazardous 
waste; and (2) less than or equal to 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute 
hazardous wastes listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e); and (3) 
less than or equal to 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or 
contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of 
a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous waste 
listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e);
    Large quantity generator is a generator who generates any of the 
following amounts in a calendar month: (1) Greater than or equal to 
1000 kilograms (2200 lbs) of non-acute hazardous waste; or (2) greater 
than 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  
261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e); or (3) greater than 100 kilograms (220 lbs) 
of any residue or contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting 
from the cleanup of a spill, into or on any land or water,

[[Page 57926]]

of any acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e).
    EPA is also proposing to add definitions to Sec.  260.10 for the 
terms ``acute hazardous waste'' and ``non-acute hazardous waste,'' 
which are both used in the above definitions for generator categories. 
The term acute hazardous waste is used for hazardous wastes that are 
particularly dangerous to human health and is defined as those 
hazardous wastes that meet the listing criteria in Sec.  261.11(a)(2) 
and are therefore listed in Sec.  261.31 and assigned the hazard code 
of (H) or are listed in Sec.  261.33(e), also known as the RCRA P-list. 
In this proposal, any distinctions between acute and non-acute 
hazardous wastes are only being made in the context of determining 
generator category. Generally the term ``hazardous waste'' refers to 
both acute and non-acute hazardous waste.
    As previously stated, the definitions of generator categories are 
based solely on the amount of hazardous waste generated in a calendar 
month and are generally consistent with how the regulated community 
understands the various categories based on EPA's references in 
existing publications to how much hazardous waste is generated in a 
calendar month. Additionally, these definitions reflect that a 
generator may only have one generator category in a calendar month even 
if the generator generates both acute hazardous waste and non-acute 
hazardous waste in the same calendar month, a topic discussed further 
in section VII.A.
    In practice, five waste generation scenarios exist with different 
combinations of acute hazardous waste, non-acute hazardous waste, and 
residues from the cleanup of spills of acute hazardous waste generated 
in a calendar month. These scenarios are summarized in Table 2--
Generator Categories Based on Quantity of Waste Generated.\25\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ EPA is proposing to include this table in the regulations 
as Table 1 in Sec.  262.13.

                       Table 2--Generator Categories Based on Quantity of Waste Generated
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              Quantity of
                                   Quantity of acute   Quantity of non-    residues from the
                                    hazardous waste     acute hazardous    cleanup of acute
                #                   generated in a    waste generated in    hazardous waste   Generator category
                                    calendar month     a calendar month     generated in a
                                                                            calendar month
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................  > 1 kg............  Any amount........  Any amount........  LQG.
2...............................  Any amount........  >= 1,000 kg.......  Any amount........  LQG.
3...............................  Any amount........  Any amount........  > 100 kg..........  LQG.
4...............................  <= 1 kg...........  > 100 kg and <      <= 100 kg.........  SQG.
                                                       1,000 kg.
5...............................  <= 1 kg...........  <= 100 kg.........  <= 100 kg.........  VSQG/(CESQG).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Note: When calculating generator categories, the quantities of 
acute hazardous waste and non-acute hazardous waste are considered 
separately.
    In three of the scenarios in Table 2--Generator Categories Based on 
Quantity of Waste Generated, the generator would be an LQG, in one 
scenario the generator would be an SQG, and in one scenario the 
generator would be a CESQG. In the first three scenarios, the generator 
is an LQG if it generates any of the following in a calendar month, 
regardless of the amounts of hazardous waste generated in the other 
categories: more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste, 1,000 
kilograms or more of non-acute hazardous waste, or more than 100 
kilograms of residues from the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous 
waste. This is made clear in the proposed regulatory definition of 
``LQG'' by use of the word ``any'' and by the use of the word ``or'' 
between (1), (2), and (3). In these scenarios, the generator would need 
to comply with the independent requirements and conditions for the 
exemption for LQGs (specified in proposed Sec.  262.17), as well as any 
applicable regulations for SAAs at Sec.  262.15.
    In the fourth scenario, the generator would be an SQG if, in a 
calendar month, it generates greater than 100 kilograms and less than 
1,000 kilograms of non-acute hazardous waste and also 1 kilogram or 
less of acute hazardous waste and 100 kilograms or less of residues 
from the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous waste.\26\ The proposed 
regulatory text expresses this scenario by using the word ``and'' 
between (1), (2), and (3) in the definition of SQG. As a result, the 
generator would need to comply with the independent requirements and 
conditions for the exemption for SQGs (specified in proposed Sec.  
262.16), as well as any applicable regulations for SAAs at Sec.  
262.15.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \26\ Amount of hazardous waste accumulated on site at any given 
time can also impact what regulations the SQG must comply with.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Finally, in the fifth scenario, if a generator generates 1 kilogram 
or less of acute hazardous waste and 100 kilograms or less of non-acute 
hazardous waste and 100 kilograms or less of residue from the cleanup 
of a spill of acute hazardous waste, then the generator is a CESQG for 
that calendar month. The proposed regulatory text expresses this 
scenario by using the word ``and'' between (1), (2), and (3) in the 
definition. As a result, the generator would need to comply with the 
conditions for the exemption for CESQGs (specified in proposed Sec.  
262.14).\27\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \27\ EPA is proposing to move the CESQG regulations from 
Sec. Sec.  261.5 to 262.14. See section XIII of this preamble for 
more information.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA requests comment on these proposed changes.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

B. Renaming CESQG to VSQG (40 CFR 260.10)

    Currently only one of the three generator categories--CESQG--uses 
the words ``conditionally exempt'' in its title; however both SQGs and 
LQGs, which typically accumulate hazardous waste on site, are also 
conditionally exempt from obtaining a RCRA permit or complying with the 
interim status standards in 40 CFR parts 264 and 265, respectively, 
provided they meet certain conditions. In addition, while CESQGs are 
subject to few conditions for exemption, they are still considered 
hazardous waste generators, and must comply with the relevant 
regulations. If a CESQG does not comply, it would be out of compliance 
with the hazardous waste regulations and potentially subject to 
enforcement action. This inconsistency in terminology has caused some 
confusion throughout the regulated community. Therefore, EPA is 
proposing to change the name of the category from ``conditionally 
exempt small quantity generator (CESQG)'' to ``very small quantity 
generator (VSQG).''

[[Page 57927]]

EPA notes that this change is consistent with some states, such as 
Minnesota, which are already using the VSQG term. All regulations 
applicable to a CESQG would apply to a VSQG.
    EPA requests comment on this proposed change.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

C. Definition of Central Accumulation Area (40 CFR 260.10)

    The Agency is also proposing to define the term ``central 
accumulation area'' in Sec.  260.10 to mean any on-site hazardous waste 
accumulation area with hazardous waste accumulating in units subject to 
either Sec.  262.16 (for small quantity generators) or Sec.  262.17 
(for large quantity generators).\28\ The definition also states that a 
central accumulation area at an eligible academic entity that chooses 
to be subject to part 262 subpart K must also comply with Sec.  262.211 
when accumulating unwanted material and/or hazardous waste.
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    \28\ This proposed definition includes citations to new sections 
of part 262 that we are proposing to include as part of the 
reorganization of the generator regulations. The existing small 
quantity generator regulations are at Sec. Sec.  262.34(d) through 
(f) and the existing large quantity generator regulations are at 
Sec.  262.34(a). For a full discussion of the proposed 
reorganization, see section XIII of the preamble.
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    LQGs may accumulate hazardous waste on site without a permit or 
complying with the interim status standards for up to 90 days provided 
they comply with Sec.  262.34(a) and SQGs may do the same for up to 180 
days, provided they comply with Sec.  262.34(d) though (f).\29\ Over 
the years, stakeholders have used different terms to refer to these on-
site generator accumulation areas, including ``generator accumulation 
areas,'' ``less-than-90-day areas,'' and ``less-than-180-day areas.'' 
In December 2008, EPA promulgated a definition of ``central 
accumulation area'' in subpart K of part 262 to refer to these types of 
areas (``Academic Labs Rule''; 73 FR 72912, December 1, 2008). As 
explained in the preamble to the proposed Academic Labs Rule, EPA 
codified the term ``central accumulation area'' for the sake of 
convenience to distinguish these types of accumulation areas from 
satellite accumulation areas and laboratories, which are both subject 
to different regulations than central accumulation areas are. At the 
time, EPA promulgated the term in Sec.  262.200 and indicated that the 
definition only applied to part 262 subpart K. Since then, the term has 
become more widely used and EPA is now proposing to define the term 
``central accumulation area'' in Sec.  260.10 to allow its use when 
referring to generator accumulation areas that are not operating under 
part 262 subpart K.
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    \29\ As noted previously, SQGs can accumulate hazardous waste 
for up to 270 days if they ship the hazardous waste greater than 200 
miles.
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    EPA emphasizes that we are proposing to define the term ``central 
accumulation area'' only as a matter of convenience. It is helpful for 
both the regulated community and the implementers to have a common term 
to use when referring to locations where generators accumulate 
hazardous waste other than satellite accumulation areas. Furthermore, 
the term is helpful for EPA to use when writing regulations, preamble, 
and guidance. The addition of the term does not establish any new 
regulatory standards or burden on generators. Generators may continue 
to have more than one central accumulation area on site; the use of the 
word ``central'' does not limit a generator to one area.
    We have rephrased the proposed definition from how it currently 
appears in part 262 subpart K to make this clearer. The definition, as 
it appears in part 262 subpart K, currently states that a central 
accumulation area means an on-site hazardous waste accumulation area. 
We are proposing to revise the definition to say that a central 
accumulation area means any on-site hazardous waste accumulation area. 
Further, the use of the word ``central'' does not indicate that the 
generator must establish the central accumulation area in a location 
that is centrally located within the site. The use of the word 
``central'' is used because many generators use a central accumulation 
area to consolidate or centralize their hazardous waste from multiple 
satellite accumulation areas prior to shipment off-site.
    Because the proposed definition to be added to Sec.  260.10 will 
now reference part 262 subpart K (the definition states that a central 
accumulation area at an eligible academic entity that chooses to be 
subject to part 262 subpart K must also comply with Sec.  262.211 when 
accumulating unwanted material and/or hazardous waste), we are 
proposing to remove the definition of central accumulation area from 
part 262 subpart K.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The definition of ``central accumulation 
area'' references other regulatory citations that are part of the 
proposed reorganization. The reorganization is discussed in section 
XIII of this preamble.

VII. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 261--Identification and Listing 
of Hazardous Wastes

    EPA is proposing four changes to the regulations currently in 40 
CFR part 261. First, the Agency is proposing to add a new provision 
that would explain what generator category would apply to a hazardous 
waste generator that generates both acute and non-acute hazardous waste 
in the same calendar month. Second, EPA is proposing to modify the 
regulations at Sec. Sec.  261.5(h) and (i) and 261.3 that address the 
mixing of a non-hazardous waste with a hazardous waste. Third, the 
Agency is proposing to amend Sec.  261.5(f)(3) and (g)(3) to allow a 
CESQG to send its hazardous waste to an LQG under control of the same 
person. Finally, the Agency is proposing to amend Sec.  261.6(c) to 
require biennial reporting for owners or operators of facilities that 
recycle hazardous waste without storing them before they are recycled.

A. Generators That Generate Both Acute and Non-Acute Hazardous Waste in 
the Same Calendar Month (40 CFR 261.5)

    When a generator is determining what category it belongs in, it 
must consider three relevant categories of hazardous waste: hazardous 
waste (or non-acute hazardous waste, for purposes of this discussion), 
acute hazardous waste, and residues from the cleanup of a spill of 
acute hazardous waste. EPA is proposing regulations that make clear 
what a generator's category is for a calendar month when it generates 
any combination of non-acute hazardous waste, acute hazardous waste, 
and residues from the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous waste in 
the same calendar month and which set of regulations apply. Currently, 
the RCRA hazardous waste regulations do not address situations 
involving combinations of wastes and Agency statements about this issue 
have been inconsistent.
    According to the November 19,1980, FR notice discussing changes to 
Sec.  261.5, ``the regulation is revised to clarify that the lower 
exclusion levels for acutely hazardous waste apply only to generators 
who otherwise are deemed small quantity generators.\30\ The Agency 
believes that a generator who produces more than 1,000 kilograms of 
hazardous waste a month and is therefore subject to full regulation 
should handle his

[[Page 57928]]

acutely hazardous wastes in the same manner as his other wastes'' (45 
FR 76622).
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    \30\ Note: Prior to 1986, there were only two categories of 
generators: large quantity generators and small quantity generators. 
When the small quantity generator regulations were promulgated in 
1986, a third category of generators, conditionally exempt small 
quantity generators, was established.
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    In other words, if a generator generates 1,000 kilograms or more of 
non-acute hazardous waste in a calendar month, it would be considered 
an LQG for that month and therefore should, for both practical and 
environmental reasons, manage the acute hazardous wastes under the same 
regulations as an LQG (even if the amount of acute hazardous waste 
generated in a calendar month is less than 1 kilogram). However, a 
provision regarding how to determine one's generator category when 
generating a combination of non-acute hazardous waste, acute hazardous 
waste, and residues from the cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous 
waste was not included in the regulatory language.
    Conversely, in a September 2, 1987, letter concerning the 
accumulation time for acute hazardous waste and non-acute hazardous 
waste in the same month, the Agency stated, ``Acute hazardous wastes 
are counted and managed separately from hazardous wastes (Sec.  
261.5(e)). In the example given, the generator would have 90 days to 
send the acute hazardous waste off site, but would have 180 days for 
the non-acute hazardous waste.'' \31\ These different Agency 
interpretations have ultimately led to confusion regarding which 
regulations apply to hazardous waste generators that generate different 
categories of hazardous waste in the same calendar month.
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    \31\ Letter from Marcia E. Williams, Director of EPA's Office of 
Solid Waste, to Fred Hutchison, University of Idaho, September 2, 
1987, RCRA Online 11288.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency believes the more practical approach is for a generator 
to be in only one generator category in a calendar month, the approach 
outlined in the 1980 Federal Register discussion. When a generator 
generating only non-acute hazardous wastes counts its waste, it must 
consider the total amount of all its different kinds of non-acute 
hazardous waste, not the amount of each type of hazardous waste (such 
as, type of waste identified by individual EPA hazardous waste number) 
separately. Considering the combination of acute hazardous wastes, non-
acute hazardous wastes, and residues from the cleanup of a spill of 
acute hazardous waste generated in a calendar month when determining 
what category a generator belongs to follows the same logic. In 
addition, many of the regulations for LQGs are site-wide, such as 
submitting the biennial report, developing a contingency plan, and 
conducting training, and therefore a generator would still have to 
comply with these conditions and would not gain a significant economic 
advantage by having more than one generator category. We note that many 
EPA Regions and states have taken this same approach in implementing 
the RCRA hazardous waste program.
    This is why EPA is proposing to expressly state in the definitions 
which generator category would apply to hazardous waste generators that 
generate a combination of non-acute hazardous waste, acute hazardous 
waste, and/or residues from the cleanup of spills of acute hazardous 
waste in a calendar month as discussed in section VI of this preamble. 
In conjunction with these changes, EPA is proposing a new section Sec.  
262.13 explaining how a generator determines which generator category 
applies to it. This topic is fully discussed in section VIII of this 
preamble. The Agency is soliciting comment on the proposal to revise 
the existing regulations to indicate that a generator can only have one 
generator category in a calendar month, according to the quantity of 
acute and non-acute hazardous waste it generates.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. All the proposed definitions of generator 
categories would be found in Sec.  260.10. The reorganization is 
discussed in section XIII of this preamble.

B. Generators That Mix a Non-Hazardous Waste With a Hazardous Waste

    EPA is proposing to modify how mixtures of non-hazardous waste and 
hazardous waste would affect the generator categories of CESQGs and 
SQGs. Additionally, EPA is proposing to add a reference in 40 CFR part 
262 that assists LQGs with finding the regulations applicable to mixing 
hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste.
1. CESQGs That Mix a Non-Hazardous Waste With a Hazardous Waste (40 CFR 
261.5(h) and (i))
    With the partitioning of the original 1980 SQG regulations into two 
sets of regulations for CESQGs and SQGs in 1986, potential confusion 
surrounds the current reading and implementation of Sec.  261.5(h) and 
(i). When the regulations at Sec.  261.5(h) and (i) were promulgated on 
November 19, 1980 (45 FR 76623), the title of Sec.  261.5 was ``Special 
requirements for hazardous waste generated by small quantity 
generators.'' At that time, there were only two hazardous waste 
generator categories: LQGs and SQGs. Prior to the promulgation of the 
new SQG regulations on March 24, 1986 (52 FR 10146), an SQG was a 
generator who generates less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste in 
a calendar month; the regulations did not make a distinction between 
SQGs and CESQGs at that time. Prior to 1986, paragraphs (h) and (i) of 
section 261.5 read as follows:

    ``(h) Hazardous waste subject to the reduced requirements of 
this section may be mixed with non-hazardous waste and remain 
subject to these reduced requirements even though the resultant 
mixture exceeds the quantity limitations identified in this section, 
unless the mixture meets any of the characteristics of hazardous 
waste identified in subpart C.
    (i) If a small quantity generator mixes a solid waste with a 
hazardous waste that exceeds a quantity exclusion level of this 
section, the mixture is subject to full regulation.''

    With the promulgation of the SQG regulations in 1986, SQGs were 
broken into two classes of generators: (1) CESQGs (generators who 
generate up to 100 kilograms of hazardous waste in a calendar month) 
and (2) SQGs (generators who generate greater than 100 kilograms and 
less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste in a calendar month). The 
regulations for CESQGs were established at Sec.  261.5, while those for 
SQGs were moved to Sec.  262.34 (d)-(f). Similarly the title of Sec.  
261.5 was changed to read, ``Special requirements for hazardous waste 
generated by conditionally exempt small quantity generators'' [emphasis 
added]. The language of Sec.  261.5(h) did not change when the SQG 
regulations were promulgated, while paragraph (i) was modified slightly 
to read: ``If any person mixes a solid waste with a hazardous waste 
that exceeds a quantity exclusion level of this section, the mixture is 
subject to full regulation.'' The phrase ``any person'' was substituted 
for the phrase ``small quantity generator.''
    EPA believes that the readability of these regulations could be 
improved, particularly for paragraph (i), to expressly state whether 
the regulation applies to situations where the hazardous waste being 
mixed exceeds the CESQG quantity exclusion level or to situations where 
the mixture exceeds the CESQG quantity exclusion level. Additionally, 
``full regulation,'' could be interpreted as regulation commensurate 
with an LQG, even if the resultant mixture exceeds CESQG quantity 
levels, but not SQG quantity levels.
    For these reasons, EPA is proposing to modify the language 
regarding mixing of non-hazardous waste with hazardous waste by CESQGs 
(which is currently

[[Page 57929]]

located at Sec.  261.5(h) and (i)) to make these points clear. 
Specifically, it states that a CESQG may mix listed or characteristic 
hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste and remain eligible for the 
conditional exemption provided that either of the following is true: 
\32\ (1) The mixture does not exhibit any of the characteristics of 
hazardous waste identified in subpart C of part 261 of this chapter; or 
(2) the mixture does not cause the generator to exceed the very small 
quantity generator calendar month quantity limits identified in the 
definition of very small quantity generator at Sec.  260.10.\33\
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    \32\ EPA is proposing to use the term ``very small quantity 
generator (VSQG)'' in place of ``conditionally exempt small quantity 
generator.'' See section VI.B of this preamble for more information.
    \33\ This regulatory citation is the proposed new location for 
the definition of a VSQG. See section VI.B of this preamble for more 
information.
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    For example, if a CESQG mixed 50 kilograms of characteristic 
hazardous waste with 100 kilograms of non-hazardous waste and the 
resultant 150 kilograms mixture did not retain the characteristics of 
hazardous waste, then the generator could still comply with the CESQG 
conditions. However, if a CESQG mixed 50 kilograms of characteristic 
hazardous waste with 100 kilograms of non-hazardous waste and the 
resultant 150 kilograms mixture did retain the characteristics of 
hazardous waste, then the generator would no longer be a CESQG, but an 
SQG, and the generator would need to comply with all applicable 
regulations for an SQG for that calendar month. Similarly, if a CESQG 
mixed 50 kilograms of characteristic hazardous waste with 1,000 
kilograms of non-hazardous waste and the resultant 1,050 kilograms 
mixture retained the characteristics of hazardous waste, then the 
generator would no longer be a CESQG, but an LQG, and the generator 
would need to comply with all applicable regulations for an LQG for 
that calendar month.\34\
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    \34\ Additionally, the generator would have to comply with the 
SQG or LQG regulations for as long as its total quantity of 
hazardous waste accumulated on-site was greater than or equal to the 
CESQG accumulation limit of 1000 kg.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA notes that the regulations covering mixing of hazardous and 
non-hazardous waste would apply regardless of when the initial wastes 
are generated. In other words, when a generator mixes a hazardous waste 
with a non-hazardous waste, the generator may have changed the 
properties of the hazardous waste and thus must make a hazardous waste 
determination on the resultant mixture. For example, if a CESQG mixed 
50 kilograms of characteristic hazardous waste that it generated at 
different points over the last three months with 100 kilograms of non-
hazardous waste and the resultant mixture did retain the 
characteristics of hazardous waste, then the generator would no longer 
be a CESQG at the point that the mixture was generated, but an SQG, and 
the generator would need to comply with all applicable regulations for 
an SQG for that calendar month during which the mixing occurred. The 
time period for the accumulation of wastes begins at the point the 
mixture is generated and the generator becomes a SQG.
    In modifying the language, the Agency is not changing the intent of 
the existing hazardous waste regulations, but is improving the 
readability of the regulatory text. Thus, this change in language does 
not impose any additional burden on CESQGs.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The reorganization of the generator 
regulations would move these provisions to 262.14(b). The 
reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
2. LQGs and SQGs That Mix a Non-Hazardous Waste With a Hazardous Waste 
(40 CFR 261.3)
    LQGs and SQGs are subject to the mixture rule in Sec.  261.3. In 
short, the mixture rule has three parts: (1) If non-hazardous waste is 
mixed with listed hazardous waste, then the mixture is considered the 
listed hazardous waste (Sec. Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv) and 261.3(b)(2)); 
(2) if non-hazardous waste is mixed with listed hazardous waste that is 
listed solely for exhibiting an ignitability, corrosivity, or 
reactivity characteristic in part 261 subpart C (such as F003 hazardous 
waste), then the mixture is considered hazardous waste only if it 
exhibits a characteristic (Sec.  261.3(g)(2)(i)); and (3) if non-
hazardous waste is mixed with characteristic hazardous waste, then the 
mixture is considered hazardous waste only if the mixture exhibits a 
characteristic of hazardous waste (Sec.  261.3(b)(3)) (45 FR 33066, May 
19, 1980; 66 FR 27266, May 16, 2001).
    However, because the mixture rule appears in Sec.  261.3 and the 
SQG and LQG regulations appear in 40 CFR part 262, the regulated 
community may not totally appreciate how the mixture rules apply to 
SQGs and LQGs. Therefore, EPA is proposing to include references in 
Sec. Sec.  262.16(c) and 262.17(f) that assist SQGs and LQGs with 
finding the regulations applicable to the mixing of hazardous waste 
with non-hazardous waste. Additionally, EPA wants to modify the 
regulations to improve understanding of what circumstances an SQG may 
mix hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste and still remain subject 
to the SQG requirements.
    Specifically, EPA is proposing to add a provision for SQGs that 
states that a small quantity generator may mix its hazardous waste with 
non-hazardous waste and remain eligible for the conditional exemption 
applicable to a small quantity generator under two circumstances: (1) 
The mixture is not a hazardous waste according to the mixture rules in 
Sec. Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv), 261.3(b)(2), 261.3(b)(3), and 
261.3(g)(2)(i); or (2) if the mixture is a hazardous waste, the mixture 
does not cause the generator to exceed the small quantity generator 
quantity limits for a calendar month, as identified in the definition 
of small quantity generator at Sec.  260.10.\35\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \35\ This regulatory citation is the proposed new location for 
the definition of SQG. See section VIII of this preamble for more 
information.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For example, if an SQG mixed 100 kilograms of listed hazardous 
waste (that was not listed solely for the ignitability, corrosivity 
and/or reactivity characteristic) with 1,000 kilograms of non-hazardous 
waste, then the resultant 1,100 kilogram mixture would be considered a 
listed hazardous waste and the generator would no longer be an SQG, but 
rather an LQG. The generator would then need to comply with all 
applicable regulations for an LQG for that month during which the SQG 
mixed the waste.\36\
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    \36\ Additionally, a generator would have to comply with the LQG 
regulations for as long as its total quantity of hazardous waste 
accumulated on-site was greater than or equal to the SQG 
accumulation limit of 6000 kg.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    However, if an SQG mixed 100 kilograms of either characteristic 
hazardous waste or listed hazardous waste (that was listed solely for 
the ignitability, corrosivity and/or reactivity characteristic) with 
1,000 kilograms of non-hazardous waste and the resultant 1,100 
kilograms mixture did not retain the characteristics of hazardous 
waste, then the generator could still comply with the SQG regulations 
because the resulting mixture would no longer be considered a hazardous 
waste (although it would still be subject to applicable land disposal 
restriction requirements in 40 CFR part 268).
    EPA is also proposing to add a provision for LQGs that states that 
mixtures of hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste are subject to the 
mixture rule in Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv), (b)(2) and (3), and (g)(2)(i).
    In modifying the language, the Agency is not changing the existing 
hazardous waste regulations, but is improving the readability of the

[[Page 57930]]

regulatory text. Thus, this change does not impose any additional 
burden on SQGs and LQGs.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. EPA is proposing to address the mixing 
regulations for SQGs at Sec.  262.16(c) and the mixing regulations for 
LQGs at Sec.  262.17(f). The reorganization is discussed in section 
XIII of this preamble.
3. Request for Comment
    The Agency requests comment on whether the proposed language for 
CESQGs and SQGs improves the understanding of the regulations regarding 
how mixtures of non-hazardous waste and hazardous waste would affect 
the generator category for CESQGs and SQGs. Additionally, EPA requests 
comment on whether the proposed language for LQGs assists LQGs in more 
easily finding the applicable mixture regulations.

C. Allowing CESQGs To Send Hazardous Waste to LQGs Under the Control of 
the Same Person

    EPA is proposing to allow CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to 
an LQG that is under the control of the same person, as defined at 
Sec.  260.10, provided both the CESQG and LQG comply with specified 
conditions.\37\
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    \37\ EPA is also proposing to rename ``CESQG'' to ``VSQG'' (very 
small quantity generator) (see section VIII.A.1 of the preamble for 
more information). However, for this discussion, we continue to use 
CESQG as this term is most familiar to the regulated community.
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1. Purpose
    Under the existing regulations at Sec.  261.5(f)(3) for acute 
hazardous waste, and Sec.  261.5(g)(3) for non-acute hazardous waste, a 
CESQG may either treat or dispose of its hazardous waste on site or 
ensure delivery to an off-site treatment, storage, or disposal 
facility, which can include RCRA-permitted hazardous waste facilities, 
interim status hazardous waste facilities, municipal solid waste 
facilities, non-municipal non-hazardous waste facilities, recycling 
facilities, and universal waste handlers. The existing CESQG 
regulations do not allow a generator to send its hazardous waste off 
site to another generator, unless the receiving generator has a storage 
permit or is otherwise one of the types of facilities cited above. 
Thus, persons looking to reduce their overall environmental liability 
across multiple sites are prohibited from managing their CESQG 
hazardous waste at one or more of their LQG sites without first 
obtaining a permit or complying with the interim status standards, both 
of which would increase regulatory burden and costs.
    EPA believes that allowing CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to 
an LQG that is under the control of the same person would provide an 
additional option for CESQGs to manage their hazardous waste. It may 
also improve the management of that hazardous waste for four main 
reasons.
    First, LQGs are subject to more stringent management conditions, 
such as accumulation time, labeling, training, emergency planning, and 
containment standards, as compared to CESQGs. In addition, LQGs may 
only transport hazardous waste to a RCRA-permitted or interim status 
hazardous waste TSDF, which in turn, is subject to more stringent 
management standards than the municipal or non-municipal solid waste 
facilities that CESQGs are allowed to use. Therefore, allowing 
hazardous waste generated by a CESQG to be sent to an LQG under the 
control of the same person could improve overall oversight and 
management of the hazardous waste and enable more effective 
environmental protection. Furthermore, a company, because of economies 
of scale, may reduce its overall waste management costs, as well as its 
potential financial liabilities for hazardous waste it generates at 
CESQG facilities, as it would be handled under the more comprehensive 
LQG and TSDF regulatory programs.
    Second, whereas LQGs have up to 90 days to accumulate hazardous 
waste in compliance with all the LQG conditions for exemption without 
having to obtain a RCRA storage permit or comply with all the other 
standards otherwise applicable, CESQGs may accumulate up to 1,000 
kilograms of non-acute hazardous waste or up to 1 kilogram of acute 
hazardous waste or up to 100 kilograms of residues from the cleanup of 
a spill of acute hazardous waste without any time constraint. Even 
though the amount of hazardous waste allowed on site by CESQGs at any 
one time is limited, the longer that hazardous waste is accumulated on 
site the greater the risk of adverse impacts to human health and the 
environment. Allowing CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to an LQG 
under the control of the same person may reduce the overall time that 
the CESQG accumulates hazardous waste on site, which would further 
reduce the potential risk to human health and the environment.
    Third, this proposed change would allow consolidation by an LQG of 
hazardous waste generated by several CESQGs under its control, which 
increases the potential opportunities for hazardous waste recycling by 
the LQG.
    Fourth, this proposed change would give companies flexibility in 
allocating labor and resources required to manage the company's total 
quantity of hazardous waste generated, as the company would be allowed 
to consolidate its hazardous waste from CESQG facilities at its LQG 
sites.
    EPA has received requests over the years from industry for the 
regulations to allow CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to LQGs for 
consolidation. EPA believes that such a change in the regulations would 
enable generators to employ greater control over the management of 
their hazardous waste, thereby resulting in improved efficiency and 
reduced liability for the generator. EPA believes numerous situations 
exist where CESQGs and LQGs under the same ownership could take 
advantage of this proposed change. For example, Army National Guard and 
Reserve units that may be CESQGs would have the opportunity to send 
their hazardous waste to an active Army base that is an LQG. The same 
situation applies to Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps reserve units as 
well. Additionally, many universities have engineering, medical, and 
science laboratories located on campus, with each laboratory building 
possibly qualifying as a CESQG. Allowing different laboratory buildings 
within a university or industrial environment that are CESQGs to send 
their hazardous waste to another university or industrial entity that 
is an LQG would provide both economic and environmental benefits. 
Furthermore, utilities, retailers, and remote oil and gas production 
facilities also represent examples of industrial sectors that may 
realize benefits from the intra-company transfer of hazardous waste 
from CESQGs to LQGs.
2. Scope
    As discussed above, EPA is proposing to amend the regulations under 
the existing regulatory framework at Sec.  261.5(f)(3) and (g)(3) to 
allow CESQGs to send hazardous waste to an LQG under the control of the 
same person.\38\ ``Person'' is defined in Sec.  260.10 to mean an 
individual, trust, firm, joint stock company, federal agency, 
corporation (including a government corporation), partnership, 
association, state, municipality, commission, political subdivision of 
a state or any interstate

[[Page 57931]]

body. For the purposes of this section, ``control'' would mean the 
power to direct the policies of the facility, whether by the ownership 
of stock, voting rights, or otherwise, except that contractors who 
operate facilities on behalf of a different person shall not be deemed 
to ``control'' such facilities.
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    \38\ EPA is proposing to reorganize the regulations for CESQGs 
by moving provisions from Sec.  261.5 to Sec.  262.14. The proposed 
revision to allow CESQGs to send hazardous waste to LQGs under 
control of the same person can be found at Sec.  262.14(b)(3)(viii).
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    The Agency believes limiting transfers to facilities under control 
of the same person is appropriate because it ensures common control is 
maintained over both facilities and takes advantage of strong 
incentives to ensure the hazardous waste is safely managed. 
Additionally, if a CESQG sends hazardous waste to an LQG under the 
control of the same person, the LQG is likely to be familiar with the 
type of hazardous waste generated by the CESQG. Furthermore, questions 
regarding liability and responsibility for such hazardous waste are 
likely to be clearer than is the case with facilities from unrelated 
companies.
    EPA is also proposing some labeling and marking standards for CESQG 
waste being transferred to LQGs under the control of the same person 
under this provision. Note that aside from these two conditions, the 
same standards for management of CESQG waste apply to materials going 
to an LQG under this provision as to other CESQG waste, including the 
exemption from the requirement to ship using a hazardous waste 
manifest. DOT shipping requirements do still apply.
3. Conditions for Exemption
Condition for Exemption for CESQGs
    As part of this provision, CESQGs would be required to meet the 
following conditions for exemption, proposed at Sec.  262.14(a)(viii).
    Under control of the same person. As described above, the CESQG and 
the LQG would have to be under control of the same person, according to 
the existing definitions in Sec.  260.10.
    Labeling and marking of containers. The Agency is proposing that a 
CESQG transferring waste to an LQG under the control of the same person 
label its containers with (1) the words ``Very small quantity generator 
hazardous waste''; (2) other words that identify the contents of the 
containers (e.g., the name of the chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or 
``methylene dichloride'' or the type or class of chemical, such as 
``organic solvents'' or ``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as 
applicable, the proper shipping name and technical name markings used 
to comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements at 49 
CFR part 172 subpart D); (3) an indication of the hazards of the 
contents of the container, such as the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 
172 subpart E (labeling); a label consistent with the Occupational 
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard 
at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard label consistent with the 
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code 704; a hazard 
pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized 
System (GHS); or any other marking and labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that would alert workers and emergency 
responders to the nature of the hazards associated with the contents of 
the containers; and (4) the applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) 
(EPA hazardous waste code) in subparts C and D of part 261 to assist 
the receiving LQG in managing the hazardous waste received. This 
condition is also consistent with the changes proposed for labeling and 
marking of containers in the revisions to 40 CFR parts 262, 263, and 
268 discussed in various sections elsewhere in this preamble. A 
generator subject to DOT shipper/carrier packaging requirements should 
be familiar with and aware of the marking requirements at 49 CFR 
172.301 and 49 CFR 172.304, as well as prohibited labeling and label 
visibility requirements at 49 CFR 172.401 and 172.406, respectively.
    Because the hazardous waste generated and accumulated by a CESQG 
will be subsequently sent off site to an LQG under the same company in 
compliance with DOT hazardous material regulations, the CESQG may 
choose to use an appropriate DOT proper shipping name found in the 49 
CFR 172.101 hazardous materials table to identify the contents of the 
container while hazardous waste is accumulating on site. That way, the 
generator will fulfill EPA and DOT requirements simultaneously; 
however, EPA is not proposing to require the use of the DOT shipping 
names while the hazardous waste is accumulating on site. We only 
suggest that the DOT shipping name may be one way that some generators 
may choose to identify the contents of the container.
    EPA believes use of the DOT marking requirement should be 
sufficient in many situations involving DOT Class 9 hazardous materials 
that are also hazardous waste, with the DOT shipping name ending in 
N.O.S. (not otherwise specified). As noted at 49 CFR 172.301(b), 
generators using a DOT shipping name ending in N.O.S. must also provide 
the technical name of the hazardous material in association with the 
proper shipping name. However, the Agency is requesting comment on 
examples of when the DOT shipping name would not meet EPA's intent of 
``identifying the contents of the container'' and suggestions for 
addressing this situation.
    EPA believes that CESQGs should label and mark containers of 
hazardous waste sent to LQGs in order to communicate the contents of 
the containers to facility personnel that can then safely manage the 
hazardous waste in compliance with the LQG regulations. Since CESQGs 
already must make a hazardous waste determination to determine if and 
what types of hazardous waste they generate, the Agency does not 
believe this condition will pose an undue burden. In fact, if the CESQG 
was not required to provide this information, the burden to the LQG 
receiving the hazardous waste may increase because the LQG would then 
have to do so.
Conditions for Exemption for LQGs
    EPA is proposing that LQGs receiving hazardous waste from CESQGs 
under the control of the same person comply with the following 
conditions for exemption, all proposed at Sec.  262.17(g).
    a. Notification. EPA is proposing that LQGs receiving hazardous 
waste from CESQGs under the control of the same person submit a 
notification to EPA or their authorized state using EPA form 8700-12 
(i.e., the Site Identification (Site ID) form) 30 days prior to 
receiving the first shipment of hazardous waste from the CESQG. LQGs 
would be required to identify in the Comments section of the Site ID 
form the name(s), site address(es), and contact information for the 
CESQG(s) that will be transferring hazardous waste to the LQG. LQGs 
would also be required to submit an updated Site ID form within 30 days 
should the name, site address, or contact information for the CESQG 
change.
    Notification in this instance serves to inform the regulatory 
authorities of which LQGs are receiving hazardous waste from which 
CESQGs under control of the same person. The Agency believes 
notification is necessary in order to communicate to inspectors the 
origin of the hazardous waste received by the LQG and to ensure that 
the received shipment is managed in compliance with the conditions of 
the provision. EPA also believes that notification by the LQG, rather 
than notification by the CESQG, is more efficient and less burdensome, 
because LQGs are already required to submit

[[Page 57932]]

Site ID forms as part of obtaining a RCRA Identification Number and as 
part of the biennial reporting process. Additionally, it is more 
efficient for one LQG to notify on behalf of many CESQGs.
    EPA has recently made available an electronic interface for states 
and the regulated community to use to submit Site ID forms 
electronically, which will further reduce burden on LQGs. Facilities 
should check with their states regarding whether their state will use 
EPA's electronic submittal process.
    b. Recordkeeping. LQGs would be required to maintain records for 
three years from the date the hazardous waste was received from the 
CESQG with the following information:
     The name, site address, and contact information for each 
CESQG; and
     A description of each waste shipment received from the 
CESQG, including the quantity, EPA hazardous waste number(s) of each 
waste received, and the date the hazardous waste was received.
    EPA believes recordkeeping is necessary to ensure the requirement 
that the CESQG and LQG are under control of the same person is met, as 
well as to ensure that the hazardous waste from the CESQG is managed 
according to the other conditions for exemption of this provision, such 
as that LQGs are receiving shipments of hazardous waste from CESQGs in 
quantities commensurate with the CESQG's generator category. EPA 
believes this recordkeeping condition could be fulfilled through 
routine business records, such as a bill of lading, and would not 
present undue burden to the LQG. Additionally, the LQG could use this 
information in order to report the hazardous waste from the CESQG on 
its biennial report forms.
    c. Labeling and marking of containers. The Agency is proposing that 
LQGs comply with the labeling and marking conditions for exemption 
under proposed Sec.  262.17(a)(5), including the date accumulation 
started (i.e., the date the hazardous waste was received from the 
CESQG). (Note: These are the same proposed standards that CESQGs must 
comply with in labeling and marking containers that they send to LQGs, 
as discussed above.) If the LQG is consolidating incoming hazardous 
waste from a CESQG with either its own hazardous waste or with 
hazardous waste from another CESQG, the LQG would be required to mark 
each container with the earliest date any hazardous waste in the 
container was accumulated on site.
    Because the LQG must manage the hazardous waste it receives from 
CESQGs according to the LQG regulations, EPA believes that the same 
labeling and marking regulations should apply to hazardous waste from a 
CESQG that is accumulated and managed by an LQG. EPA believes that it 
is important that employees, transporters, downstream handlers, 
emergency personnel, EPA, and the states know as much as possible about 
the potential hazards of the contents in containers that LQGs 
accumulate, transport, and manage.
    d. Waste management. Under this proposal, an LQG would be required 
to manage all incoming hazardous waste from a CESQG in compliance with 
the regulations applicable to its LQG generator category. In other 
words, there would be no difference in how the hazardous waste from a 
CESQG was managed relative to the management of the LQG's own hazardous 
waste, although hazardous waste from a CESQG would not be eligible for 
management under the satellite accumulation regulations (proposed Sec.  
262.15).
4. Biennial Reporting
    An LQG would also be required to report the hazardous waste it 
receives from CESQGs on its biennial report, as required under Sec.  
262.41. EPA plans to include a new source code in the biennial report 
instructions (if this provision is made final) that LQGs would use to 
identify the hazardous waste as being received from a CESQG (to 
differentiate from hazardous waste the LQG generates on site). 
Generators would be required to report hazardous waste they receive 
from CESQGs by type of hazardous waste. In other words, if an LQG 
receives the same type of hazardous waste from multiple CESQGs, it 
would only need to report the total quantity of that hazardous waste 
received from all CESQGs. This provision is consistent with the 
existing provision that LQGs must report information on the quantities 
and types of hazardous waste they generate as part of the biennial 
reporting process. It will also enable states and EPA to better 
understand the additional volumes and types of hazardous wastes managed 
at an LQG, which will assist in prioritizing compliance assistance.
5. No Maximum Limit of Hazardous Waste LQGs Receive From CESQGs
    Because LQGs currently have no maximum limit on the amount of 
hazardous waste they can accumulate, and because the regulations that 
are applicable to LQGs are protective, the Agency believes there is no 
need to establish a maximum limit on the amount or types of hazardous 
waste that an LQG could receive from CESQGs. In fact, we believe the 
more hazardous waste that is shipped to LQGs, the greater potential for 
reduced risk, since these hazardous wastes would be managed under the 
more comprehensive hazardous waste regulations, as opposed to 
potentially being sent to non-hazardous waste disposal facilities.
6. Enforcement
    EPA believes the proposed conditions to allow CESQGs to send their 
hazardous waste to an LQG under the control of the same person are 
necessary to ensure protection of human health and the environment. 
Failure to meet one or more of the conditions could lead to potential 
mismanagement of the hazardous waste, potentially resulting in a 
release of hazardous waste or hazardous waste constituents to the 
environment. Persons taking advantage of the proposed provision that 
fail to meet one or more of the conditions for exemption would be 
subject to an enforcement action under RCRA section 3008 for violations 
of applicable independent requirements in part 264, 265, 267, 268, and 
270. EPA and authorized states would also have the authority to cease 
certain transfers of hazardous waste from CESQGs to an LQG in the 
context of an enforcement action. EPA also notes that failure on the 
part of the LQG to meet one of the conditions for exemption would not 
mean that the CESQG is subject to permitting or other standards in 264, 
265, and 270, provided that the CESQG met its conditions for exemption 
and vice versa.
7. Interstate Shipments
    Under RCRA, authorized state programs may be more stringent than 
the federal program and thus states may choose not to adopt the 
proposed provision allowing CESQGs to send their hazardous waste to an 
LQG under the control of the same person. In the case of interstate 
shipments where a CESQG wants to transfer its waste to an LQG located 
in a different state than the CESQG, the CESQG must ensure that both 
states have adopted the provision in order to ship the hazardous waste 
to an LQG. Additionally, if a CESQG wants to transfer its waste through 
states that have not adopted the proposed provision, these transit 
states may also impose state requirements on the shipment while it is 
being transported through the state. Therefore, EPA recommends that 
generators contact any states through which the hazardous

[[Page 57933]]

waste will be shipped to ascertain their policy about such shipments.
8. Request for Comment
    EPA requests comment regarding its proposal to allow CESQGs to ship 
their hazardous waste to an LQG under the control of the same person.
    EPA is also requesting comment on whether to establish a process 
that would allow an entity (whether CESQG or LQG) to request approval 
from its EPA Regional Administrator or the authorized state to transfer 
hazardous waste from CESQGs to LQGs that are not under the control of 
the same person. For example, such inter-company transfers could occur 
between high school laboratories and university laboratories or other 
waste management companies, such as those assisting with school 
chemical clean-outs. While the Agency believes that this should not be 
allowed as a general matter, we also recognize that there may be 
instances where such an arrangement may be appropriate, and thus, are 
taking comment on allowing such arrangements on a case-by-case basis. 
EPA is interested in whether such inter-company transfers would produce 
the same benefits as for intra-company transfers in enabling greater 
control over the management of CESQG hazardous waste, thereby resulting 
in improved efficiency and reduced liability for the generator.
    The request for approval submitted to the state or Regional office 
would have to include the name, address, and contact information for 
each entity involved in the arrangement, how the entities will assign 
responsibility for the safe management of the hazardous waste during 
transport to and accumulation by the LQG, as well as a description of 
the actual practices that will be followed by the CESQG and LQG to 
ensure the safe management of the hazardous waste. EPA does not believe 
that these requests for approval would need publication in the Federal 
Register and, instead, would either be approved or denied by the EPA 
Regional Administrator or the authorized state. If a request is granted 
by the EPA Regional Administrator or the authorized state, the CESQG(s) 
and LQG would need to comply with the conditions discussed above for 
those CESQGs and LQGs that are ``under control'' of the same person. In 
addition, the LQG would need to keep a copy of the request for 
approval, as well as EPA's or the state's approval for as long as the 
CESQG sends their hazardous waste to the LQG.
    EPA is requesting comment on an additional variation for allowing 
LQGs to consolidate CESQG hazardous waste when the generators are not 
under the control of the same person with a self-implementing request 
for approval. Under this variation, the implementing agency would have 
sixty days from the date the request was sent to approve or deny it. 
After sixty days, the generator may start consolidating regardless of 
whether it has heard back from the implementing agency. This option 
provides the state or Regional office the ability to deny requests that 
pose a risk to human health or the environment or that come from 
entities that have a history of not managing waste responsibly, but 
puts a limit on how long a generator must wait for a response to its 
request for approval.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The reorganization of the generator 
regulations would move the conditions for CESQGs from Sec.  261.5 to 
Sec.  262.14 and the conditions for LQGs from Sec.  262.34 to Sec.  
262.17. The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.

D. Requiring Biennial Reporting for Owners or Operators of Facilities 
That Recycle Hazardous Waste Without Storing It (40 CFR 261.6(c)(2))

    EPA is proposing to modify 40 CFR 261.6(c)(2) to require owners or 
operators of facilities that recycle hazardous waste without storing it 
prior to recycling to comply with the biennial reporting requirements 
at 40 CFR 265.75. Because these entities receive hazardous waste using 
a hazardous waste transporter and hazardous waste manifest, similar to 
a permitted TSDF or a facility with interim status, the Agency is 
proposing to amend its regulations and instructions to specify that 
such facilities must complete and submit a biennial report to EPA. 
Without this information, the Agency and states may have an incomplete 
picture of which facilities recycle hazardous waste and the quantities 
of regulated hazardous wastes that are recycled, impeding their ability 
to provide adequate oversight for those facilities.
    The Agency believes that only a few recycling facilities will be 
affected by this change. Additionally, considering that most facilities 
already have sophisticated information systems to manage and track 
incoming shipments of hazardous waste, we believe the burden imposed on 
such facilities should be minimal.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed change. Additionally, 
the EPA is interested in information regarding whether these facilities 
already routinely submit biennial reports or are required by the states 
to submit biennial reports.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

VIII. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 262--Standards Applicable to 
Generators of Hazardous Waste

A. Proposed Addition of Terms Used in This Part and Changes to Purpose, 
Scope, and Applicability (40 CFR 262.1 and 262.10)

    As previously discussed, one of the objectives of this proposal is 
to revise the hazardous waste generator regulations to make them more 
user-friendly and easily understood by both the regulated community and 
federal and state regulators. Currently, the hazardous waste generator 
regulations are located primarily in three different parts of the CFR 
(40 CFR parts 261, 262, and 265). In some cases, it is difficult to 
determine what components of the regulations apply to different 
categories of hazardous waste generators.
    The proposed reorganization will address many of these problems by 
moving the regulations at Sec.  261.5 and some of the technical 
standards of part 265 into part 262 and by organizing the regulations 
based on a generator's category so generators can more easily determine 
which regulations they are subject to. That is, EPA is proposing that 
Sec.  262.14 contain conditions for exemption for conditionally exempt 
small quantity generators, that Sec.  262.15 contain conditions for 
exemption for satellite accumulation areas, that Sec.  262.16 contain 
conditions for exemption for small quantity generators, and that Sec.  
262.17 containing conditions for exemption for large quantity 
generators.
    In concert with the reorganization of the generator conditions for 
exemption, EPA is proposing to add some regulatory language to more 
clearly explain how the regulations work for generators and to lay out 
which provisions the various categories of generators are responsible 
for complying with. The proposed addition of Sec.  262.1 and the 
proposed revisions to Sec.  262.10 are meant to achieve these goals.
1. Proposed Addition of 40 CFR 262.1
    One concern regarding the current generator regulations is that 
they are not sufficiently clear about the distinction between the two 
types of generator requirements: Those that a generator must meet 
because it is an entity that generates hazardous waste--independent 
requirements--and those that a generator must meet only if it

[[Page 57934]]

wants the benefits of an exemption from RCRA permitting--conditions for 
exemption. In order to make the regulations clearer regarding this 
distinction, EPA is proposing to include definitions for these terms in 
a new section of the regulations at Sec.  262.1.
    The difference between independent requirements and conditions for 
exemption, as discussed previously in this preamble, lies in the nature 
of each, and in the consequences that result when each is not met. An 
independent requirement is an unqualified or unconditional requirement 
imposed without reference or regard to obtaining an optional exemption 
from regulation. That is, independent requirements must be met whether 
or not the generator accumulates hazardous waste. An independent 
requirement is applicable and enforceable, independent of whether the 
generator is attempting to obtain an exemption.
    A condition for exemption, on the other hand, is a requirement that 
is contingent in nature, in that it is only necessary to meet in order 
to obtain an optional exemption from other requirements. As an example, 
the regulations in Sec.  262.34(a) introduce the conditions of the LQG 
exemption by stating that the LQG may accumulate hazardous waste on 
site for 90 days or less without a permit or without having interim 
status, provided that it meets the conditions listed in that paragraph.
    This distinction is relevant because while an entity can 
``violate'' and be penalized for violating an independent requirement, 
an entity cannot be penalized for not complying with a condition for an 
optional exemption. Instead, if the entity does not comply with the 
conditions of the exemption, that exemption no longer applies and the 
entity becomes subject to full regulation. Violation of an independent 
requirement, such as an SQG failing to obtain an EPA identification 
number, can result in a notice of violation and enforcement action for 
that particular provision. Noncompliance with a condition for 
exemption, such as an LQG accumulating hazardous waste for more than 90 
days, however, can result in an entity losing its conditional status 
and becoming the operator of a non-exempt storage facility subject to 
the applicable requirements for storage facilities in parts 124, 264, 
265, 267, 268 and 270, and for generators in part 262.
    EPA is proposing to define an ``independent requirement'' as a 
requirement of any of part 262 that states an event, action, or 
standard that must occur or be met and that applies without relation 
to, or irrespective of, the purpose of obtaining a conditional 
exemption from a permit or having interim status under Sec.  262.14, 
262.15, 262.16, or 262.17.
    EPA is proposing to define a ``condition for exemption'' as any 
requirement in Sec.  262.14, 262.15, 262.16, or 262.17, that states an 
event, action, or standard that must occur or be met in order to obtain 
a conditional exemption from any requirement in parts 124, 262 through 
268, or 270, or from any requirement for notification under section 
3010 of RCRA.
    We will be using these terms throughout this preamble to 
distinguish between these two types of provisions for generators.
    EPA is requesting comment on this proposed change to the 
regulations, particularly whether it clarifies implementation of the 
generator regulations by industry and the regulating entities.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
2. Proposed Changes to 40 CFR 262.10(a)
    As part of the reorganization of the generator regulations, Sec.  
262.10(a), which addresses the purpose, scope, and applicability of the 
hazardous waste generator regulations, will list which generator 
provisions are independent requirements and which are conditions for a 
generator exemption from part 124, from the applicable standards of 
parts 264 through 268, from the permitting requirements of part 270, 
and from section 3010 of RCRA.
    Specifically, EPA is proposing two changes to Sec.  262.10(a): (1) 
Stating that a hazardous waste generator is subject to all the 
applicable independent requirements of part 262 and listing those 
independent requirements and (2) stating that a generator that 
accumulates hazardous waste on site is also considered to be a facility 
storing hazardous waste unless it meets the conditions for one of the 
generator exemptions in Sec.  262.14, 262.15, 262.16, or 262.17.
    a. Independent requirements. As stated above, under the RCRA 
hazardous waste program, certain regulations are independent 
requirements and certain regulations are conditions for exemption from 
RCRA permitting and the interim status standards.
    To be clear about the distinctions between these types of 
standards, EPA is proposing to state at Sec.  262.10(a)(1) that a 
person who generates a hazardous waste as defined by 40 CFR part 261 is 
subject to all the applicable independent requirements in the subparts 
and sections listed, unless the person is a conditionally exempt small 
quantity generator (or ``very small quantity generator,'' in the 
terminology of the proposed rule) that meets the conditions for 
exemption in Sec.  262.14. This new addition will reinforce to 
generators that they must meet these independent requirements whether 
or not they accumulate hazardous waste on site.
    b. Conditional exemption for CESQG, SQG, and LQG. The RCRA 
hazardous waste generator regulations provide generators that 
accumulate hazardous waste on site with exemptions from the hazardous 
waste permitting standards and compliance with interim status standards 
in 40 CFR parts 264 and 265, provided certain conditions are met.
    Therefore, EPA is proposing to state at Sec.  262.10(a)(2) that a 
generator that accumulates hazardous waste on site is also considered a 
facility that stores hazardous waste, unless it is excluded because it 
meets the conditions of being a generator. The paragraph then lists the 
generator categories and where to find the relevant conditions for 
each, in Sec.  262.14, 262.16, or 262.17.
    These proposed changes to Sec.  262.10 do not constitute 
substantive changes to the hazardous waste generator regulations. 
Rather, these changes simply reorganize the independent requirements 
and conditions for exemption applicable to all hazardous waste 
generators based on their generator category into one section of the 
regulations. EPA also believes these changes will reduce confusion for 
the regulated community in the context of enforcement actions. It has 
been the Agency's longstanding position that generators that do not 
comply with a condition of a generator exemption fail to qualify for 
the exemption and, if they have not qualified for any other exemption, 
they would be considered an operating TSDF without a permit and/or in 
violation of the storage facility operating standards in parts 264 or 
265. The Agency believes this proposed reorganization will improve the 
use of and compliance with the regulations.
    EPA is requesting comment on these proposed changes.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The reorganization is discussed in section 
XIII of this preamble.
3. Proposed Deletion of Sec.  262.10(c)
    Section 262.10(c) of the hazardous waste regulations is a provision 
that describes the requirements for a generator who treats, stores, or 
disposes of hazardous waste on-site and includes

[[Page 57935]]

a list of provisions these generators must comply with. EPA believes 
that this provision in the regulation is outdated and confusing and can 
be removed. EPA is proposing to delete and reserve this paragraph.
    When Sec.  262.10(c) was initially promulgated on February 26, 
1980, the hazardous waste generator regulations distinguished between 
the generators that sent hazardous waste to be managed off site and 
those that managed their hazardous waste on site. Generators that sent 
hazardous waste off site could manage it for 90 days in an accumulation 
area, but generators that managed hazardous waste on site were expected 
to manage it under their permits or under interim status regulations. 
The purpose of Sec.  262.10(c) was to provide the list of requirements 
that generators managing hazardous waste were required to follow in 
addition to those permits or interim status requirements.
    This distinction meant that the two types of generators had very 
different standards for the areas where newly generated hazardous waste 
was managed. Significantly, generators sending hazardous waste off site 
could easily make physical changes to their accumulation areas, whereas 
a similar generator managing hazardous waste on site under a permit had 
to go through the permit modification process to make the same kind of 
changes. EPA effectively eliminated the distinctions by revising these 
regulations (45 FR 76624, November 19, 1980 and 47 FR 1248, January 11, 
1982). The final rule promulgated in January 11, 1982, made a change to 
Sec.  262.10(c) that added the generator accumulation provisions at 
Sec.  262.34 to the list of things a generator who treats, stores, or 
disposes of hazardous waste on site must comply with. Currently, the 
Agency does not make this distinction between generators that send 
waste for treatment off site and those that manage waste on site. This 
revision is therefore outdated and not well understood and can be 
deleted and reserved without disruption to the generator hazardous 
waste regulations.
    EPA seeks comment on whether anyone is using this provision or has 
objection to its removal and what the reasoning for that objection is.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This proposed deletion is 
not affected by the proposed reorganization.
4. Generators Are Subject To Enforcement of Applicable Requirements and 
Penalties Under Section 3008 of RCRA if They Fail To Meet the 
Independent Requirements Made Applicable by the Failure To Obtain a 
Conditional Exemption (40 CFR 262.10(g))
    The existing regulation at Sec.  262.10(g) states that a generator 
is subject to the compliance requirements and penalties prescribed in 
section 3008 of [RCRA] if it does not comply with the requirements of 
that part. However, this paragraph does not expressly state that a 
generator that is not meeting the conditions of its exemption--and is, 
therefore, an illegal TSDF--is liable under section 3008 of RCRA for 
failing to meet the requirements for TSDFs in parts 124, 264 through 
268, and 270.
    Therefore, EPA is proposing to revise Sec.  262.10(g) to state that 
a generator is subject to enforcement of the applicable requirements 
and penalties under section 3008 of RCRA if it fails to meet its 
applicable independent requirements under part 262: Sec.  262.11 
(Hazardous waste determinations and recordkeeping), Sec.  262.12 
(Obtaining an EPA identification number), part 262 subpart B 
(Manifest), Sec. Sec.  262.30 through 260.33 (Pre-transport) and part 
262 subpart D (Recordkeeping and reporting). The new language would 
further explain that a generator is subject to enforcement of the 
applicable requirements and penalties under section 3008 of RCRA if it 
fails to meet the applicable requirements of parts 124, 263 through 
268, and 270, including such requirements made applicable when such 
person is not meeting the conditions of the generator exemption.
    EPA is requesting comment on these proposed changes.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
5. Proposed Deletion of Laboratory XL Project Regulations (40 CFR 
262.10(j) and Part 262 Subpart J)
    The Laboratory XL Project was created for Boston College, the 
University of Massachusetts, and the University of Vermont, and was 
finalized in the Federal Register on September 28, 1999 (64 FR 53292). 
Originally, the program was to expire on September 30, 2003. But on 
June 21, 2006, EPA extended the program and the new expiration date was 
changed to April 15, 2009 (71 FR 35550). Since the program has now 
expired, EPA is proposing to remove paragraph (j) from Sec.  262.10, as 
well as part 262 subpart J.
    EPA is requesting comment on this proposed change.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
6. Generators Shall Not Transport to a Non-Designated Facility
    The Agency is proposing to add a new provision at Sec.  
262.10(a)(3) that would clearly and succinctly state that a generator 
cannot offer or otherwise cause its waste to be sent to a facility that 
is not authorized to accept it.
    As the Agency has stated numerous times in the development and 
implementation of the RCRA hazardous waste program, a fundamental 
aspect of the program is the responsibility placed on the generator of 
hazardous waste to ensure its hazardous waste is properly managed from 
cradle to grave. Numerous existing regulatory provisions are designed 
to ensure that generators send their hazardous waste only to authorized 
TSDFs or other authorized facilities. See for example, Sec. Sec.  
262.12(c), 262.20(b), 262.40(a). However, from experience with the 
program, the Agency has found situations where a generator failed to 
send its hazardous waste to a facility authorized to receive that 
waste, thus creating both regulatory and potential hazardous waste 
mismanagement problems. The Agency believes this provision is necessary 
to ensure generators understand they have this obligation and, for that 
reason, is placing it in the initial provisions of the generator 
regulations.
    This provision is being added to the regulatory framework and not 
replacing Sec. Sec.  262.12(c), 262.20(b), 262.40(a), as those 
provisions are aimed at other aspects of the generator program (for 
example, ensuring manifests are properly completed).
    The Agency requests comment on adding this new provision.

B. Waste Determinations (40 CFR 262.11)

    EPA is proposing to revise the hazardous waste determination 
regulations at Sec.  262.11 in order to provide a more complete 
explanation of the regulation and improve compliance by hazardous waste 
generators. The proposed changes are intended to provide more 
information about when a waste determination must be made, as well as 
to better explain the methods and procedures for generators to 
determine whether they have a listed hazardous waste or a 
characteristic waste. The proposed changes also address some 
deficiencies in the current recordkeeping regulations.

[[Page 57936]]

    Specifically, the proposed changes discussed in this section are 
the following: (1) Confirming that a generator's waste must be 
classified at its point of generation and, for wastes potentially 
exhibiting a hazardous characteristic, at any time during the course of 
its management when the properties of the wastes may change; (2) 
revising the language on making a determination for a listed hazardous 
waste in Sec.  262.11 to explain more fully how generators can make 
this kind of determination, including use of acceptable kinds of 
generator knowledge; (3) explaining more completely in the regulations 
in Sec.  262.11 how a generator should evaluate its waste for hazardous 
characteristics; (4) moving the independent recordkeeping and retention 
requirements for hazardous waste determinations currently found at 
Sec.  262.40(c) into Sec.  262.11 to integrate this provision more 
directly into the hazardous waste determination regulations; (5) 
revising the hazardous waste determination recordkeeping regulations to 
require that SQGs and LQGs maintain records of any test results, waste 
analyses, or other determinations made in accordance with Sec.  262.11 
for at least three years, including waste determinations where a solid 
waste (as defined in Sec.  261.2) is found not to be a RCRA hazardous 
waste (as defined in Sec.  261.3); (6) revising the hazardous waste 
determination regulations by copying Sec.  262.40(d) into Sec.  262.11 
to address situations where an enforcement action has been initiated 
and the period of record retention (e.g., three years from when the 
record was generated) must be extended automatically during the course 
of any unresolved enforcement action regarding the regulated activity 
or as requested by the Administrator; and (7) making clear at the very 
beginning of Sec.  262.11 that the hazardous waste determination must 
be accurate.
    In addition, EPA is asking for comment in this section on two 
additional potential changes regarding the accuracy of hazardous waste 
determinations and the length of time records must be maintained.
    Finally, EPA discusses the potential development of an electronic 
decision making tool for hazardous waste determinations and takes 
comment on whether that would be a helpful tool to generators.
    The revisions proposed at Sec.  262.11 are designed to improve 
compliance by generators in making a hazardous waste determination for 
their solid wastes. To a great extent, the success of the RCRA 
hazardous waste regulatory program begins with and relies on generators 
making this determination. Failure to make an accurate hazardous waste 
determination may lead to mismanagement of the waste, with potential 
adverse consequences to human health and the environment. As described 
below, generators may have a difficult time making an accurate 
hazardous waste determination for a variety of reasons.
    Many of the proposed changes at Sec.  262.11 derive from policy 
statements and clarifications the Agency has made through the years in 
FR notices, guidance documents, and policy letters to help explain how 
hazardous waste determinations should be made. The proposed changes 
also derive from issues identified in EPA's 30 years of experience 
implementing the RCRA hazardous waste program.
1. Background
    The regulations at Sec.  262.11 require generators of solid waste 
(as defined at Sec.  261.2) to determine whether their waste is also a 
hazardous waste. Under RCRA, a solid waste may be hazardous if it is 
either listed as hazardous or exhibits a hazardous waste 
characteristic. Listed hazardous wastes are wastes that the Agency has 
specifically evaluated and determined may present a risk to human 
health and the environment, if improperly managed. Such wastes can be 
generated by specific processes of particular industries or by many 
different types of industry (e.g., spent degreasing solvents) or 
hazardous commercial chemical products being discarded as surplus, off 
specification, or for another reason. Wastes that exhibit any of the 
four hazardous characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, 
toxicity) are also classified as hazardous. Hazardous wastes are 
subject to a number of handling and disposal requirements intended to 
prevent them from damaging human health or the environment.
    Once a generator has determined from Sec.  261.2 that it has 
generated a solid waste, the regulations at Sec.  262.11 currently 
provide the following method for a generator to determine if a waste is 
a hazardous waste:
    (1) It should first determine if the waste is excluded from 
regulation under the exclusions found in 40 CFR 261.4.
    (2) It must then determine if the waste is listed as a hazardous 
waste in subpart D of 40 CFR part 261. Note that even if the waste is 
listed, the generator still has an opportunity under 40 CFR 260.22 to 
demonstrate to the Administrator that the waste from his particular 
facility or operation is not a hazardous waste.
    (3) For purposes of compliance with the land disposal restrictions 
in 40 CFR part 268, or if the waste is not listed in subpart D of 40 
CFR part 261, the generator must then determine whether the waste is 
identified in subpart C of 40 CFR part 261 by either:
    (A) Testing the waste according to the methods set forth in subpart 
C of 40 CFR part 261, or according to an equivalent method approved by 
the Administrator under 40 CFR 260.21; or
    (B) Applying knowledge of the hazard characteristic of the waste in 
light of the materials or the processes used.
    (4) Finally, if the waste is determined to be hazardous, the 
regulations state that the generator must refer to parts 261, 264, 265, 
266, 267, 268, and 273 of this chapter for possible exclusions or 
restrictions pertaining to management of the specific waste.
    A generator's responsibility begins with applying due diligence 
through knowledge of its processes, feedstocks, and wastes generated, 
and/or testing to make an accurate hazardous waste determination for 
the solid waste it has generated (see Sec.  261.2). The Agency 
considers the application of the above information (e.g., knowledge of 
the production processes, feedstocks, and wastes generated and/or 
information from testing) to be acceptable types of generator 
knowledge. Failure to consider any relevant types of knowledge could be 
viewed critically if a situation arose in which a particular 
generator's waste determination came under scrutiny. Once a 
determination has been made that a generator's solid waste is a 
hazardous waste, then the generator can initiate the process of 
quantifying the total amount of hazardous waste generated in a calendar 
month to determine its generator category, and from that, determine the 
regulations with which it must comply. If an incorrect hazardous waste 
determination is made (i.e., a hazardous waste is identified as non-
hazardous), there is a strong possibility that the waste will not be 
managed appropriately, potentially leading to environmental releases 
and damage.
    From experience with the waste determination program, the Agency 
has found that there are a number of situations in which generators may 
misclassify their wastes. In some cases, generators overlook certain 
wastes that are unrelated to their production processes, discarding 
them in the trash without realizing that they have discarded a 
hazardous waste. In other cases, generators may not understand how the 
hazardous waste characteristics or listings regulations may apply to 
the waste. There are also instances in which

[[Page 57937]]

generators have not even known that RCRA and its regulations apply to 
their wastes.
    States have also identified difficulties generators have in making 
hazardous waste determinations as a concern. A study conducted by the 
State of New Hampshire found that generators often overlooked hazardous 
wastes they had generated apart from their main production operations, 
for example, solvent-contaminated wipes and aerosol 
cans.39 40
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    \39\ A final rule for solvent-contaminated wipes was published 
in the Federal Register on July 31, 2013. This rule provides an 
exclusion from the definition of solid waste for solvent-
contaminated wipes that are recycled and an exemption from the 
definition of hazardous waste for discarded wipes provided specific 
conditions are met (78 FR 46447).
    \40\ Summary of Waste Determination Meetings with VT and NH 
State Officials on September 27-28, 2010.
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    The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) has also 
highlighted this problem in one of its publications, stating ``Many 
solid waste streams at facilities tend to be overlooked as hazardous 
wastes because the solid waste usually does not resemble what one would 
think a hazardous waste looks like [i.e., wastes that are not a liquid 
chemical waste (rags, absorbents, or filters); or wastes that are not 
directly generated in manufacturing process (universal wastes, 
computers, electronics, or sludge in drains or sumps); wastes that are 
newly regulated (electronics); or wastes that are similar to household 
hazardous wastes (mercury thermometers, aerosol cans, batteries, and 
lamps), which are excluded as hazardous waste in accordance with Sec.  
261.4(b)(1).].'' \41\
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    \41\ ``10 Most Common Hazardous Waste (RCRA) Violations in 
Georgia: 40 CFR 262.11 ``Hazardous Waste Determination,'' Georgia 
Department of Natural Resources https://epd.georgia.gov/sites/epd.georgia.gov/files/related_files/site_page/guidehwdet.pdf.
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    The importance of generators making an accurate hazardous waste 
determination cannot be over-emphasized. In 2013, a contractor for EPA 
completed a third-party program evaluation of the hazardous waste 
determination regulations to better understand the reasons generators 
may have difficulty making reliable hazardous waste determinations.\42\ 
This study involved examining national compliance statistics associated 
with hazardous waste determinations and meeting with representatives of 
three state programs--Texas, Minnesota, and Colorado--and the regulated 
community in those states. Questions focused on rates of non-compliance 
with the hazardous waste determination regulations, obstacles to 
generator compliance, the role of state waste management programs and 
the role of third parties, such as environmental services companies or 
industry trade organizations. The interviewers also solicited 
stakeholder recommendations for improvement of the waste determination 
regulations.
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    \42\ Hazardous Waste Determination Program Evaluation, IEc, 
April 2013. http://www.epa.gov/evaluate/pdf/waste/haz-waste-determination.pdf.
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    The evaluation reported the following findings. First, the average 
non-compliance rate with the RCRA hazardous waste determination 
regulations across the United States is approximately 34 percent. This 
figure is based on an analysis of hazardous waste determination 
violations during EPA compliance inspections recorded in EPA's RCRAInfo 
data system from 2001 to 2011.\43\ These results are supported by the 
results of other EPA analyses. For example, in a review of inspection 
reports of the foundry sector by EPA's Office of Compliance, EPA found 
26 of 69 facilities, or 38 percent, with hazardous waste determination 
violations.\44\ Additionally, an EPA analysis of inspections at CESQG 
facilities conducted by the State of Kansas inspectors for the 2009-
2012 time period found a waste determination non-compliance rate of 21 
percent, and an EPA analysis of inspections of Iowa CESQG facilities 
conducted by EPA Region 7 inspectors for the same time period found a 
waste determination violation rate of 36 percent.45 46
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    \43\ RCRAInfo is EPA's national repository for hazardous waste 
generation and management data.
    \44\ ``Review of RCRA Inspection Report Practices,'' May 2007.
    \45\ EPA administers Iowa's hazardous waste program.
    \46\ Iowa CESQG Inspections 2009-2012, October 2012; Kansas 
CESQG Inspections 2009-2012, December 2012.
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    Probably the most comprehensive analysis involved examining all 
compliance evaluation inspections of LQGs, SQGs, and CESQGs conducted 
by both the EPA Regions and the states for fiscal years 2008-2012.\47\ 
Of the 62,003 compliance evaluation inspections conducted during that 
time period, EPA and the states found 8,148 waste determination 
violations, resulting in a non-compliance rate of 13.1 percent. While 
the estimates of waste determination violation rates vary somewhat 
across the studies examining them, all of them identify violation rates 
that are significant.
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    \47\ State Compliance Evaluation Inspections (CEI) for FY 2008-
2012.
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    The evaluation also discussed a number of implementation challenges 
that lead to non-compliance with the hazardous waste determination 
regulations. The evaluation identified 30 recurring themes that 
describe various obstacles, challenges, and factors that influence 
hazardous waste generators' compliance with the hazardous waste 
determination regulations. These 30 themes fall into three overarching 
categories: (1) Challenges related to the regulations; (2) challenges 
related to generators; and (3) challenges related to regulatory 
agencies.\48\
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    \48\ Hazardous Waste Determination Program Evaluation, IEc, 
April 2013. http://www.epa.gov/evaluate/pdf/waste/haz-waste-determination.pdf.
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    The Agency is proposing changes intended to address the two 
challenges identified that are related to the regulations. These are 
(1) difficulty understanding the regulations as written and (2) 
difficulty interpreting and applying the regulations to specific 
circumstances. The proposed changes to Sec.  262.11 are intended to 
elaborate on the meaning and intent of these regulations to make them 
easier for generators to understand. We believe the better 
understanding resulting from these changes will also make it easier to 
appropriately apply the requirements to a broader range of specific 
circumstances.
2. Improvements to the Existing Hazardous Waste Determination 
Regulations
    EPA's evaluation of the waste determination regulatory program 
noted that improving compliance in making accurate waste determinations 
is a multi-faceted problem. The Agency believes improving the clarity 
of the regulatory text is an important step because it represents the 
foundation from which all subsequent EPA and state outreach, technical 
assistance and enforcement efforts begin. In this regard, EPA 
identified several particular areas for possible improvements to the 
current regulations:
    --Confusion about where and when to make a hazardous waste 
determination, particularly when further management of that material 
may result in a change in the hazardous waste determination.
    --Sec.  262.11(b), which relates to whether or not a solid waste is 
a listed hazardous waste, does not describe how a generator should 
determine if the material in question is a listed hazardous waste.
    --Sec.  262.11(c) states that a generator can either test its waste 
or use process knowledge or knowledge about its waste to determine 
whether a solid waste is a characteristic hazardous waste.

[[Page 57938]]

However, there is little guidance in the regulation on using knowledge 
to classify waste.
    --The existing regulatory text notes that test methods are included 
in the hazardous characteristic definitions in subpart C of part 
261,but does not note that tests are not provided for all aspects of 
the hazardous characteristics identified there.
    The Agency has provided guidance on these issues over the past 30 
years and through these proposed regulatory revisions intends to 
incorporate key aspects of that guidance into the regulatory language.
    Finally, EPA is proposing to address deficiencies in the 
recordkeeping for hazardous waste determinations. These deficiencies 
include both a lack of specificity regarding what materials used in a 
hazardous waste determination must be maintained and lack of a specific 
statement that the independent requirement to maintain records is 
extended when there is an unresolved enforcement action. In addition, 
there are large number of hazardous waste determinations for which 
records are not being kept because the generator determines that the 
material in question is not a hazardous waste. Failure to maintain 
records in these cases makes it difficult for regulatory agencies to 
determine how a generator made the determination and to quickly assess 
whether the determination is accurate.
3. When and Where To Make a Hazardous Waste Determination
    To respond to generator concerns about identifying the most 
appropriate point at which to make a hazardous waste determination, EPA 
is proposing to revise Sec.  262.11 to add a paragraph (a), which would 
state that a hazardous waste determination must be made at the point of 
waste generation (i.e., when the material becomes a solid waste).\49\ 
The RCRA statute makes clear that the term ``hazardous waste 
generation'' means the act or process of producing hazardous waste.\50\ 
By requiring that the initial hazardous waste determination be made at 
the point of generation, the regulation clarifies that the 
determination cannot be made downstream in the process where other 
materials could be mixed with the waste or where the waste changed its 
physical characteristics simply as a result of time elapsing affecting 
the hazardous waste determination. This standard must be met even in 
instances in which another entity, such as a waste management facility, 
makes the waste determination on behalf of the generator.
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    \49\ A material must be a solid waste before it can be a 
hazardous waste under RCRA.
    \50\ See Solid Waste Disposal Act, Sec. 1004, page 9.
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    The 1980 preamble to the original hazardous waste regulations 
explicitly discussed this scenario, stating that a solid waste which is 
a hazardous waste because it is listed in part 261 subpart D must begin 
to be managed as a hazardous waste when it first meets the subpart D 
listing description. The preamble explains that most of the hazardous 
wastes listed in Sec. Sec.  261.31 and 261.32 of subpart D (the F-list 
and the K-list) are process residues, emission control dusts, or 
wastewater treatment sludges and the point in time when they are 
created is generally well defined. For other hazardous wastes, such as 
spent solvents or those hazardous wastes listed in Sec.  261.33, the 
point at which they meet the listing description is somewhat less well 
defined, but generally occurs when their intended use has ceased and 
they begin to be accumulated or stored for disposal, re-use, or 
reclamation. The preamble then goes on to provide several examples 
illustrating how this provision would operate in practice (45 FR 33095-
96, May 19, 1980).
    The 1980 regulatory preamble also addressed this issue for 
characteristic hazardous waste. In defining what waste is considered 
hazardous, Sec.  261.3(b)(3) states that ``a solid waste becomes a 
hazardous waste . . . when the waste exhibits any of the 
characteristics.'' EPA elaborated on this regulatory definition in 1980 
by noting that ``paragraph (b) provides that a solid waste is a 
hazardous waste whenever it exhibits one or more of the 
characteristics. As a practical matter, this means that persons 
handling solid waste must determine whether they meet the 
characteristics whenever the management of the waste would be subject 
to EPA's part 262-265 regulations'' (45 FR 33095, May 19, 1980).
    This implies that a generator's waste characterization obligations 
may continue beyond the determination made at the initial point of 
generation. In the case of a non-hazardous waste that may, at some 
point in the course of its management, exhibit a hazardous waste 
characteristic, there is an ongoing responsibility to monitor and 
reassess its regulatory status if changes occur that may cause the 
waste to become hazardous. Thus, the generator must monitor the waste 
for potential changes if there is reason to believe that the waste may 
physically or chemically change during management in a way that might 
cause the waste, or a portion of the waste, to become hazardous.
    The preamble to the final rule for the toxicity characteristic 
reiterated that the current rules require that the determination of 
whether a waste is hazardous is to be made at the point of its 
generation (i.e., when the material becomes a solid waste).\51\ In the 
preamble to that rule, EPA stated that it believes that the 
determination of the regulatory status of a waste at the point of 
generation continues to be appropriate and that EPA was retaining the 
existing approach of requiring that a determination be made at the 
point of generation (55 FR 11830, March 29, 1990).
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    \51\ A material must be a solid waste before it can be a 
hazardous waste under RCRA.
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    Thus, for determining whether a waste exhibits a hazardous 
characteristic, generators of solid waste are required to make a 
hazardous waste determination at the initial point of generation, in 
the form the waste is generated in (i.e., ``as is''), following the 
procedure described in Sec.  262.11, which allows use of generator 
knowledge and/or testing, as appropriate. A generator's hazardous waste 
determination at the initial point of generation is critical to ensure 
proper management of the waste not only by the generator, but also by 
transporters and TSDFs who rely upon the generator's determination to 
allow them to safely manage the waste and provide appropriate 
treatment.\52\
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    \52\ Note that making a solid and hazardous waste determination 
is also applicable for the exemptions identified at Sec. Sec.  261.2 
and 261.4 since such exemptions negate the determination.
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    As an example, in a letter regarding a waste consisting of solvents 
mixed with water that separates and becomes biphasic over time, the 
Agency stated that in this situation, the generator must make the 
hazardous waste determination not only at the initial point of 
generation, but also after the waste separates into phases. This letter 
went on to say that a generator's responsibility to make a hazardous 
waste determination may continue beyond the determination made at the 
initial point of generation. In the case of a nonhazardous waste that 
may, at some point in the future, exhibit a hazardous waste 
characteristic, there is an ongoing responsibility to monitor and 
reassess if changes occur that may cause the waste to become hazardous.
    Again, if there is reason to believe that the waste may physically 
or chemically change during management in a way that might cause the 
waste, or portion of the waste, to become hazardous, the generator must 
monitor the waste for these changes. The generator should also notify 
any subsequent handlers of the waste so they are aware that they

[[Page 57939]]

should also monitor the waste for changes. This is analogous to and 
consistent with situations the Agency has discussed in the past such as 
when, over time, sludges that exhibit the characteristic of toxicity 
settle out of nonhazardous wastewaters managed in surface 
impoundments.\53\
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    \53\ Letter from Betsy Devlin, Director of EPA's Materials 
Recovery and Waste Management Division, to Gary Jones, Printing 
Industries of America, November 20, 2012, RCRA Online 14834.
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    Therefore, to clarify that hazardous waste determination must be 
made at the point of generation, the Agency is proposing to revise the 
regulations at 40 CFR 262.11 by adding a new paragraph (a) that would 
state that a hazardous waste determination for each solid waste must be 
made at the point of waste generation, before any dilution, mixing, or 
other alteration of the waste occurs, and at any time in the course of 
its management that it has, or may have, changed its properties as a 
result of exposure to the environment or other factors that may change 
the properties of the waste.
    This addition of paragraph (a) would change current Sec.  262.11(a) 
into Sec.  262.11(b) and bump all subsequent paragraphs in that 
section.
    EPA requests comments on the proposed changes to Sec.  262.11 and 
in particular is soliciting comment on whether the proposed new 
language is sufficient to improve the existing regulatory text and 
better assist generators in making effective hazardous waste 
determinations. Additionally, EPA is interested in comments regarding 
improvements the Agency could make to the proposed regulatory text.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
4. Determining Whether a Waste Is a Listed Hazardous Waste
    a. Identifying listed hazardous wastes. As a general matter, 
determining whether a waste is a listed hazardous waste consists of 
comparing the waste that the generator generates to the hazardous waste 
listing descriptions in Sec. Sec.  261.31 through 261.33. For many 
wastes, identifying the origin of the waste is sufficient to determine 
whether it is a listed waste and this determination is rather 
straightforward. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes 
additional information about the waste, the process that generated it 
(including production feedstocks), and the listing regulations is 
needed to make a reliable determination, including the following: (1) 
The regulatory language of the hazardous waste listing; (2) the 
regulatory intent of the original hazardous waste listing (as evidenced 
by FR notices and technical support documents and interpretative 
letters from the original listings); and (3) facts specific to the 
waste stream at issue.\54\
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    \54\ Note that once listed at Sec. Sec.  261.31-33 wastes remain 
listed as hazardous wastes unless and until they are delisted in 
accordance with Sec. Sec.  260.20 and 260.22 or unless they are 
specifically excluded from Sec.  261.3, regardless of their actual 
composition and constituent concentrations even if the manufacturing 
and/or treatment processes do not use any of the constituents for 
which the wastes were listed.
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    These three types of information can be considered as acceptable 
types of generator knowledge about a waste stream for making a 
hazardous waste determination. A November 20, 1997, Federal Register 
notice elaborates on the use of knowledge to make a listing 
determination--that is, determining whether a waste is a listed 
hazardous waste can be accomplished by comparing information on the 
waste stream origin with the RCRA listings set forth in 40 CFR part 261 
subpart D. These listings are separated into four major categories or 
lists and are identified by EPA hazardous waste numbers starting with 
the letters K, F, P, or U, depending on the category of the waste. The 
hazardous waste numbers are associated with a specific waste 
description, specific processes that generate the wastes, or certain 
chemical compounds. For example, EPA hazardous waste number K103 is 
defined as ``Process residues from aniline extraction from the 
production of aniline.'' A generator that produces such residues should 
know, without any sampling or analysis, that these wastes are 
``listed'' RCRA hazardous wastes by examining the K103 hazardous waste 
description in the hazardous waste lists and comparing this with the 
production process that generated the waste.
    Other hazardous waste listings describe wastes generated from 
generic processes that are common to various industries and activities. 
They include, for example, waste solvents (e.g., EPA hazardous waste 
numbers F001-F005), which are often used in the degreasing or cleaning 
processes of manufacturing operations, and thus are widely generated. 
EPA hazardous waste number F001 is a listed waste from a non-specific 
source that is defined by providing a list of spent halogenated 
solvents at a particular concentration before use and stating that they 
are F001 when used in degreasing. Because this listed waste is from a 
non-specific source, the generator would compare this listing 
description to any industry operation where solvent degreasing is 
conducted to determine whether this waste meets the specific listing 
description.
    Note that these spent solvents are regulated as hazardous under 
RCRA, but only if the total of all the solvent constituents before use 
is greater than or equal to ten percent of the material's volume. This 
adds a layer of complexity to the hazardous waste determination and 
requires that the generator have knowledge of the composition of the 
unused solvent before the waste is generated.
    Finally, the hazardous waste regulations include the ``derived 
from'' and ``mixture'' rules, which state that any solid waste derived 
from the treatment, storage, or disposal of a listed RCRA hazardous 
waste, or any solid waste mixed with a listed RCRA hazardous waste, 
respectively, is itself a listed RCRA hazardous waste until delisted 
(see Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv) and Sec.  261.3(c)(2)(i), respectively) (62 
FR 62082, November 20, 1997). The exception to these rules is when the 
waste is listed solely because it exhibits a hazardous waste 
characteristic, but the particular waste in question no longer exhibits 
any hazardous characteristic (Sec.  261.3(g)).
    b. Proposal to provide further explanation in regulatory text about 
listed waste determinations. The current regulation at Sec.  262.11(b) 
provides minimal information to generators for determining whether 
their waste is a listed hazardous waste. EPA is proposing that this 
paragraph be expanded and that it be redesignated as Sec.  262.11(c) to 
make room for existing paragraph (a) of Sec.  262.11, which would be 
redesignated as paragraph (b) under the proposed new regulatory 
framework at Sec.  262.11 and which addresses the generator 
determination of whether the solid waste it has generated is excluded 
from regulation under 40 CFR 261.4.
    The new Sec.  262.11(c) would identify the types of acceptable 
information that the generator could consider in evaluating its waste 
against the hazardous waste listing descriptions and would assist them 
in determining if they have generated a listed hazardous waste. This 
proposed paragraph would state that if the waste is not excluded under 
40 CFR 261.4, the person must then use knowledge of the waste to 
determine if the waste meets any of the listing descriptions under 
subpart D of 40 CFR part 261. Acceptable knowledge that may be used in 
making an accurate determination as to whether the waste is listed 
includes, but is not limited to, waste origin, composition, the process 
producing the waste, feedstock, and

[[Page 57940]]

other relevant information. If the waste is listed, the person may file 
a delisting petition under 40 CFR 260.20 and 260.22 to demonstrate to 
the Administrator that the waste from this particular site or operation 
is not a hazardous waste.
    EPA requests comments on these proposed modifications to Sec.  
262.11(c).
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization, but the contents of the current Sec.  
262.11(b) are proposed to be revised and moved to Sec.  262.11(c) to 
account for the proposed inclusion of a new Sec.  262.11(a).
5. Determining Whether a Waste Is a Characteristic Hazardous Waste
    The RCRA hazardous waste regulations identify four characteristics 
that can result in a hazardous waste classification: ignitability, 
corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. Wastes exhibiting any of these 
characteristics have EPA hazardous waste numbers starting with the 
letter ``D'' and the regulations defining these characteristics are at 
Sec. Sec.  261.20 through 261.24. The current Sec.  262.11 regulations 
identify two methods for determining whether a solid waste is hazardous 
because it exhibits a hazardous characteristic: (1) Testing of the 
waste or (2) using knowledge of the hazard characteristic and the 
materials and processes used in generating the waste. Further, even if 
a waste is a listed hazardous waste, the regulations require the 
generator to determine whether it also exhibits a hazardous 
characteristic to ensure that all waste treatment obligations under 
part 268 are met. This ensures that the waste can be treated to 
mitigate hazards posed by chemicals or properties for which it was 
listed, and also any characteristic hazards, which may be different 
from hazards that are the basis for listing.
    a. Use of testing to identify waste exhibiting a hazardous 
characteristic. The current regulations at Sec. Sec.  261.20 through 
261.24 describe two different ways to determine whether a solid waste 
is a hazardous waste because it exhibits certain characteristics. In 
some cases, the regulations identify specific test methods, the results 
of which can be used directly to determine whether the waste exhibits 
that characteristic (although testing is not required, and knowledge 
may be used). These include for example, the pH test for the 
corrosivity characteristic, the flashpoint test for liquids for the 
ignitability characteristic, and the toxicity characteristic leaching 
procedure (TCLP) for the toxicity characteristic. Other hazardous 
characteristics are defined narratively, such as the definitions for 
ignitable solids or oxidizers in the ignitability characteristic, and 
the reactivity characteristic. When there is no regulatory test, then 
knowledge of the waste's origin, production processes, feedstocks, 
chemical composition, and other relevant information is acceptable and 
necessary for determining whether wastes exhibit one of these 
characteristics. Testing that may illustrate and support identification 
of the properties of the waste (even though it is not part of the 
regulation) can be part of the generators' knowledge of the waste.
    The proposed language associated with testing at Sec.  262.11(d)(1) 
specifies that generators testing their waste must obtain a 
representative sample for testing, as defined at Sec.  260.10 and as 
required by all of the hazardous characteristic regulations. For those 
characteristics that include a specific test as part of the regulation, 
the results of that test, when properly performed and compared with 
regulatory thresholds, are definitive for determining whether the waste 
is hazardous. The tests specified by the regulations are available in 
EPA's ``Test Methods for Evaluation Solid Waste, Physical/Chemical 
Methods,'' EPA Publication SW-846. This document which contains all of 
OSWER's analytical methods, is available on EPA's Web site at: http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/testmethods/index.htm.
    When evaluating a waste for one of the hazardous characteristics 
for which there is a regulatory test, generators are not required to 
use the test provided the generators' knowledge about the waste is 
adequate to make a reliable determination about the RCRA status of the 
waste, as discussed in the next section. However, if a disagreement 
arises between a generator and an inspector about whether a particular 
waste is hazardous, we would recommend that the generator use the 
regulatory test, since the results of the test, when properly 
performed, should resolve such a disagreement.
    For those characteristics that do not include a specific test, but 
provide a narrative definition, the generator can use appropriate 
tests, such as those identified in SW-846 that identify hazardous 
properties as part of their knowledge about the waste to help determine 
whether the waste exhibits the hazardous waste characteristic. In 
addition, test methods used by DOT, the National Fire Protection 
Association, or other third-party testing organizations may be useful 
or relevant for evaluating a particular waste. However, the generator 
would need to show the relevance of the test to the waste evaluation.
    The Agency has discussed the use or requirement of testing in 
various Federal Register notices, guidance documents, and letters. In 
promulgating the toxicity characteristic regulations in 1990, EPA 
considered whether to require TCLP testing. However, the Agency 
determined that the flexibility of the current approach resulted in a 
more effective and practical program overall and that liability for 
incorrect determinations would provide a strong incentive for 
generators to not misclassify their wastes as non-hazardous (55 FR 
11829-30, March 29, 1990). In a 1992 letter, the Agency re-emphasized 
that generators are not required to test their waste to determine 
whether it is hazardous. As part of that letter, the Agency made clear 
that to ensure proper handling and treatment, the generator must 
identify all the hazardous characteristics a waste may exhibit as 
identified in part 261 subpart C.\55\ In another letter, the Agency 
discussed the importance of testing a representative sample of the 
waste, as required by the hazardous characteristics regulations.\56\ 
The introductory chapters (1-13) of SW-846 provide guidance on a number 
of important analytical issues, including development of sampling plans 
and sampling methods, as well as quality control and an overview of the 
different types of methods in the guidance.
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    \55\ Letter from Sylvia Lowrance, Director of EPA's Office of 
Solid Waste to Basil Constantelos, Safety-Kleen, October 28, 1992, 
RCRA Online 13570.
    \56\ Letter from Sylvia Lowrance, Director of EPA's Office of 
Solid Waste to James Maes, Blue Beacon International, Inc., May 1, 
1991, RCRA Online 11603.
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    b. Use of knowledge to identify waste exhibiting a hazardous 
characteristic. As we discussed previously with respect to the 
identification of listed hazardous wastes, EPA is also proposing to 
modify Sec.  262.11 to include the acceptable types of information that 
a generator can consider when applying generator knowledge for making 
hazardous waste determinations for potentially characteristic hazardous 
waste. Much of this information has been discussed in Federal Register 
notices and other guidance documents over the past 30 years.
    Specifically, several FR notices discuss what constitutes ``process 
knowledge'' for making a hazardous waste determination and include the 
following potential sources: (1) Waste analysis data or studies on 
wastes generated from processes similar to that

[[Page 57941]]

which generated the original waste; \57\ (2) waste analysis data 
obtained by TSDFs from the specific generators that generated the waste 
and sent it off site, and (3) waste analysis data obtained by 
generators or TSDFs from other generators, TSDFs, or areas within a 
facility that test chemically identical wastes.\58\ In addition, 
information about chemical and physical properties of manufacturing 
feedstocks or product contained in Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), 
or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) under OSHA's regulations implementing the 
UN Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of 
Chemicals (GHS), or other reliable data sources may be used to assist 
the generator in determining whether any of the product's constituents 
or properties would make it a characteristic waste, when discarded.\59\ 
Also, an FR notice from 2003 identifies still other information that 
the Agency has considered appropriate and useful in using knowledge to 
classify waste, including special handling of waste by the generator to 
temporarily prevent it from exhibiting a hazardous characteristic 
(e.g., keeping it either wet or dry to prevent reaction to air or 
water, respectively); testing using non-regulatory tests that may 
illustrate some of the waste's properties; classification under certain 
Department of Transportation hazardous material designations that may 
be similar to or overlap with RCRA hazardous characteristics, as well 
as identification of environmental damage attributable to mismanagement 
or disposal of the waste.60 61 All of the above examples are 
considered as acceptable types of knowledge that can be used by a 
generator.
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    \57\ 62 FR 62081-2, November 20, 1997; 58 FR 48111-12, September 
14, 1993.
    \58\ 62 FR 62081-2, November 20, 1997.
    \59\ Letter from Matt Hale, Director of EPA's Office of Solid 
Waste, to Michael Beckel, 3E Company, June 6, 2008, RCRA Online 
14790, and 68 FR 59940, October 20, 2003.
    \60\ 68 FR 59939-40, October 20, 2003.
    \61\ Test methods developed by the UN Committee on Transport of 
Dangerous Goods, the National Fire Protection Association, or others 
may be useful and relevant for evaluating a particular waste. 
However, the generator must show the relevance of the test to waste 
evaluation.
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    Some states have also provided guidance to their generators on some 
of the challenges of only using process knowledge. For example, the 
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection notes 
that although knowledge of process information can be very useful 
(especially in identifying hazardous constituents that are known to be 
present), it may not always be adequate to fully and properly 
characterize a waste. In particular, knowledge of the process may not 
account for factors such as trace contaminants that may not be listed 
on an MSDS (only chemicals present at concentrations greater than 1% 
are typically identified), contaminants introduced during use, and 
cross-contamination from other wastes. As a result, some sampling may 
be required by the state to properly characterize a waste.\62\
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    \62\ See Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Web 
site, Hazardous Waste Determinations/Knowledge of Process at http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2718&q=325422&deepNav_GID=1967.
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    Similarly, the Georgia DNR has highlighted some of the challenges 
of only using process knowledge. In particular, a GADNR publication 
states, ``Using [process] knowledge alone to make a hazardous waste 
determination may not always be adequate due to the variability of the 
waste, or the lack of knowledge of chemical processes in generating the 
waste. In those cases where the waste generated is variable, generators 
may choose to make a determination that the waste is hazardous waste 
rather than testing the waste each time it is generated. In addition, 
in the case of a hazardous waste that is always hazardous, but is 
characteristic for certain constituents at times, but not at others, 
the generator may choose to be inclusive of all potential waste codes, 
rather than test the waste each time it is generated. If the generator 
with a variable waste chooses not to treat the waste as described above 
in this paragraph, the waste must be tested as generated.'' \63\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \63\ ``10 Most Common Hazardous Waste (RCRA) Violations in 
Georgia: 40 CFR 262.11 ``Hazardous Waste Determination,'' Georgia 
Department of Natural Resources https://epd.georgia.gov/sites/epd.georgia.gov/files/related_files/site_page/guidehwdet.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Georgia DNR has also issued useful guidance for its generators 
regarding the testing and recordkeeping for waste, stating that, ``If 
test methods are used to determine if the waste exhibits a 
characteristic, a description of how the waste was sampled to obtain a 
representative sample and copies of the analytical results for that 
sample should be included as documentation of the hazardous waste 
determination. The generator may apply knowledge of the waste and the 
generation process to determine which constituents/parameters to 
include in analyses, as well as where and when sampling is most 
appropriate. However, if the full suite of analyses is not applied, the 
generator must have sufficient documentation to demonstrate why only 
certain analyses were applied, and not all. Adequate documentation 
includes a list of constituents/chemicals that make up the waste, their 
physical and chemical properties, the effects of the process on the 
product/materials in the waste, and whether the product/material picks 
up additional hazardous constituents (contaminants) in the process; all 
of which provide knowledge as to what constituents should be included 
in the analyses.'' \64\ Other states have also issued guidance 
illustrating the need for generators to understand the wastes they 
generate and to consider all factors affecting waste composition and 
properties in making hazardous waste determinations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \64\ ``10 Most Common Hazardous Waste (RCRA) Violations in 
Georgia: 40 CFR 262.11 ``Hazardous Waste Determination,'' Georgia 
Department of Natural Resources https://epd.georgia.gov/sites/epd.georgia.gov/files/related_files/site_page/guidehwdet.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    c. Proposal on using process knowledge. In consideration of the 
above discussion and to better assist generators in making hazardous 
waste determinations, EPA is proposing to revise the regulations 
associated with using knowledge to identify waste exhibiting a 
hazardous characteristic currently found at Sec.  262.11(c)(2). Under 
this proposed rule, Sec.  262.11(c)(2) would move to Sec.  262.11(d)(2) 
and would identify various types of information that EPA has identified 
in the past as potentially relevant and acceptable for making a RCRA 
waste determination, including information about chemical feedstocks 
and other inputs to the production process; knowledge of products, by-
products, and intermediates produced by the manufacturing process; 
chemical or physical characterization of wastes; information on the 
chemical and physical properties of the chemicals used or produced by 
the processor or otherwise contained in the waste; testing that 
illustrates the properties of the waste; or other reliable and relevant 
information about the properties of the waste or its constituents.
    A test other than a test method set forth in subpart C of 40 CFR 
part 261, or an equivalent method approved by the Administrator under 
40 CFR 260.21, is also acceptable and may be used as part of a person's 
knowledge to determine whether a solid waste exhibits a characteristic 
of hazardous waste. However, such tests do not, by themselves, provide 
definitive results and the generator may need to identify why the test 
is relevant.
    The Agency requests comments on the proposed changes associated 
with revising Sec.  262.11(c) and moving it to

[[Page 57942]]

Sec.  262.11(d). In particular, EPA requests comment on whether the 
proposed language is sufficient to improve the existing regulatory text 
and better assist generators in making more effective hazardous waste 
determinations or whether other improvements should be made to the 
proposed regulatory text.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization, but the contents of current Sec.  
262.11(c) are being revised and bumped to Sec.  262.11(d) to account 
for the new Sec.  262.11(a).
6. Documenting and Maintaining Records for Hazardous Waste 
Determinations
    The Agency is proposing to make one organizational change and 
several revisions to the recordkeeping provisions associated with 
making a hazardous waste determination, a provision found currently at 
Sec.  262.40(c). Section 262.40(c) currently states that a generator 
must keep records of any test results, waste analyses, or other 
determinations made in accordance with Sec.  262.11 for at least three 
years from the date that the waste was last sent to on-site or off-site 
treatment, storage, or disposal. This independent recordkeeping 
requirement is applicable to SQGs and LQGs only. CESQGs are not 
affected by this section.
    First, the Agency is proposing that this paragraph be moved to 
Sec.  262.11(e) to integrate this provision with the hazardous waste 
determination regulations in that section. Additionally, EPA is 
proposing to revise the wording to better articulate the types of 
information acceptable to making an accurate hazardous waste 
determination that must be maintained and to emphasize the importance 
of this section.
    These records must include, but are not limited to, the following 
types of information that have been used by the generator in making the 
waste determination: The results of any tests, sampling, or waste 
analyses; records documenting the tests, sampling, and analytical 
methods used and demonstrating the validity (or quality assurance/
quality control) and relevance of such tests; records consulted in 
order to determine the process by which the waste was generated, 
information on the composition of the waste and the properties of the 
waste; and records which explain the basis for the generator's 
determination as described at Sec.  262.11(d)(2).
    Second, the Agency is also restating that these records must be 
maintained for at least three years from the date that the waste was 
last generated by the facility and also stating that should the 
generator be involved in any unresolved enforcement action regarding a 
waste determination, then the periods of record retention are extended 
automatically or if requested by the Administrator. An ``unresolved 
enforcement action'' means any formal administrative, civil or criminal 
enforcement action which has been filed or issued against a generator 
by EPA or authorized state pursuant to RCRA subchapter III or VII and 
for which all rights of appeal have not been exhausted.
    Additionally, EPA is proposing to revise the wording of the section 
to better articulate the types of waste determination information that 
must be maintained and to emphasize the importance of this section. In 
an effort to improve compliance with the hazardous waste determination 
regulations, and therefore improve environmental protection, EPA is 
proposing to revise the recordkeeping regulations to require small and 
large quantity generators making a waste determination to document and 
maintain records of all their hazardous waste determinations, including 
determinations where a solid waste is found not to be a hazardous 
waste.\65\ In many respects, this proposed change also relates to the 
above proposed change in the regulations to clarify that generators 
must use due diligence in making a hazardous waste determination by 
applying process knowledge and/or testing results to the solid waste 
they generated. The Agency believes it is very important that 
generators make accurate hazardous waste determinations to avoid 
potential adverse impacts to human health and the environment from the 
possible mismanagement of hazardous waste. Therefore, we believe the 
benefits to human health and the environment far outweigh the minimal 
costs of requiring SQGs and LQGs to document hazardous waste 
determinations, including determinations where the solid waste was 
found not to be a hazardous waste.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \65\ As will be discussed later in this section, the Agency does 
not intend for this provision to apply to those generators that 
generate a solid waste that clearly has no potential to be a 
hazardous waste.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CESQGs would not be affected by this change. However, maintaining a 
copy of their hazardous waste determinations may be beneficial to a 
CESQG to support any questions posed during an inspection by EPA or 
state inspector, as well as to support their waste generator category. 
In analyzing Kansas and Iowa inspection data of CESQG facilities, 
instances were found where the generator failed to make an accurate 
hazardous waste determination resulting in the generator moving into a 
higher generator category and becoming subject to the regulations of 
either an SQG or LQG.
    The hazardous waste determination process is the gateway to the 
hazardous waste generator regulatory program and, to a great extent, 
its ultimate success. If a generator can accurately identify the types 
of hazardous wastes it generates, it can then identify the applicable 
regulations it must comply with to ensure safe management of that 
waste. Conversely, if a generator fails to make an accurate hazardous 
waste determination, that failure can potentially lead to the 
mismanagement of hazardous waste and environmental damages. In 
addition, the generator could then be cited in an enforcement action 
not only for that violation, but also for failing to comply with other 
generator regulations, including operating without a RCRA permit (see 
Sec.  262.34(a) and (d)).
    The Agency made this point clear when it initially promulgated the 
hazardous waste generator rules in February 1980, where it stated, 
``The determination is the crucial, first step in the regulatory 
system, and the generator must undertake this responsibility 
seriously'' (45 FR 12727, February 26, 1980). Unfortunately, as 
previously discussed, there is a high rate of noncompliance with the 
hazardous waste determination regulations.
    Under the current regulations at Sec.  262.40(c), a generator is 
required to document and maintain records of any test results, waste 
analyses, or other determinations made in accordance with Sec.  262.11 
for at least three years from the date that the waste was last sent to 
on-site or off-site treatment, storage, or disposal. When an inspector 
sees a container or other waste management unit, that inspector has the 
authority to ask the generator how it determined the regulatory status 
of the waste, and the generator should be able to articulate how that 
determination was made. In many instances, the inspector will also ask 
to see any documentation supporting a questionable determination that a 
material is not a hazardous waste in order to understand how the 
generator applied process knowledge or the results of testing the waste 
to support its non-hazardous waste determination.
    The Agency strongly believes that documentation must be maintained 
for waste determinations, not only when a solid waste is a hazardous 
waste but also when a solid waste is determined by the generator to not 
be a hazardous

[[Page 57943]]

waste. The primary obligation for generators is to accurately determine 
whether or not a solid waste is a hazardous waste. Requiring 
documentation of this determination, regardless of the outcome, is 
critical in ensuring compliance with the current hazardous waste 
determination regulations.
    The requirement that a generator maintain records of determinations 
that a solid waste is not a hazardous waste was originally discussed in 
the preamble to the 1978 proposed rule for the hazardous waste 
regulatory program. In fact, the Agency proposed the following at 40 
CFR 250.10(d)(1)(iii): ``Generators who determine that their waste is 
not hazardous shall retain copies of the evaluation performed and shall 
repeat the necessary evaluation or testing when there is a significant 
change in their feed material or operations which may alter the test 
results.'' (43 FR 58955, December 18, 1978). In the February 26, 1980, 
final rule for hazardous waste generators, however, the Agency did not 
make this requirement final. Rather, the Agency simply promulgated the 
provision stating that a generator must keep records of any test 
results, waste analyses, or other determinations made in accordance 
with Sec.  262.11 for at least three years from the date the waste was 
last sent to on-site or off-site treatment, storage or disposal (45 FR 
12734), which could be interpreted to mean either that a generator was 
required to keep records or that a generator was not required to keep 
records of solid wastes that were not hazardous wastes. (This provision 
is currently located at Sec.  262.40.)
    The Agency next discussed this issue in a March 29, 1990, Federal 
Register notice which clarified the rules by stating that recordkeeping 
for determinations that a solid waste was not a hazardous waste was not 
necessary. Specifically, the preamble to this final rule stated, ``If a 
waste is determined to be hazardous, the generator must keep records 
establishing the basis for that determination (40 CFR 262.40(c)). These 
records must be maintained for at least 3 years after the generator no 
longer handles the waste in question. Neither of these recordkeeping 
requirements, however, applies to solid waste generators who do not 
generate hazardous wastes'' (55 FR 11829, March 29, 1990).
    At the time the 1980 rules were finalized, the Agency had no 
experience with their implementation and whether documentation 
associated with determinations that a waste was not a hazardous waste 
was necessary. The Agency now believes that the original approach was 
insufficient. We now have 30 years of experience and compliance data to 
support an independent requirement that, as part of their obligation to 
determine whether a waste is hazardous under Sec.  262.11, generators 
need to keep records and documentation of their waste determinations, 
including determinations that a solid waste is not a hazardous waste.
    As an example, Georgia DNR requires that, in using generator 
knowledge, the determination must be valid, correct, and supported by 
documentation, especially when that determination is that the waste is 
not a hazardous waste or does not carry certain waste codes (contain 
certain contaminants).\66\ Even in cases where state regulations do not 
explicitly require documentation supporting a determination that a 
solid waste is not a hazardous waste, they will seek documentation 
supporting that determination when evidence suggests the material is a 
hazardous waste. Should documentation not be presented, EPA and the 
states will often take a sample to answer their own questions about 
waste status.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \66\ ``10 Most Common Hazardous Waste (RCRA) Violations in 
Georgia: 40 CFR 262.11 ``Hazardous Waste Determination,'' Georgia 
Department of Natural Resources https://epd.georgia.gov/sites/epd.georgia.gov/files/related_files/site_page/guidehwdet.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency does not believe requiring generators to retain 
documents used to make their non-hazardous waste determinations will 
pose an undue burden. In a review of 26 state waste determination 
regulations as well as discussions with several state agencies, the 
Agency found that 17 states already require documentation and 
recordkeeping of a solid waste that is not a hazardous waste.\67\ In 
EPA's discussions with states, several states mentioned that they 
interpret the term ``other determinations'' at Sec.  262.40(c) to mean 
determinations that a solid waste is not a hazardous waste. Further, 
generators should already have this information collected as part of 
their compliance with other parts of Sec.  262.11.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \67\ As an example, some states interpret the term ``other 
determinations'' at 40 CFR 262.40(c) to mean determinations that a 
solid waste is not a hazardous waste.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    An examination of biennial report data for a small sample of LQGs 
for both 2009 and 2011 reporting cycles demonstrated that the majority 
of generators generate the same hazardous waste streams from year to 
year. In other words, the Agency believes that, for the most part, SQGs 
and LQGs will make a hazardous waste determination once and will not 
need to make a new solid waste determination unless something changes 
in their process, thereby reducing the need to document waste 
determinations. This suggests that the burden of documenting a non-
hazardous waste determination should be relatively minimal.\68\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \68\ Assessment of the Potential Costs, Benefits, and Other 
Impacts of the Improvements to the Hazardous Waste Generator 
Regulatory Program, As Proposed, prepared for U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency by Industrial Economics, Incorporated, May 2015, 
page 3-8.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In light of the importance of making accurate hazardous waste 
determinations, and because of the high rates of non-compliance with 
Sec.  262.11 among generators, the Agency is proposing to modify Sec.  
262.11 to specifically require that SQGs and LQGs document and maintain 
records of all determinations, including determinations that their 
solid waste is not a hazardous waste. Again, the Agency is not 
proposing to apply this independent requirement to CESQGs.
    A key issue with this provision will be defining the scope of 
applicable entities for this requirement. First, documentation will not 
be required for entities that do not generate a solid waste, as defined 
by Sec.  261.2, or that generate a solid waste that has been excluded 
or exempted from RCRA Subtitle C controls. However, all potential 
entities, with the exception of households, must determine whether they 
generate a solid waste as defined by Sec.  261.2 for purposes of the 
existing RCRA hazardous waste regulations. Solid wastes under Sec.  
261.2 include spent materials, sludges, by-products, scrap metal, and 
commercial chemical products (CCPs) that are discarded. Specifically:
     Spent materials as defined in Sec.  261.1(c)(1), include 
any material that has been used and as a result of contamination can no 
longer serve the purpose for which it was produced without processing.
     Sludge, as defined in Sec.  260.10, means any solid, semi-
solid, or liquid waste generated from a municipal, commercial, or 
industrial wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or 
air pollution control facility.
     A by-product, as defined in Sec.  261.1(c)(3), is a 
material that is not one of the primary products of a production 
process and is not solely or separately produced by the production 
process. Examples are process residues such as slags or distillation 
column bottoms. The term does not include a co-product that is produced 
for the general public's use and is ordinarily used in the form it is 
produced by the process.

[[Page 57944]]

     Scrap metal, as defined in Sec.  261.1(c)(6), is bits and 
pieces of metal parts (e.g., bars, turnings, rods, sheets, wire) or 
metal pieces that may be combined together with bolts or soldering, 
which when worn or superfluous can be recycled.
     CCPs are those materials listed in Sec.  261.33 or those 
CCPs which exhibit one or more of the hazardous waste characteristics. 
The tern CCP includes those chemical substances which are manufactured 
or formulated for commercial or manufacturing use and consist of 
commercially pure grades of the chemical substance, any technical 
grades of the chemical substance that are produced or marketed, and all 
formulations in which the chemical substance is the sole active 
ingredient. CCPs do not include or refer to wastes, such as a 
manufacturing process residue, that contain any of the chemical 
substances.
    Where there is a potential for a discarded material to be a 
hazardous waste listed under part 261 subpart D or when the material 
may contain hazardous constituents that would exhibit a characteristic 
of hazardous waste (i.e., ignitability, reactivity, corrosivity or 
toxicity) under part 261 subpart C, these entities must make a 
hazardous waste determination and document that determination, 
including for those solid wastes that are not hazardous wastes.
    If an entity is generating a hazardous waste (and is, therefore, a 
hazardous waste generator) and if it is generating sufficient amounts 
of hazardous waste in a calendar month to be considered an SQG or an 
LQG, then these generators would be responsible for documenting 
determinations under this proposed revision.
    We would note that the existing hazardous waste regulations already 
require every generator to make a waste determination and that the only 
additional provision that this proposal is addressing is that they 
document that waste determination, including for those wastes that are 
not hazardous waste. The focus of this provision is on solid wastes 
that have the potential to be hazardous wastes. Thus, for the purposes 
of this proposed provision, the Agency is not interested in entities 
that generate solid wastes that clearly have no potential to be 
hazardous, such as food waste, restroom waste, or paper products. There 
are literally hundreds of thousands of entities who generate such 
wastes. In addition, lawyers and accountants, business offices, 
religious organizations, governmental organizations, engineering and 
architectural firms, among other sectors, are not meant to be impacted 
by this provision for everyday municipal waste that does not have the 
potential to be hazardous. Most elementary schools also should not be 
affected by this provision unless they have laboratories that use large 
amounts of hazardous chemicals where greater than 100 kilograms of non-
acute hazardous waste (or 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste) is 
discarded monthly or another source of potentially hazardous waste.
    In addition, as noted previously, for the purposes of this proposed 
provision, the Agency is not interested in entities that generate 100 
kilograms or less of non-acute hazardous waste or 1 kilogram or less of 
acute hazardous waste in a calendar month (e.g., CESQGs). The Agency 
requests comment on verifying the above sectors and identifying other 
industrial or non-industrial sectors where the probability is high that 
generators either do not generate solid wastes that would be identified 
or characterized as hazardous under RCRA, or if they do, they generate 
small enough amounts to most likely qualify as a CESQG.
    The Agency does not believe the cost of documenting a waste 
determination, whether non-hazardous waste or hazardous waste, will be 
substantial. As previously discussed, generators may use either the 
results of testing their waste or process knowledge to make a hazardous 
waste determination. If a generator tests its waste or hires a third 
party to do so, then the written results of those tests will be the 
documentation. Similarly, if generator knowledge is used to make the 
waste determination, then a statement describing what the basis of that 
knowledge was (e.g., information about chemical feedstocks and other 
inputs to the production process and how those chemical feedstocks may 
change when introduced into the production process; knowledge of 
products, by-products, and intermediates produced by the manufacturing 
process; chemical or physical characterization of wastes; information 
on the chemical and physical properties of the chemicals used or 
produced by the processor or otherwise contained in the waste; testing 
that illustrates the properties of the waste; or other reliable and 
relevant information about the properties of the waste or its 
constituents) will most likely be sufficient.
    In estimating the impact of requiring SQGs and LQGs to document 
their non-hazardous waste determinations, the Agency examined the 
relationship of the number of hazardous wastes generated per facility 
to non-hazardous waste generated per facility and established an 
approximate relationship of 60% to 40%. As part of this analysis, the 
Agency also found from examining the biennial report data that 50 
percent of LQGs generate from one to five hazardous waste streams 
annually and that many of these generators continue to generate the 
same waste streams from year to year.\69\ Therefore, for most LQGs, the 
incremental cost to document their non-hazardous waste determinations 
should be minimal. The Agency believes that many SQGs also generate the 
same waste streams from year to year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \69\ Assessment of the Potential Costs, Benefits, and Other 
Impacts of the Improvements to the Hazardous Waste Generator 
Regulatory Program, As Proposed, prepared for U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency by Industrial Economics, Incorporated, May 2015, 
page 3-8.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    However, from examining biennial report data, the Agency is also 
aware of situations where a generator generates many different 
hazardous waste streams each year. Examples include academic and 
industrial laboratories, chemical manufacturers, and TSDFs. As an 
example, an analysis of the 2011 Biennial Report identified 843 LQGs 
reporting that they generated 41 or more hazardous waste streams. This 
analysis derived an average of 17 hazardous waste streams being 
generated by LQGs. EPA can infer that these entities also generate 
numerous types of solid, but not hazardous, waste streams.\70\
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    \70\ A more detailed discussion of this analysis can be found in 
the Regulatory Impact Analysis that accompanies this preamble and 
that can be found in the docket to this rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Although TSDFs and chemical manufacturers may generate many 
different types of hazardous waste, many of them also have 
sophisticated protocols and testing procedures in place to make a 
hazardous waste determination. These processes should be sufficient to 
provide the proposed documentation to verify that the solid waste is or 
is not a hazardous waste. Other organizations may not and the Agency is 
interested in how best to address this important subject.
    The Agency believes that requiring SQGs and LQGs to document their 
non-hazardous waste determinations is important to the success of RCRA 
hazardous waste program in protecting human health and the environment. 
Additionally, the Agency believes the proposed change will encourage 
generators to develop better internal processes and improve overall 
compliance with the RCRA hazardous waste regulations. At issue is how 
best to implement this provision in the most cost-effective manner 
possible. Therefore, the Agency seeks comment

[[Page 57945]]

on how to balance the burden of recordkeeping with the benefits from 
ensuring waste is properly identified and managed.
    The Agency seeks comment from those generators that generate many 
new wastes each year, on ways that could be used to reduce burden while 
maintaining sufficient protection. The Agency also seeks comment on 
whether there are particular industrial sectors where many, if not 
most, solid wastes generated could be clearly determined not to be 
hazardous wastes and whether there are families of solid wastes where 
it is clear that they will not be hazardous wastes and thus can be 
eliminated from this provision.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization and is located at Sec.  262.11(e) of the 
proposed regulation. The proposed reorganization is discussed in 
section XIII of this preamble.
7. Specifically Stating That the Hazardous Waste Determination Must Be 
Accurate
    Generators have an obligation to apply due diligence in making an 
accurate hazardous waste determination by using either knowledge of 
their processes and waste and/or testing of their waste. As discussed 
above, RCRA inspectors often cite generators for ``failing to make a 
waste determination'' at Sec.  262.11. By that we mean the generator 
failed to accurately identify a material that could be a solid waste, 
or failed to accurately make a hazardous waste determination. In both 
cases, the generator's failure to make accurate solid and hazardous 
waste determinations may result in adverse impacts to human health and 
the environment.
    As previously stated, at the core of the RCRA hazardous waste 
program is the need for generators to make an accurate hazardous waste 
determination. Therefore, to emphasize this point the Agency is 
modifying the regulatory text at 40 CFR 262.11 to emphasize and make 
clear that a generator who generates a solid waste, as defined in 40 
CFR 261.2, must accurately determine if that waste is a hazardous 
waste.
    A 1993 FR notice states that in the case where a generator sends 
waste off site for treatment, storage, or disposal, the TSDF may rely 
on process knowledge supplied by the generator as a basis for the 
TSDF's waste characterization (40 CFR 264.13). The notice points out 
that while using process knowledge is ``seemingly attractive because of 
the potential savings associated with using existing information (such 
as published data), the facility must ensure that this information 
accurately characterizes applicable wastes'' (58 FR 48111, September 
14, 1993).
    Generators often rely on a third party, such as a TSDF, to help 
them make a hazardous waste determination. Whether the generator uses a 
third party or not, the generator is responsible for that 
determination. As such, the generator should still apply its due 
diligence to ensure a solid waste is not a hazardous waste, and if a 
hazardous waste, that it is characterized accurately.
    Also with respect to characterizing a hazardous waste accurately, a 
generator identifying all possible RCRA waste numbers (or RCRA 
hazardous waste codes) on its manifest or container marking does not 
satisfy the requirement to make an accurate waste determination. First, 
the TSDF will not be able to treat the waste effectively or efficiently 
to comply with land disposal restriction requirements because it will 
not know precisely what waste it needs to treat. Second, the generator 
clearly did not apply its due diligence seriously.
    The Agency also realizes that generators, whether inadvertently or 
intentionally, often make a hazardous waste determination when the 
material is actually a non-hazardous solid waste. The intent of this 
proposed change would not impact such determinations. The generator is 
always free to manage its solid waste as a hazardous waste if it so 
desires. However, the Agency is concerned about other related 
situations, such as when a generator applied due diligence but still 
made an incorrect hazardous waste determination potentially posing a 
risk to the environment, or where a generator intentionally tried to 
circumvent waste determination requirements.
    EPA specifically requests comment on reasons why it may not be 
feasible to require a generator's solid and hazardous waste 
determinations to be accurate and how best the Agency can make clear 
that generators are responsible for making an accurate hazardous waste 
determination. EPA also requests comment regarding ways the proposed 
regulatory text could be improved to better assist generators in making 
more effective hazardous waste determinations.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
8. Taking Comment on Maintaining Records Until the Generator Closes
    EPA is also using this notice to take comment on an additional 
revision to the hazardous waste determination regulations at Sec.  
262.11, but is not proposing any regulatory text for this change. The 
Agency requests comment on requiring SQGs and LQGs to maintain records 
of their waste determinations until the generator closes its site, 
rather than for at least three years from the date that the waste was 
last sent to on-site or off-site treatment, storage and disposal. 
Because an inspector may not be able to inspect every SQG and LQG 
within three years from when the solid or hazardous waste was first 
generated, a generator may discard its waste determination records 
prematurely. For practical reasons, the Agency believes a generator 
will want to maintain records of its solid and hazardous waste 
determinations to support and respond to any questions an inspector may 
have about a particular waste determination--even if it is more than 
three years from when it was first generated. Similarly, the Agency 
believes generators that generate large numbers of solid and hazardous 
waste streams annually will computerize their records, making it easy 
to store and retrieve them when necessary. For these reasons, the 
Agency does not believe requiring SQGs and LQGs to maintain records of 
their active solid and hazardous waste streams should be overly 
burdensome.
    Finally, while the Agency is not proposing that CESQGs maintain 
documentation of their non-hazardous waste determinations, the Agency 
does seek comment on the economic costs and environmental benefits of 
potentially requiring CESQGs to maintain documentation of their 
hazardous waste determinations, including their non-hazardous waste 
determinations. The Agency realizes that the total number of CESQGs is 
very large--ranging from an estimated 293,000 to 463,000; however, the 
Agency believes that based on the number of waste streams generated by 
SQGs and LQGs that such generators should only be generating a few 
solid waste streams and in many cases using their knowledge of the 
process and process materials in making hazardous waste determinations. 
In other words, the burden of documenting their hazardous waste 
determination should not be that costly for each CESQG.
    Conversely, the costs of not making an accurate hazardous waste 
determination could be significant environmentally and financially to 
the CESQG. For

[[Page 57946]]

example, in the case that a CESQG fails to make an accurate hazardous 
waste determination, resulting in the CESQG actually being either a SQG 
or LQG, hazardous wastes will likely be illegally managed. Hazardous 
wastes that should have been sent to a RCRA-permitted treatment, 
storage or disposal facility would instead be sent to a municipal solid 
waste landfill, potentially posing future environmental problems for 
that landfill and community. EPA requests comment on the potential 
environmental benefits that could be achieved if the Agency were to 
require that CESQGs document determinations that their solid waste is 
or is not a hazardous waste.
9. Hazardous Waste Determination Electronic Decision Tool
    Building upon the above discussion and the importance of making 
accurate hazardous waste determinations, the Agency also seeks comment 
on the feasibility of developing a user-friendly electronic hazardous 
waste determination decision tool that generators could use to assist 
them in making a hazardous waste determination. This electronic tool 
would guide generators through a series of analytical decision-type 
(Yes or No) questions to assist them in determining whether the solid 
waste they have generated is also a hazardous waste subject to the 
applicable RCRA hazardous waste regulations. As part of this decision 
tool, generators would be able to document reasons why the solid waste 
is a hazardous waste, or conversely, why the solid waste is not a 
hazardous waste.
    Given the large number and great variety of hazardous waste 
streams, a key challenge would be to determine how best to design this 
decision tool if the Agency went forward in developing it. Potential 
approaches include designing the tool conceptually around the 
following: (1) Industrial sectors; (2) families of industrial materials 
(i.e., solvents, acids, metals, etc.); (3) broad type of hazardous 
secondary material (i.e., spent material, by-product, sludge, etc.); 
(4) listed hazardous waste organized by specific industrial sector or 
non-specific sectors (e.g., solvents, electroplating wastes, and 
characteristic hazardous waste), or (5) an eclectic approach that 
combined different aspects of the approaches in (1) through (4).
    This decision tool could assist generators to make the following 
determinations under Sec.  262.11:
     Whether the waste is excluded from regulation under Sec.  
261.4 [Sec.  262.11(a)]
     Whether the waste meets any of the hazardous waste listing 
descriptions in part 261 subpart D [Sec.  262.11(b)]
     Whether the waste exhibits one or more hazardous 
characteristics of hazardous waste, as identified in part 261 subpart C 
[Sec.  262.11(c)]
     What are all applicable EPA hazardous waste codes for 
wastes determined to be hazardous [Sec.  262.11(f)]
    An electronic decision tool could also possibly provide a way for 
SQGs and LQGs to maintain records supporting their waste determinations 
[Sec.  262.11(e)].
    Developing this decision tool would be a major investment on the 
part of the Agency and could take several years to fully develop, test, 
and make operational, with different components produced for use over 
time. However, even when completed (assuming it was a worthwhile Agency 
investment to pursue), this decision tool would never be able to 
account for all the industrial sector/family of industrial materials/
type of hazardous secondary material possibilities that exist in 
industry. Therefore, scoping such a decision tool to capture as much of 
the most likely industrial sector/family of industrial materials/type 
of hazardous secondary material possibilities would be the Agency's 
goal.
    Additionally, if such a decision tool were to be developed, the 
generator would still be ultimately responsible for making the 
hazardous waste determination, since no decision tool could ever 
account for its site-specific circumstances.
    Hazardous waste determination software or tools could be web-based, 
off-the-shelf, or both. The software or tools could be developed by 
EPA, by authorized states and tribes, by private parties, or by public 
and private sector collaboration.
    The Agency particularly requests comment on the feasibility of the 
private sector developing electronic application software (apps). An 
initial search for preexisting hazardous waste determination software 
identified no relevant, privately-developed, off-the-shelf software 
products to assist generators in making accurate waste determinations. 
However, EPA did identify a variety of state and academic internet-
based hazardous waste determination tools and workbooks.\71\ At issue 
is whether there is a market for such an app and what EPA could do to 
facilitate software development. The Agency estimates the universe of 
hazardous waste generators to be approximately 400,000 to 500,000, with 
a large majority being conditionally-exempt small quantity generators 
that generate up to 220 pounds in a calendar month.
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    \71\ See, for example, the Washington Department of Ecology 
created an Excel program titled ``Designation Tool 2.0 for Excel 
2007,'' to help business make accurate waste designations in the 
state of Washington. http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/hwtr/manage_waste/des_intro.html; the Texas Commission on Environmental 
Quality created an online hazardous waste determination tool, the 
``Waste Designation Decision Matrix.'' http://www.tceq.texas.gov/assistance/waste-matrix/matrixenter.html, and The Connecticut 
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's RCRA Help page 
provides a guide designed to help businesses and individuals figure 
out which hazardous waste requirements apply and how to comply with 
them. http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2718&q=434308&deepNav_GID=1967%20.
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    EPA is seeking comment on whether development of an electronic 
hazardous waste determination decision tool is feasible and by whom. 
The Agency requests comment on what circumstances would encourage the 
private sector to develop such a tool or app and on what generators 
would like to see in terms of components and organization that would 
facilitate a generator using it.

C. SQG and LQG Re-notification (40 CFR 262.12)

1. Background
    Under existing 40 CFR 262.12, SQGs and LQGs are required to notify 
EPA using EPA form 8700-12 (Site ID form) in order to obtain an EPA 
identification number (EPA ID). Without such identification, a 
generator cannot treat, store, dispose of, or transport, its hazardous 
waste. Once a generator applies for and receives an EPA ID, information 
provided by the generator (e.g., name, address, contact, industrial 
sector, EPA hazardous waste numbers) is entered into the state system 
and/or EPA's national data system (RCRAInfo) to support program 
management activities.
    Subsequent to obtaining an EPA ID, there is no federal regulation 
requiring LQGs or SQGs to re-notify EPA to update their site 
information or confirm the information remains accurate. However, LQGs 
do update their site information as part of the biennial report.
    EPA believes that about half the states require annual reporting by 
LQGs and some require periodic reporting by SQGs in order to determine 
user fees based on the amount of hazardous waste they generate. 
However, the data from these annual reports may not always be submitted 
to EPA's national RCRA database. Additionally, although many LQGs 
currently submit a Site ID form as part of their biennial report, this

[[Page 57947]]

independent requirement does not apply to SQGs or to entities that 
initially notified as an LQG, but were an SQG during the biennial 
reporting year and, thus, were not required to submit a biennial 
report.
2. Problems With Outdated Information
    The lack of re-notification at the federal level greatly impairs 
EPA's and the states' ability to use the information for compliance 
monitoring and programmatic purposes. This is because a one-time 
notification provides no assurance that the information collected in 
EPA's and the states' databases over time will accurately reflect which 
facilities are generating hazardous waste. For example, a recent 
examination of EPA's data reveals that there are thousands of SQGs who 
last notified over 20 years ago.\72\ EPA is concerned that the 
probability a generator that last notified prior to 1990 is still 
active and still an SQG is quite small. Because of the outdated 
information, it is difficult for EPA to ascertain even simple 
statistics, such as the number of SQGs currently operating, let alone 
information that can be reliably used for programmatic and compliance 
monitoring purposes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \72\ Count of SQGs by Year of Last Notification Received, 
December 12, 2012. Developed from RCRAInfo data system using Form 
8700-12 Site Identification Form information.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Because of the lack of integrity in the data, the Agency and states 
must spend their limited resources to `clean up' the data every time 
regulatory authorities try to use it, for example, to estimate 
regulatory burden and benefits to the regulated community, offer 
compliance assistance, or produce public reports on hazardous waste 
generation. Furthermore, regulatory authorities may waste time and 
resources monitoring compliance at entities that no longer generate 
hazardous waste. This inefficient use of resources lowers the 
effectiveness of regulators to monitor compliance overall and could 
potentially increase the risk of environmental damage from 
mismanagement of hazardous waste. In summary, the Agency and many 
states have, for the most part, an outdated, incomplete, and inaccurate 
understanding of the LQG and SQG universe. Consequently, over time, 
this undermines the ability of EPA or the states to make effective 
programmatic decisions.
3. Proposed Periodic Re-Notification
    EPA is proposing to add an explicit independent requirement to the 
regulations that both LQGs and SQGs re-notify EPA using the Site ID 
form (EPA form 8700-12). \73\ The intent of this re-notification 
provision is to provide basic information to the regulatory agencies 
about who is generating and managing hazardous waste. The information 
required in the Site ID form includes:
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    \73\ To the extent that other parts of the RCRA regulations 
require the submittal of EPA form 8700-12, for example, used oil 
generators or handlers, the proposed re-notification provision would 
not impact them, unless they were also an LQG or SQG of hazardous 
waste.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     Site name, address, contact information, and EPA ID number
     NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code
     Information regarding the entity's legal owner and 
operator
     Type of regulated waste activity (e.g., hazardous waste 
generator category and whether the entity is a transporter, treater, 
storer, disposer, or recycler of hazardous waste)
     Universal waste activities
     Used oil activities
     Notification for opting into or withdrawing from managing 
laboratory hazardous waste under 40 CFR part 262 subpart K
     Description of hazardous waste, including a list of 
applicable federal and state hazardous waste numbers
     Notification of hazardous secondary material activity 
managed under certain definition of solid waste exclusions.
     Certification signed by the entity's legal owner, 
operator, or authorized representative.
    The specific information included in the notification will enable 
regulatory agencies to monitor compliance adequately and to ensure 
hazardous wastes are managed according to the appropriate RCRA 
hazardous waste regulations. The information can be used to assist RCRA 
inspectors in determining which facilities may warrant greater 
oversight and provides a basis for setting enforcement priorities. 
Notification information is collected in EPA's RCRAInfo database, which 
is the national repository of all RCRA Subtitle C site identification 
information, whether collected by a state authority or EPA. EPA 
provides public access to this information through EPA's public Web 
site at http://www.epa.gov/enviro/html/.
    Once an initial notification (to obtain an EPA ID number) is 
submitted, to re-notify, a generator need only review the previous 
notification and either make changes if necessary or confirm that the 
information remains accurate. Furthermore, EPA has recently made 
available an electronic system for the regulated community to use to 
submit Site ID forms electronically, which will further reduce burden 
on generators. Facilities should check with their states regarding 
whether their state will use EPA's electronic submittal process.
    The proposed rule would require LQGs, having first obtained an EPA 
ID number, to re-notify EPA using the Site ID form prior to March 1 of 
each even-numbered year. This time frame is the same as that for the 
biennial reports in 40 CFR 262.41. Adding this provision to Sec.  
262.12 in the existing regulations (which is Sec.  262.18 in the 
proposed reorganization in this proposed rule) reflects existing 
processes by which LQGs already submit Site ID forms as part of the 
biennial reporting process. EPA also believes that the requirement to 
re-notify is particularly important considering generators may change 
regulatory status from LQGs to SQGs and vice versa.
    EPA is also proposing that SQGs, having first obtained an EPA ID 
number, must re-notify EPA using the Site ID form prior to February 1 
of each even-numbered year. We propose the two-year time frame to mimic 
the current biennial reporting process for LQGs; however, we propose to 
require that SQG re-notifications (due by February 1 of each even-
numbered year) to occur one month prior to the due date for LQG re-
notifications (due by March 1 of each even-numbered year) to help 
reduce the burden on states that must process the re-notifications. We 
are also taking comment on whether re-notifying every four years would 
be appropriate for SQGs.
    EPA also considered whether to require SQGs to re-notify on 
alternate years--that is, by March 1 of each odd-numbered year, from 
LQGs, in order to further reduce the burden on states. However, this 
may complicate the regulations because a generator can change its 
generator category year-to-year. For example, it is possible that a 
generator who is an LQG during the SQG-reporting year and an SQG during 
the LQG-reporting year would not have to submit any notification to 
EPA. Furthermore, requiring SQG and LQG re-notifications during the 
same year enables EPA to include information regarding SQGs in its 
National Biennial RCRA Hazardous Waste Report.
    EPA believes that requiring a set due date (i.e., February 1) will 
ease implementation and compliance with the re-notification provision. 
However, one alternative that the Agency seeks comment on is to allow 
for `rolling' notifications, in that generators could re-notify at any 
time of the year as long as they re-notified within two years of the 
date of their last notification. EPA understands that this alternative 
may further reduce burden on the states that would process the re-
notifications, in

[[Page 57948]]

that the state would receive the notifications throughout the year 
rather than all at once; however, it may also complicate compliance by 
the regulated community, as well as compliance monitoring by the states 
and EPA, as each LQG and SQG would have a unique `due date' that must 
be individually tracked.
    Another alternative to requiring periodic notification (e.g., every 
two years) that the Agency seeks comment on would be for EPA to require 
an SQG or LQG to re-notify only in the event of a change to certain 
information, such as (1) change in ownership and (2) change in 
generator category.\74\ The Agency believes that updating this specific 
information is particularly important because:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \74\ EPA is also proposing a notification requirement for (1) 
generators undergoing closure (section VIII.G.); (2) LQGs that 
receive hazardous waste from CESQGs (section VII.C) and (3) episodic 
generators (section IX), which are discussed in other parts of this 
preamble.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     Re-notifying when a generator has a change of ownership is 
important so that EPA and the states understand who is legally 
responsible for managing the generated hazardous waste.
     Re-notifying due to a change in generator category 
provides EPA and the state with information regarding what regulations 
apply to the generator and thus assist with compliance assistance and 
monitoring activities.
    EPA notes that, because an EPA ID number is specific to a site 
location, a change in site address for an entity already requires the 
entity to apply for a new EPA ID number using the Site ID form.
    In this case, EPA would require re-notification within 30 days of 
when the change occurred. Re-notification in the event of change to 
these two items may further reduce burden on LQGs and SQGs, because EPA 
assumes that these changes would happen fairly infrequently. However, 
EPA also notes that although LQGs and SQGs would only have to re-notify 
in the event of a change in its ownership or generator category, re-
notification would require a complete submittal of all information 
included in the Site ID form. EPA understands that this alternative may 
also increase the complexity of implementing the regulation because it 
would be difficult for regulatory authorities to ensure that re-
notifications were received according to the regulations. For example, 
if a facility last notified ten years ago, it would be difficult for 
EPA and the states to ascertain whether the generator has failed to re-
notify in compliance with the regulations or that the generator's 
information simply hasn't changed since its last notification. 
Additionally, EPA notes that re-notification based on a change does not 
result in data that is as reliable as data provided in periodic re-
notifications because it provides no information on generators that 
have stopped operations.
4. Request for Comment
    EPA requests comment on its proposed change to require re-
notification for SQGs and LQGs, including information regarding the 
benefits and burden of such a provision. EPA also requests comment on 
whether such re-notification should be every two years or one of the 
other alternatives discussed above. Finally, EPA requests comment on 
any other alternatives for an independent re-notification requirement, 
including suggestions that would reduce the burden on states that must 
process re-notifications.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. EPA is proposing to move Sec.  262.12 (EPA 
identification numbers) to Sec.  262.18 and is proposing to revise the 
title of the section to read ``EPA identification numbers and re-
notification for large quantity generators and small quantity 
generators.''

D. Determining Generator Category (Proposed New Section 262.13)

    EPA is proposing a new section Sec.  262.13, which would describe 
how a generator determines which generator category it would be subject 
to. Proposed Sec.  262.13 discusses the framework for making a 
generator determination in paragraph (a) and stresses that the 
calculation is made monthly and that the generator category can change 
from month to month. The proposed regulatory text would state that a 
generator's category is determined each month by the amount of 
hazardous waste it generates and may change from month to month. The 
regulation sets forth procedures to determine whether a generator is a 
very small quantity generator, a small quantity generator, or a large 
quantity generator for a particular month, as defined in Sec.  260.10.
    The discussion in Sec.  262.13(a) is not a new requirement for 
generators, but these steps are not currently laid out in the 
regulations in as succinct a manner. EPA believes that the addition of 
the definitions of generator categories to Sec.  260.10 and this 
paragraph on how to make a generator category determination should 
provide specific instructions on this matter for the regulated 
community and thereby improve compliance with the generator 
regulations.
    Proposed paragraph (b) of Sec.  262.13 would specifically address 
the situation in which a generator generates any combination of non-
acute hazardous waste, acute hazardous waste, and the residues from the 
cleanup of a spill of acute hazardous waste. This paragraph presents a 
series of steps for a generator to follow when determining its 
generator category to ensure that it selects the appropriate category 
for the total amount and types of hazardous waste generated.
    Proposed Sec. Sec.  262.13(c) and (d) are existing provisions that 
we are proposing to move from Sec. Sec.  261.5(c) and (d) of the 
existing regulations with a few small wording changes to reinforce that 
category determinations are made monthly and do not otherwise represent 
a change in the generator regulations.
    EPA is requesting comment on the proposal to add this description 
of how a generator is to determine its generator category to the 
regulations.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is partially 
affected by the proposed reorganization. Some of the language proposed 
for Sec.  262.13 on what materials to count when determining generator 
category are moved from existing Sec.  261.5, but much of this proposed 
regulation is new text.

E. Requiring Hazardous Waste Numbers When Marking of Containers Prior 
to Shipping Hazardous Waste Off Site to a Designated RCRA Facility (40 
CFR 262.32)

    The Agency is proposing to modify 40 CFR 262.32 to require SQGs and 
LQGs to mark their containers with the applicable EPA hazardous waste 
number (RCRA hazardous waste code) prior to transporting their 
hazardous waste off site to a designated RCRA facility for subsequent 
management. EPA is proposing this revision so that TSDFs can readily 
identify the contents of hazardous waste containers they are receiving 
from generators and effectively treat the wastes to meet land disposal 
restriction requirements (LDRs). As described elsewhere in this 
proposal, the Agency is proposing revisions to the marking and labeling 
of containers and other waste accumulation units in order for 
employees, inspectors, emergency responders, and waste handlers to 
better understand the potential hazards associated with the contents of 
hazardous waste contained in a unit.
    This proposed provision should not increase burden on generators as 
it reaffirms commonly used waste management practices. Most generators, 
or their designated waste handlers, already mark their containers with 
the

[[Page 57949]]

applicable EPA hazardous waste numbers prior to transporting their 
hazardous waste off site. In fact, requiring that applicable EPA 
hazardous waste numbers be marked on containers decreases overall 
burden because it avoids the need for a TSDF to identify the hazardous 
waste or send it back to the generator for proper identification.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed change.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

F. Modifications to Management of Containers, Tanks, Drip Pads, and 
Containment Buildings (40 CFR 262.34(a)(2) and(3) and 40 CFR 
262.34(a)(1))

    The existing regulations for LQGs that address the conditions for 
exemption related to marking and labeling are at Sec.  262.34(a)(2) and 
(3) for containers and at Sec.  262.34(a)(3) for tanks. The marking and 
labeling condition for SQGs who accumulate hazardous waste in both 
tanks and containers are at Sec.  262.34(d)(4), which references Sec.  
262.34 (a)(2) and (3). For practical reasons, there are no requirements 
to mark drip pads or containment buildings that accumulate hazardous 
waste other than requiring that documentation must exist that describes 
the procedures to ensure that each waste volume remains in the unit for 
no more than 90 days.
    EPA is proposing to modify Sec.  262.34(a)(2) to strengthen the 
marking and labeling conditions for exemption for containers and to 
modify Sec.  262.34(a)(3) to strengthen and consolidate the marking and 
labeling conditions for exemption for hazardous waste tanks, drip pads, 
and containment buildings by LQGs. The Agency is also proposing to 
modify Sec.  262.34(d) to strengthen the marking and labeling 
conditions of containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings 
by SQGs.
    The proposed changes are consistent with the applicable discussion 
of marking and labeling of containers in SAAs in section VIII.I. Where 
differences may occur is when the container may be shipped off-site as 
opposed to when the contents of the container are managed on-site, or 
temporarily managed on-site (e.g., when the container is moved from the 
SAA to a central accumulation area and then shipped off-site to a 
TSDF).
1. Container Marking and Labeling for LQGs and SQGs (40 CFR 
262.34(a)(3))
    Currently, Sec.  262.34(a)(3) requires each container and tank to 
be labeled or marked clearly with the words, ``Hazardous Waste.'' 
However, while the words ``Hazardous Waste'' on containers and tanks 
provide some measure of information regarding the contents of these 
units, this information fails to describe the specific hazards of the 
contents and what risk these wastes could pose to human health and the 
environment. EPA believes it is important that employees, transporters, 
downstream handlers, emergency personnel, and EPA and state inspectors 
know as much as possible about the potential hazards of the contents in 
containers being accumulated, transported, and managed, whether on-site 
and/or off-site, so that the hazardous wastes are managed in an 
environmentally sound manner.
    The Agency is proposing two modifications that would strengthen the 
labeling and marking conditions for LQGs and SQGs accumulating 
hazardous waste in containers. These changes are similar to those 
proposed for containers stored in satellite accumulation areas (see 
section VIII.I.) First, the Agency is proposing that SQGs and LQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste in containers mark their containers with 
both the words ``Hazardous Waste'' and other words that identify the 
contents of the containers that a third party, such as an emergency 
responder, co-worker unfamiliar with the material, or even the general 
public may recognize. Although the words ``Hazardous Waste'' are 
important to convey that the container contains a waste, as opposed to 
a product, and that a hazardous waste determination has been made for 
the contents, it does not convey more practical information regarding 
the contents of the container. Examples of other words that identify 
the contents of the container may include, but are not limited to the 
name of the chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene 
dichloride''; or the type or class of chemical, such as ``organic 
solvents'' or ``halogenated organic solvents.'' Another option for 
complying with this provision is to use the proper shipping name and 
technical name markings used to comply with DOT requirements at 49 CFR 
part 172 subpart D. The Agency does not consider chemical formulas, 
such as CH2Cl2 for methylene dichloride, to be 
``words that identify the contents of the container'' since chemical 
formulas may not be widely known among emergency responders, workers, 
and hazardous waste handlers other than chemists.
    If the hazardous waste will subsequently be sent off-site for 
treatment and disposal, an SQG or LQG may choose to use an appropriate 
DOT proper shipping name found on the hazardous materials table at 49 
CFR 172.101 to identify the contents of the container while it is 
accumulating on-site. That way, the generator will fulfill EPA and DOT 
requirements simultaneously; however, EPA is not proposing to require 
the use of the DOT shipping names while the hazardous waste is 
accumulating on-site. We only suggest that the DOT shipping name may be 
one way that some generators may choose to identify the contents of the 
container.
    EPA also believes use of the DOT marking requirement should be 
sufficient in many situations involving DOT Class 9 hazardous materials 
that are also hazardous waste, with the DOT shipping name ending in 
N.O.S. (not otherwise specified). As noted at 49 CFR 172.301 (b), 
generators using a DOT shipping name ending in N.O.S. must also provide 
the technical name of the hazardous material in association with the 
proper shipping name. However, the Agency is requesting comment on 
examples of when the DOT shipping name would not meet EPA's intent of 
``identifying the contents of the container'' and suggestions for 
addressing this situation. EPA notes that additional pre-transport 
requirements, other than the DOT shipping name, apply when shipping 
hazardous waste off-site. We are not proposing to change EPA's existing 
requirements for pre-transport requirements that are currently found in 
Sec. Sec.  262.30 through 262.33. Similarly, for packages subject to 49 
CFR, the generator or shipper/carrier should be familiar with and aware 
of the marking requirements at 49 CFR 172.304 and prohibited labeling 
and label visibility requirements at 49 CFR 172.401 and 172.406, 
respectively.
    The second modification we are proposing for labeling containers in 
central accumulation areas is to add a provision that SQGs and LQGs 
mark and label their containers with an indication of the hazards of 
the contents of the containers. SQGs and LQGs will have flexibility in 
how to comply with this new provision. That is, generators can indicate 
the hazards of the contents of the container using any of several 
established methods, including, but not limited to an EPA hazardous 
waste characteristic(s) (ignitable, corrosive, reactive or toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 
172 subpart E (labeling); a label consistent with the OSHA Hazard 
Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard label 
consistent with NFPA code 704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with 
the

[[Page 57950]]

United Nations' Global Harmonized System (GHS). Generators also may use 
any other marking or labeling commonly used nationwide in commerce that 
would alert workers and emergency responders to the nature of the 
hazards associated with the contents of the containers.
    EPA believes that placing both the appropriate label and marking on 
containers during hazardous waste accumulation will enable persons who 
may come in contact with it to be aware of the hazardous contents of 
the container with little or no additional cost to generators. In many 
instances, this proposed condition will already have been satisfied if 
the generator elects to move a container accumulating hazardous waste 
in a satellite accumulation area to a central accumulation area.
    In summary, EPA is proposing to modify Sec.  262.34(a)(3) and 
require LQGs and SQGs to mark containers with the following: (1) the 
words ``Hazardous Waste,'' (2) other words that identify the contents 
of the containers, and (3) an indication of the hazards of the 
container's contents. We are not proposing to change Sec.  
262.34(a)(2), which requires LQGs and SQGs to mark clearly and visibly 
the date accumulation began on each container and make that marking 
visible for inspection.
    The Agency requests comment on the proposed changes for container 
marking and labeling for LQGs and SQGs.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization in that the labeling and marking 
regulations would be moved from Sec.  262.34 to Sec.  262.16(b)(6) (for 
SQGs) and to Sec.  262.17(a)(5) (for LQGs). The reorganization is 
discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
2. Tank Marking and Labeling for LQGs and SQGs (40 CFR 262.34(a)(3))
    The Agency is proposing to modify the regulations at Sec.  
262.34(a)(3) to require LQGs and SQGs to use inventory logs, monitoring 
equipment, or records indicating the date the hazardous waste first 
entered the tank in order to support a generator's determination that 
it has not exceeded its 90 day accumulation time limit, or in the case 
of an SQG, its 180-day time limitation. Exceeding the 90- or 180-day 
time limitation for LQGs and SQGs, respectively, would be a violation 
of a condition for an exemption from permitting requirements. Records 
from tank level sensors also may be used which could be either 
automatically logged from the sensors to a computer record, or recorded 
as part of a tank's operational daily inspection (see 40 CFR 265.195). 
Generators may also use any other methods that clearly demonstrate the 
date hazardous waste first entered the tank and show that the hazardous 
waste was subsequently emptied within 90 days of the date it first 
entered that tank, or 180 days in the case of an SQG (unless the 
hazardous waste must travel greater than 200 miles to a TSDF in which 
case 270 days is allowed). The generator must also use inventory logs 
to identify the hazardous waste contents and hazards of the tank.
    With respect to the accumulation start date, in the preamble to the 
promulgation of the SQG regulations (51 FR 10160, March 24, 1986), EPA 
stated that Sec.  262.34 contains the conditions for exemption for 
generators that accumulate hazardous waste on site. Under Sec.  
262.34(a), an LQG may accumulate hazardous waste on site in tanks or 
containers in any quantity for up to 90 days (and up to 180 days for a 
SQG unless the hazardous waste must travel greater than 200 miles to a 
TSDF in which case 270 days is allowed) without the need to have 
interim status or obtain a storage permit under RCRA, provided the 
generator complies with the conditions of Sec.  262.34, which include 
marking the date upon which the period of accumulation begins. While 
the preamble mentions marking tanks and containers, the final 
regulation at Sec.  262.34(a)(2) requires generators to mark the date 
upon which each period of accumulation begins only on containers.
    As part of EPA's Hazardous Waste Technical Corrections and 
Clarifications Direct Final Rule (75 FR 12989, March 18, 2010), the 
Agency sought to correct this oversight by including what it thought to 
be the appropriate clarifying language. The proposed regulatory 
language required generators to mark the date upon which each period of 
accumulation begins on each container and tank, which would bring the 
regulation in line with the preamble to the 1986 rule. However, EPA 
received numerous adverse comments regarding this change and as a 
result withdrew that proposed change. The comments stated, among other 
things, that, unlike containers, the Agency failed to realize that 
generators do not actually mark their tanks with the date upon which 
each period of accumulation begins because the tank is often a fixture 
that is used and emptied repeatedly. Commenters argued that marking 
tanks would cause confusion since there would be numerous markings all 
over the tank making it difficult for the generator and inspector to 
identify when the last period of accumulation began or could cause an 
extra effort of removing the old marking before applying a new one.
    At least one commenter also cited an EPA letter clarifying Sec.  
262.34(a)(l)(ii) in connection with the turnover of hazardous waste 
stored in generator accumulation tanks.\75\ In that letter, EPA stated 
that ``LQGs utilizing a batch process must meet the requirements of 
Sec.  262.34(a)(l)(ii). For example, the use of inventory records in 
conjunction with tank markings may provide confirmation that the tank 
has been emptied within an appropriate time period. Specifically, the 
inventory records typically show the dates and quantity of hazardous 
waste entering the tank, as well as the dates the tank was emptied. 
Shipping or hazardous waste manifest records also may be used to verify 
when the tank was emptied. Likewise, tanks accumulating hazardous 
wastes may have information indicating the time and date hazardous 
waste first entered the tank.'' The Agency went on to say that there 
may be other methods to demonstrate that a tank has been emptied, but 
any method used to confirm compliance with Sec.  262.34(a)(l)(ii) must 
be reasonable and easily discernible to EPA or an authorized state.
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    \75\ Letter from Matt Hale, Director of EPA's Office of Solid 
Waste to John Hopewell, National Paint and Coatings Association, 
February 16, 2007, RCRA Online 14764.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Later in this letter, EPA stated that LQGs accumulating hazardous 
wastes through a continuous flow process must ``demonstrate that the 
hazardous waste has not been stored for more than 90 days . . . For 
example, a generator could confirm that the volume of a tank has been 
emptied every 90 days by recording the results of monitoring equipment 
both entering and leaving a tank. This recordkeeping, in conjunction 
with the tank volume, would enable inspectors, as well as [site] 
personnel, to demonstrate compliance with Sec.  262.34(a)(l)(ii). 
Likewise, in marking the tank, a generator could mark both the tank 
volume and estimated daily throughput to allow inspectors to determine 
the number of days that hazardous wastes resides in a tank to determine 
compliance with Sec.  262.34(a)(l)(ii). As noted above, there may be 
other methods to demonstrate that the tank has been emptied, but any 
method or demonstration to confirm compliance must be reasonable and 
easily discernible to EPA or an authorized state.''
    Subsequent to withdrawing the provision at Sec.  262.34(a)(2) as 
part of

[[Page 57951]]

EPA's Hazardous Waste Technical Corrections and Clarifications Direct 
Final Rule due to adverse comment, EPA also confirmed with state 
officials that current operating practices do not include generators 
physically marking their tanks. Instead, generators are able to use 
inventory logs, monitoring equipment, or other methods to demonstrate 
that a tank has been emptied within 90 days of the date hazardous waste 
first entered the tank.
    Therefore, with respect to the accumulation start date for tanks, 
EPA is proposing that generators may use inventory logs, monitoring 
equipment or records indicating the date the hazardous waste first 
entered the tank, as long as this information is immediately accessible 
for inspection. Records from tank level sensors also may be used that 
are either automatically logged from the sensors to a computer record 
or recorded as part of a tank's operational daily inspection (required 
by 40 CFR 265.195). Generators may also use any other methods that 
clearly demonstrate the date hazardous waste first entered the tank and 
was subsequently emptied within 90 days of the date hazardous waste 
first entered that tank.
    The same issue potentially applies to a generator physically 
marking and labeling the contents of the tank and its associated 
hazards. If the contents and associated hazards frequently change, then 
physically marking the tank could result in numerous markings and 
labels on the tank, making it difficult for employees and others to 
identify its contents. Therefore, following the same logic, the Agency 
is proposing that generators use inventory logs or records to identify 
the contents of the tank and its associated hazards. The Agency is also 
proposing that such tank logs be immediately accessible by the 
generator should the need arise.
    The Agency requests comment on the feasibility and effectiveness of 
using inventory logs or records to identify the contents and hazards of 
a hazardous waste tank. The Agency also requests comment on alternative 
methods of identifying the contents and hazards of a hazardous waste 
tank in a more cost-effective manner.
    Consistent with the existing regulations for tanks at Sec.  
262.34(a)(3), the Agency will continue to require that hazardous waste 
tanks be labeled with the words ``Hazardous Waste.''
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The labeling and marking regulations would 
be moved from Sec.  262.34 to Sec.  262.16(b)(6) (for SQGs) and to 
Sec.  262.17(a)(5) (for LQGs). The reorganization is discussed in 
section XIII of this preamble.
3. Drip Pad and Containment Building Marking and Labeling for LQGs and 
SQGs (40 CFR 262.34(a)(3)) \76\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \76\ Note: Under a separate provision discussed in section 
VIII.J, the Agency is proposing to allow hazardous waste to be 
accumulated by SQGs in drip pads and containment buildings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The existing regulations for drip pads at Sec.  262.34(1)(iii)(A) 
and (B) require generators to produce a description of the procedures 
that will be followed to ensure that all wastes are removed from the 
drip pad and associated collection system at least every 90 days, and 
to produce documentation of each waste removal, including the quantity 
of waste removed from the drip pad and the sump or collection system 
and the date and time of removal. Likewise, the existing regulations 
for containment buildings at Sec.  262.34(1)(iv)(A) and (B) require the 
generator to produce a written description of the procedures to ensure 
that each waste volume remains in the containment building for no more 
than 90 days, a written description of the waste generation and 
management practices for the facility showing that they are consistent 
with respect to the 90-day limit, and documentation that the procedures 
are complied with. However, in both instances, the existing regulation 
explicitly fails to account for when the hazardous waste is first 
placed in or on the unit, which raises questions as to how a generator 
documents that it has met the 90-day limit.
    Therefore, to address this shortcoming, and because the risks for 
accumulating hazardous wastes on drip pads and containment buildings 
are similar to those accumulating in tanks, and for purposes of 
consistency and uniformity with the marking and labeling provisions for 
tanks, the Agency is proposing the same marking and labeling regulatory 
framework for hazardous wastes accumulated on drip pads and in 
containment buildings that it is proposing for tanks.
    Specifically, the Agency is proposing that hazardous waste 
accumulated on drip pads and in containment buildings be labeled in a 
conspicuous place near these units with the words ``Hazardous Waste.'' 
The Agency is also proposing to revise the existing marking regulations 
and clarify that LQGs and SQGs document the date that the hazardous 
waste was first placed on the drip pad and the sump or collection 
system in order to verify that the removal or turnover of the hazardous 
wastes on the drip pad took place within 90 days or less in order to 
support a generator's determination that it has not exceeded its 90-day 
accumulation time limitation. Exceeding the 90-day time limitation for 
LQGs and SQGs, respectively would be a violation of a condition for an 
exemption from permitting requirements. Note that this is also 
important because, as described in section VIII.J below, SQGs may move 
their wastes from one type of unit to another (e.g., drip pad to 
containers), and without knowing the start and end dates, the generator 
will not be able to confirm that it met the appropriate accumulation 
time limitations.
    Consistent with current drip pad regulations in 40 CFR 
262.34(a)(1)(iii)(A) and (B), these provisions will continue to include 
a description of the procedures to be followed by both SQGs and LQGs to 
ensure that all wastes are removed from the drip pad and associated 
collection system at least once every 90 days as well as documentation 
of each waste removal.
    Finally, the Agency is proposing that generators use inventory logs 
or records to identify the contents of the drip pad and its associated 
hazards and that such logs and records be immediately accessible. The 
Agency believes that these requirements are necessary to ensure that 
workers and emergency responders handling or coming in contact with the 
waste understand the hazards and dangers that they may be exposed to.
    In addition, as with the proposed changes for hazardous wastes 
accumulated in tanks and on drip pads, the Agency is proposing to 
clarify that LQGs and SQGs may use inventory logs, monitoring 
equipment, or any other effective means to document the date the 
hazardous waste was first placed in the containment building and the 
date when the hazardous waste was removed to verify that the waste was 
accumulated no more than 90 days at any one time.
    Consistent with the existing regulation at Sec.  
262.34(a)(1)(iv)(A) and (B) for containment buildings, the proposed 
regulation for both LQGs and SQGs will state that the generator must 
maintain the following records and that they can do so by using 
inventory logs, records from monitoring equipment, or any other 
effective means:
    (1) A professional engineer certification that the building 
complies with the design standards specified in 40 CFR 265.1101 in the 
facility's operating record prior to operation of the unit; and
    (2) A written description of procedures to ensure that each waste 
volume remains in the unit for no more

[[Page 57952]]

than 90 days by identifying the date hazardous waste first started to 
be accumulated, a written description of the waste generation and 
management practices for the site showing that they are consistent with 
respecting the 90 day limit, and documentation that the procedures are 
complied with; or
    (3) Documentation that the unit is emptied at least once every 90 
days.
    Finally, the Agency is proposing that generators use inventory logs 
or records to identify the contents of the containment building and its 
associated hazards and that such logs and records be immediately 
accessible. As with the proposed changes to the marking and labeling of 
drip pads, the Agency believes that these requirements are necessary to 
ensure that workers and emergency responders handling or coming in 
contact with the waste understand the hazards and dangers that they may 
be exposed to.
    As with the proposed changes to the tank marking and labeling 
regulations at Sec.  262.34(a)(3), the Agency requests comment on the 
necessity and effectiveness of explicitly requiring generators to use 
inventory logs or records to identify the contents and hazards of 
hazardous waste accumulated on a drip pad or in a containment building. 
The Agency also requests comment on alternative methods of identifying 
the contents and hazards of a hazardous waste on a drip pad or in a 
containment building in a more cost-effective manner. Lastly, the 
Agency requests comment on how a generator can more effectively mark or 
label a drip pad or containment building with the words ``Hazardous 
Waste.''
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The labeling and marking regulations would 
be moved from Sec.  262.34 to Sec.  262.16(b)(6) (for SQGs) and Sec.  
262.17(a)(5) (for LQGs). The reorganization is discussed in section 
XIII of this preamble.
4. Request for Comment on Documentation of Waste Accumulation Unit 
Inspections
    a. Container inspections at Sec. Sec.  262.34. The Agency is 
requesting comment in this proposal on requiring both LQGs and SQGs, as 
a condition for exemption to record the results of their required ``at 
least weekly'' inspections to emphasize the importance of these 
inspections in preventing releases into the environment and to provide 
a measure of accountability that a generator inspection of its 
containers actually took place.
    As part of the proposed reorganization to make the generator 
regulations more user-friendly, the Agency is proposing to incorporate 
parts of the existing regulatory text at Sec.  265.174 (Container 
Inspections) into Sec.  262.34 (Sec.  262.16(b)(2) for SQGs and Sec.  
262.17(a)(1) for LQGs under the proposed reorganization) and to revise 
these paragraphs to incorporate the existing regulatory text at Sec.  
265.171 for remedial action that is required if deterioration or leaks 
are detected.
    The requirement for container inspections at Sec.  265.174 states 
that the owner or operator must inspect areas where containers are 
stored at least weekly and that the owner or operator must look for 
leaking containers and for deterioration of containers caused by 
corrosion or other factors.
    Currently, neither SQGs nor LQGs are required to record the results 
of their weekly inspections. As a result, EPA and some states have no 
reliable way to verify that such inspections took place unless, by the 
rare chance, an inspector is inspecting a generator site at the same 
time that the ``at least weekly'' inspection occurs or an inspector 
notices a release from a container during an inspection. This problem 
is compounded by the fact that generators accumulating hazardous wastes 
in containers are not required to have any type of secondary 
containment for their containers. Therefore, should a release occur, 
these problems could be compounded if the ``at least weekly'' 
inspection fails to occur.
    A review of state programs found that many states already require 
generators accumulating hazardous waste in containers to maintain 
records of their weekly inspections. Many of these states provide 
templates for generators to use to assist them in recording the results 
of their inspections.\77\
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    \77\ See Sample of States With Container Documentation 
Requirements in the docket for this rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA does not believe the burden imposed upon generators to record 
the results of its weekly inspections would be significant, 
particularly if generators use a template of some type to document the 
results of inspections (see examples of templates provided by states to 
generators to assist them in recording the results of inspections in 
the docket to this proposal).
    The Agency also believes that best management practices for 
generators would already include documenting the results of their 
weekly inspections to not only prevent any releases, but also identify 
situations, such as a damaged container, that could lead to a potential 
release to the environment. That is, the Agency believes that the 
incremental cost of documenting the results of weekly inspections would 
be less than the costs of having to clean up after a release.
    The Agency is also seeking comment on modifying the generator 
accumulation conditions (the proposed language at Sec. Sec.  
262.16(b)(2)(iv) and 262.17(a)(1)(v) under the reorganization) to add a 
provision that generators document their weekly inspections of 
containers in central accumulation areas and keep the log of the 
inspections at the site for at least three years. The record of each 
inspection would document the following: the visual inspection of 
containers to identify any hazardous wastes accumulated in rusting, 
bulging, or leaking containers; a description of any discrepancies or 
problem areas encountered in the inspection and corrective actions 
taken; and the signature or initials of the inspector and the date of 
the inspection.
    In requesting comment on documenting the results of ``at least 
weekly'' container inspections, the Agency is interested in the 
environmental and economic impacts of requiring all generators 
accumulating hazardous waste in containers to document weekly container 
inspection, as a condition for exemption. Additionally, the Agency 
requests comment on whether to require documentation of such 
inspections if the generator has a secondary containment system to 
control leaks in the event of a release of hazardous wastes or other 
such incidents. The Agency also requests comment on whether this 
documentation requirement should be limited to those generators that 
accumulate a certain amount of hazardous waste at any one time or 
generators that accumulate more than a certain number of containers in 
a central accumulation area at any one time. Lastly, the Agency also 
seeks comment from generators in states who already must maintain 
records of their container inspections on their experience with this 
provision and whether there are effective alternative options worth 
considering that achieve the same goals.
    b. Tank inspections for SQGs at Sec.  262.34(d)(3) with cross-
reference to Sec. Sec.  265.201(c) and (d). The Agency also requests 
comment on requiring small quantity generators accumulating hazardous 
waste in tank systems to document the results of their tank inspections 
in order to emphasize the importance of these inspections in preventing 
releases into the environment and to provide a measure of 
accountability that a generator inspection of its tanks actually took 
place. Unlike LQGs accumulating

[[Page 57953]]

hazardous wastes in tanks, who must document the results of their 
inspections, SQGs have no such provision in part 262. EPA proposes to 
incorporate the regulatory text of Sec.  265.201(c) and (d) into Sec.  
262.16.
    The regulations at Sec.  265.201(c)(1) through (5) state that SQGs 
must inspect discharge equipment, data from monitoring equipment, and 
levels of waste in a tank daily, unless the tanks have secondary 
containment and leak detection equipment or procedures, in which case 
these can be inspected at least weekly. In addition, SQGs must inspect 
the construction of tanks and of discharge confinement structures like 
dikes and the areas immediately surrounding them at least weekly.
    Section 265.201(d) also requires that SQGs with full tank secondary 
containment to document in the facility's operating record when an 
alternative inspection schedule is used. However, neither Sec.  
265.201(c) nor (d) contains a requirement to document the results of 
any inspection findings. Therefore, the Agency requests comment on 
adding a paragraph to Sec.  262.16 that would require that generators 
record in a log the daily and weekly results of inspecting their tanks 
and maintain a record of those inspections on site for at least three 
years.
    Similarly, the Agency requests comment on adding a similar 
provision to Sec.  262.16 to address tanks with secondary containment 
and leak detection systems or practices to ensure that leaks that are 
identified, that the generator would be required to record in a log the 
results of inspecting these areas, including any leakage that may occur 
and maintain a record of those inspections on site for at least three 
years.
    In commenting on this matter, please consider, in particular, 
whether it is environmentally and economically worthwhile to require 
SQGs accumulating hazardous waste in tanks to document the results of 
daily and weekly tank inspections. The Agency also requests comment on 
whether to require the documentation of such inspections if the SQG has 
a secondary containment system to control leaks in the event of the 
release of hazardous wastes. Additionally, the Agency requests comment 
on whether this documentation requirement should be limited to those 
generators that accumulate a certain amount of hazardous waste at any 
one time or generators that accumulate hazardous waste in more than a 
certain number of tanks in a central accumulation area. Lastly, the 
Agency also seeks comment from SQGs in states who already must maintain 
records of their tank inspections on their experience with this 
requirement and whether there are effective alternative options worth 
considering that achieve the same goal.
    c. Drip pad inspections for both SQGs and LQGs at Sec.  262.34. The 
Agency also requests comment on requiring both LQGs and SQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste on drip pads to document the results of 
their drip pad inspections. The current regulation in Sec.  
262.34(a)(1)(iii) references subpart W of part 265. Section 265.444 in 
subpart W currently requires that after installation, liners and covers 
must be inspected to ensure tight seams and joints and the absence of 
tears, punctures, or blisters and that while a drip pad is in 
operation, it must be inspected weekly and after storms to detect 
evidence of various types of damage to the drip pad or the systems that 
prevent and detect run-off and leakage.
    As with hazardous waste accumulated in containers by LQGs and SQGs 
and hazardous waste accumulated in tank systems by SQGs, there is no 
regulation requiring them to document the results of drip pad 
inspections. Therefore, the Agency requests comment on modifying the 
generator accumulation conditions (Sec. Sec.  262.16(b)(4) and 
262.17(a)(3) in the proposed reorganization) to add a condition that 
the generator record in a log the results of weekly inspections and 
inspections after storms and that the records address deterioration, 
malfunctions or improper operation of run-on and run-off control 
systems; the presence of leakage in and proper functioning of leakage 
detection systems; and deterioration or cracking of the drip pad 
surface. The generator would be required to keep a record of the 
inspections on site for at least three years from the date of the last 
inspection.
    In commenting, please consider whether it is environmentally and 
economically worthwhile to require SQGs accumulating hazardous waste on 
drip pads to document the results of weekly drip pad inspections. 
Additionally, the Agency requests comment on whether this documentation 
requirement should be limited to those generators that accumulate a 
certain amount of hazardous waste at any one time. The Agency also 
seeks comment from SQGs and LQGs in states who already must maintain 
records of their drip pad inspections on their experience with this 
provision, including whether it makes environmental and economic sense 
to ensure releases do not occur and whether there are effective 
alternative options that achieve the same goals.

G. Generator Closure Regulations

    EPA is proposing three changes to the closure conditions for 
exemption from permitting for LQGs in Sec.  262.34(a)(1)(iv)(B). First, 
EPA is proposing to consolidate the closure regulations for LQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste at Sec.  262.17(a)(8). This consolidation 
would include both the general performance requirements found at 
Sec. Sec.  265.111 and 265.114 for containers, tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings, and the unit specific requirements found at 
Sec.  265.197 for tanks, Sec.  265.445 for drip pads, and Sec.  
265.1102 for containment buildings.
    Second, EPA is proposing to strengthen the closure regulations for 
LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in containers in central accumulation 
areas that plan to stop hazardous waste accumulation in those 
containers by requiring them to meet the same type of closure 
regulations that apply for tanks, drip pads and containment buildings, 
including in those situations where a generator is not able to 
demonstrate that its contaminated soils can be practicably removed or 
decontaminated.
    Third, EPA is proposing to require an LQG to notify EPA or the 
authorized state using EPA form 8700-12 at least 30 days prior to 
closing the generator's site or when the generator closes a unit 
accumulating hazardous waste. Additionally, EPA is proposing that an 
LQG notify EPA or their authorized state within 90 days after closing 
the site or the unit accumulating the hazardous waste. This 
notification would state that the LQG has clean closed or failed to 
clean close and therefore must close as a landfill.
1. Consolidation of Closure Regulations for LQGs in Part 262
    EPA is proposing to consolidate all of the closure regulations for 
LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in tanks, drip pads, and containment 
buildings in the generator accumulation conditions (Sec.  262.17(a)(8) 
under the proposed reorganization). EPA believes that the current 
structure of these regulations can be confusing and difficult to 
follow.
    Currently, the closure regulations for LQGs are found at Sec.  
262.34(a)(1). These regulations refer to the general performance 
requirements for closure at Sec. Sec.  265.111 and 265.114. Section 
265.111 references the unit specific closure regulations found at 
subpart J of part 265 (for tanks), subpart W of part 265 (for drip 
pads) and subpart DD of part 265 (for containment buildings). The

[[Page 57954]]

closure regulations for LQGs refer to the TSDF regulations because the 
waste accumulation units at LQGs (tanks, drip pads, and containment 
buildings) are similar to those at TSDFs and, thus, present the same 
potential for adverse impacts to human health and the environment if 
closure is not conducted properly.
    However, while Sec. Sec.  265.111 and 265.114 cite the specific 
closure regulations for different types of units, missing from Sec.  
265.111 is a reference to drip pads and missing from Sec.  265.114 is a 
reference to both drip pads and containment buildings. The Agency 
believes these are inadvertent oversights where EPA failed to make the 
appropriate conforming changes when the regulations for drip pads and 
containment building were promulgated in 1990 and 1992, 
respectively.\78\
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    \78\ Memo from Robert Springer, Director of EPA's Office of 
Solid Waste, to RCRA Directors, September 24, 2003, RCRA Online 
14681; Drip Pad Closure Notification and Certification Requirements, 
November 1, 1997, RCRA Online 14130; and RCRA/Superfund Hotline 
Monthly Report, December 1998, RCRA Online 14321, that states: 
``LQGs are subject to the most stringent requirements, which include 
general closure provisions and unit-specific ones. The general 
closure requirements appear in Section 265.111 and Section 265.114 
(Section 262.34(a)(1)).'' Additionally, the report states: ``LQGs 
storing or treating waste in tanks, on drip pads, or in containment 
buildings are also subject to closure requirements specific to these 
types of units.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Furthermore, as with other parts of the hazardous waste generator 
regulations, the accumulation regulations at Sec.  262.34 often 
reference the detailed technical regulations of part 265 to reduce 
duplication. Part 265 describes the technical regulations for interim 
status TSDFs. Usually, the technical requirements in part 265 are clear 
in distinguishing the generator standards from standards for interim 
status TSDFs (e.g., Sec.  265.201 specifies that the provisions of that 
paragraph are only for SQGs); however, this is not the case for the LQG 
closure regulations.
    Finally, EPA believes the closure regulations are unnecessarily 
confusing. For example, the tank system regulations for LQGs at Sec.  
262.34(a)(1)(ii) make clear that the requirements of Sec.  265.197(c) 
do not apply to LQGs. Yet, LQGs must comply with Sec.  265.111, which 
in turn, at paragraph Sec.  265.111(c) requires LQGs to comply with 
Sec.  265.197, which includes paragraph (c). One commenter wrote about 
this confusion when the Agency proposed to clarify the closure 
regulations for LQGs as part its March 18, 2010, Hazardous Waste 
Technical Corrections and Clarifications Direct Final Rule (75 FR 
12989).\79\ The Agency has made clear in guidance that generators are 
not subject to Sec.  265.111(c), except if the facility cannot clean 
close its waste accumulation unit(s), but we believe that a regulatory 
change would make this even more clear.\80\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \79\ Comments from the National Mining Association, May 3. 2010. 
Docket ID No: ID EPA-HQ-RCRA-2008-0678.
    \80\ RCRA/Superfund Hotline Monthly Report, December 1998, RCRA 
Online 14321.
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    Therefore, as a first step in improving the usefulness of the 
closure regulations for LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in 
containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings, EPA is 
proposing to consolidate and integrate all relevant closure provisions 
for LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in tanks, drip pads, and 
containments buildings at Sec.  262.17(a)(8). The closure regulations 
include the following: (1) the general closure performance standards 
found at Sec.  265.111(a) and (b); (2) a modified version of the 
standards found at Sec.  265.114 (Disposal or decontamination of 
contaminated equipment, structures, and soils) that incorporates 
regulatory language applicable to containers, tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings undergoing closure; (3) the unit-specific closure 
regulations relevant to tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings 
found at Sec. Sec.  265.197(a) and (b), 265.445(a) and (b), and 
265.1102(a) and (b), respectively;\81\ (4) a provision addressing the 
disposition of any hazardous waste generated in the process of closing 
either the generator's site or unit(s) accumulating hazardous waste, 
and (5) a provision addressing the situation when a waste accumulation 
unit or site cannot clean close and must close as a landfill. This 
includes situations where an LQG accumulating hazardous wastes in 
containers cannot clean close. More specifically, the proposed new 
closure regulations in the generator accumulation conditions at Sec.  
262.17(a)(8)(ii) would require LQGs at closure to close the waste 
accumulation unit or site in a manner that achieves all of the 
following:
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    \81\ Note: During the partial and final closure periods, all 
contaminated equipment, structures and soil must be properly 
disposed of, or decontaminated unless specified otherwise in Sec.  
265.197, 265.228, 265.258, 265.280, or 265.310. By removing all 
hazardous wastes or hazardous constituents during partial and final 
closure, the owner or operator may become a generator of hazardous 
waste and must handle that hazardous waste in accordance with all 
applicable requirements of part 262.
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    (1) Minimizes the need for further maintenance by controlling, 
minimizing, or eliminating, to the extent necessary to protect human 
health and the environment, the post-closure escape of hazardous waste, 
hazardous constituents, leachate, contaminated run-off, or hazardous 
waste decomposition products to the ground or surface waters or to the 
atmosphere;
    (2) Properly disposes of or decontaminates all contaminated 
equipment, structures and soil and any remaining hazardous waste 
residues from waste accumulation units including containment system 
components (pads, liners, etc.), contaminated soils and subsoils, 
bases, and structures and equipment contaminated with waste. Any 
hazardous waste residues remaining in the unit(s) being closed must be 
removed from the unit(s). Any leakage must also be decontaminated or 
removed and managed as a hazardous waste unless Sec.  261.3(d) applies;
    (3) Manages any hazardous waste generated in the process of closing 
either the generator's site or unit(s) accumulating hazardous waste in 
accordance with all applicable requirements of parts 260 through 270, 
including removing any hazardous waste contained in these units within 
90 days of generating it and managing these wastes in a RCRA Subtitle C 
hazardous waste permitted or interim status treatment, storage and 
disposal facility or interim status facility; and
    (4) Ensures that if the generator demonstrates that all 
contaminated soils cannot be practicably removed or decontaminated as 
required in this section, then the generator must close the waste 
accumulation unit(s) and perform post-closure care in accordance with 
the closure and post-closure care regulations that apply to landfills 
(Sec.  265.310). In addition, for the purposes of closure, post-
closure, and financial responsibility, such a waste accumulation unit 
is then considered to be a landfill, and the generator must meet all of 
the standards for landfills specified in subparts G and H of part 265.
2. Closure Regulations for LQGs Accumulating Hazardous Waste in 
Containers
    As an additional condition to qualify to accumulate hazardous waste 
without a permit or interim status, EPA is proposing to require LQGs 
accumulating hazardous wastes in containers in central accumulation 
areas that plan to stop hazardous waste accumulation in those 
containers to meet the same type of closure regulations discussed 
above--that is, the closure regulations for tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings. This includes situations where an LQG 
accumulating hazardous wastes in containers can demonstrate that any

[[Page 57955]]

contaminated soils cannot be practicably removed or decontaminated and 
as a result, the generator must close the waste accumulation unit(s) 
and perform post-closure care in accordance with the closure and post-
closure care requirements that apply to landfills (Sec.  265.310). In 
addition, for the purposes of closure, post-closure, and financial 
responsibility, such a waste accumulation unit is then considered to be 
a landfill, and the generator must meet all of the requirements for 
landfills specified in subparts G and H of part 265.
    Supporting these proposed regulations are damage cases by 
generators who accumulated hazardous wastes in containers. An 
examination of Superfund removal actions shows LQGs accumulating 
hazardous waste in containers have sometimes closed their doors or 
abandoned their sites, resulting in environmental problems.\82\ Most 
LQGs use containers to accumulate hazardous wastes. Some LQGs may 
generate relatively small quantities of hazardous waste and therefore 
may not need many containers to accumulate their hazardous wastes, but 
other generators generate a sufficient quantity of hazardous waste to 
require the use of a large number of containers each day. Not ensuring 
that these sites are closed properly increases the risk of more damage 
cases.
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    \82\ See EPA's On Scene Coordinator (OSC) Web site: http://www.epaosc.org.
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    For LQGs that accumulate hazardous waste in containers or container 
units, EPA is proposing closure regulations that replicate the 
regulations in paragraphs Sec.  262.17(a)(8)(ii), mentioned above. The 
Agency believes the closure regulations are applicable to LQGs who have 
accumulated hazardous waste in containers as well as to LQGs who have 
accumulated hazardous waste in tanks, drip pads and containment 
buildings in order to prevent adverse impacts to human health and 
environment. Therefore, as with LQGs that accumulate hazardous wastes 
in tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings, should a generator 
decide to close a container or stop accumulating hazardous waste in 
containers at the site altogether, it would be responsible for 
complying with the regulations proposed at Sec.  262.17(a)(8)(ii) and 
removing all relevant hazardous wastes accumulated within 90 days of 
generating it and any hazardous wastes that also may have been 
accumulated in SAAs. Otherwise, the generator would fail to meet the 
conditions for the exemption from permitting and would be subject to 
the requirements of 40 CFR parts 264, 265, 267 and the permit 
requirements of part 270.
3. Notification by LQGs Upon Closure of their Hazardous Waste 
Accumulation Units
    EPA is also proposing that an LQG notify either EPA or its 
authorized state at least 30 days prior to closure of a hazardous waste 
accumulation unit, such as a container, tank, drip pad, or containment 
building, or closure of the site altogether. EPA is also proposing that 
such generators subsequently notify EPA or its authorized state no 
later than 90 days after closure of the site or a hazardous waste 
accumulation unit that they have either clean closed (e.g., complied 
with the applicable generator closure regulations) or, if they cannot 
clean close, that they must close as a landfill. If these changes are 
finalized, EPA will amend EPA form 8700-12 to incorporate collection of 
this information.
    The hazardous waste regulatory program is a ``cradle to grave'' 
system in which any hazardous waste generated by an LQG (or SQG) must 
be subsequently managed, either on site or off site at an appropriate 
RCRA destination facility. Missing from the current regulatory 
framework is knowledge by the regulatory authority that the LQG, upon 
closing either a waste accumulation unit or closing the site 
altogether, properly closed the accumulation unit in compliance with 
the applicable closure regulations. Without this knowledge, regulatory 
authorities do not know whether generators have abandoned the site, 
leaving behind hazardous waste that could subsequently result in a 
release to the environment and adverse impacts to human health and the 
environment. Thus, these closure notifications are important to ensure 
that LQGs close their waste accumulation unit, or site, in compliance 
with the applicable closure regulations. Fail to properly close would 
be a violation of the waste accumulation exemption.
4. Request for Comment
    EPA requests comment regarding its proposal to consolidate the 
closure regulations for hazardous waste generated by LQGs in Sec.  
262.17(a)(8) and whether this approach would improve the readability/
understandability of the rules, and thus, improve compliance. EPA also 
requests comment on whether parts of the proposed closure regulations 
at Sec.  262.17(a)(8) should be modified.
    EPA also requests comment regarding its proposal to strengthen the 
closure regulations for LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in 
containers.
    In addition, EPA requests comment on whether it should require LQGs 
to notify EPA regarding closure both prior to closure (e.g., at least 
30 days prior to closure) and after closure (e.g., notify no later than 
90 days after the site has closed one or all of its hazardous waste 
accumulation units either by clean closure or closed as a landfill) or 
whether EPA should just require notification only once--that is, after 
closure (e.g., no later than 90 days after closure). Requiring 
notification only after closure of the hazardous waste accumulation 
unit or site reduces the generator's paperwork burden in half and 
allows EPA and the state to focus on results. However, requiring 
notification both before and after closure creates greater visibility 
for this important activity. The notification creates an incentive for 
the generator to take all appropriate actions once the unit or site is 
closed and also provides notice to EPA and the state to be aware of 
this important activity and to plan for a possible inspection to verify 
clean closure has successfully occurred or determine if additional 
closure efforts are needed. EPA is currently of the opinion that the 
additional environmental benefits accrued from requiring both 
notifications will exceed the additional paperwork costs to the 
generator. In conjunction with an LQG notifying EPA no later than 90 
days after closure, EPA is also requesting comment on whether, as part 
of the closure notification requirements, LQGs should be required to 
certify that they have clean closed or failed to clean close all 
applicable hazardous waste accumulation units. This type of 
notification would have the added benefit of ensuring EPA knows that an 
LQG performed their due diligence in closing and can certify to either 
clean closing or closing as a landfill.
    Because there are no federal regulations for closure of a waste 
accumulation unit or site closure by SQGs, SQGs are not required to 
comply with the clean closure regulations, as well as notify when they 
close any or all waste accumulation units. Unlike LQGs, which have no 
waste accumulation limits as long as they remove any hazardous waste 
within 90 days of generating it, SQGs do have a waste accumulation 
quantity limitation of 6,000 kilograms. Given this waste accumulation 
quantity limitation, EPA sees no reason at this time to propose 
requiring SQGs to clean close or close as a landfill if they cannot 
clean close. However, EPA sees a potential benefit in having SQGs 
notify EPA when SQGs

[[Page 57956]]

close to allow the regulatory authority to follow-up and ensure that 
all hazardous waste was removed and properly managed. Therefore, EPA is 
requesting comment regarding whether SQGs that stop accumulating and 
close any or all of their hazardous waste accumulation units should 
notify EPA within 60 days after closing.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The LQG closure regulations would move to 
Sec.  262.17(a)(8). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.

H. Changes to the Preparedness, Prevention, and Emergency Procedures 
Provisions (40 CFR 262.34(a)(4) and 262.34(d)(4) and (5))

    EPA is proposing a number of modifications to the conditions for 
exemption for both SQGs and LQGs regarding preparedness, prevention and 
emergency procedures. The conditions for SQGs are found at Sec. Sec.  
262.34(d)(4) and (5) (which refer to the technical standards at 40 CFR 
part 265 subpart C) and the conditions for LQGs are found at Sec.  
262.34(a)(4) (which refers to the technical standards at part 265 
subparts C and D).
    The proposed revisions are organized in this section as follows: 
(1) Revising the scope of the contingency planning and emergency 
procedures regulations; (2) revising Sec.  265.37(a) to state that when 
making arrangements with local authorities regarding emergency 
procedures, an SQG or LQG must first attempt to make emergency 
preparedness and procedures agreements with its Local Emergency 
Planning Committee (LEPC), and, if this attempt is not successful (or 
there is no LEPC in the area), the generator must make an arrangement 
with its local fire department and other emergency responders; (3) 
modifying the regulations for contingency plans for LQGs in Sec. Sec.  
265.52 and 265.53 to add an executive summary to the plan that a new 
LQG would submit to the LEPC and to adjust the content of an element of 
the required contingency plan; (4) making two revisions to the 
technical standards regarding required equipment that are part of the 
preparedness and prevention regulations in part 265 subpart C that are 
applicable to both SQGs and LQGs; (5) modifying the preparedness and 
prevention provisions for SQGs at Sec.  262.34(d)(5) regarding posted 
emergency coordinator information and responsibility for cleaning up a 
spill; (6) modifying the personnel training provision for LQGs; (7) 
taking comment on what personnel should have mandated personnel 
training, and (8) taking comment on whether any of these proposed 
revisions would be appropriate for TSDFs in addition to generators.
    Recent catastrophic chemical accidents in the United States, such 
as the 2013 West, Texas, fire and explosion that killed 15 people, the 
2010 explosion and fire at Tesoro Refinery in Anacortes, Washington, 
that killed seven employees, and the 2012 Chevron Refinery hydrocarbon 
fire in Richmond, California, that affected 15,000 people in the 
surrounding area, highlight the need for continued improvement in a 
number of areas related to chemical facility safety. To address these 
concerns, the President issued Executive Order 13650--Improving 
Chemical Facility Safety and Security (EO) on August 1, 2013.\83\ The 
EO directed the Department of Homeland Security, EPA, the Department of 
Labor, the Department of Justice, the Department of Agriculture, and 
the Department of Transportation to identify ways to improve 
operational coordination with state, local, tribal, and territorial 
partners; enhance federal agency coordination and information sharing; 
modernize policies, regulations, and standards to enhance safety and 
security in chemical facilities; and work with stakeholders to identify 
best practices to reduce safety and security risks in the production 
and storage of potentially harmful chemicals.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \83\ http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/08/01/executive-order-improving-chemical-facility-safety-and-security.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One of the key goals the EPA is addressing through this effort is 
enhancing and providing additional support to State Emergency Response 
Commissions (SERCs) and LEPCs to assist them in collecting and 
analyzing the chemical information they receive from local facilities 
and developing local emergency response plans to mitigate or prevent a 
devastating chemical disaster. Several of the proposed requirements are 
aligned with these EO efforts and will assist in furthering this goal 
and with those of the EO in general because they update the regulations 
to make them compatible with the current infrastructure of emergency 
planning and response by referencing LEPCs. Additionally, these 
revisions would provide a more usable contingency plan to emergency 
responders en route to a time-sensitive emergency at a generator of 
hazardous waste. Before finalizing these provisions, EPA will ensure 
that they are aligned with the efforts to improve chemical plant safety 
and security under the EO.
    This preamble also discusses how EPA might incorporate modern 
technology into the emergency planning and procedures regulations for 
generators in order to provide information more quickly to emergency 
responders when faced with an event at a generator.
    In addition to the changes listed above, as part of the 
reorganization of the preamble discussed in section XIII, EPA is 
proposing to copy the preparedness and prevention regulations for SQGs 
into Sec.  262.16 and to create a new subpart in part 262--subpart M--
that would contain the more extensive preparedness, prevention, and 
emergency procedures regulations for LQGs. Copying a version of these 
regulations into part 262 allows most of the preparedness, prevention, 
and emergency procedures regulations for generators to be easily found 
without accessing part 265 and with minimal cross-referencing.\84\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \84\ Note that throughout this section, although we are 
referring to the regulations by their current citations, the fact 
that we are also proposing in most cases to reorganize those 
requirements and copy them into the generator requirements in part 
262 means that the revisions discussed in this section would not 
automatically apply to interim status TSDFs, as the proposed 
revisions only apply to the version of these regulations that is 
being proposed to be in part 262.
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    As part of this reorganization, our proposed regulation has 
replaced the word ``facility'' in the regulations with ``site'' because 
``facility'' is defined in Sec.  260.10 as specific to TSDFs. Another 
small revision that we propose because of the reorganization of these 
regulations is folding the ``comment'' in Sec.  265.55 into the body of 
the corresponding proposed regulation at Sec.  262.264. We are 
proposing this because Federal Register style no longer permits this 
kind of comment in new regulations.
1. Areas Subject to Preparedness, Contingency Planning, and Emergency 
Procedures Regulations
    The current preparedness and emergency procedures regulations do 
not clearly state whether they are applicable to the entire generator 
site or only to areas where hazardous waste is generated and 
accumulated on site (or where allowable treatment may occur in 
accumulation units) and when transported off site for subsequent 
treatment, storage, and disposal. EPA is proposing that the regulations 
for preparedness and prevention and for contingency planning and 
emergency procedures apply only to those areas of a generator's site 
where hazardous waste

[[Page 57957]]

is generated and accumulated and, where applicable, to those areas 
where allowable treatment may occur in accumulation units.
    The Agency is proposing to explicitly state that the RCRA 
preparedness and emergency procedures regulations are limited strictly 
to areas where hazardous waste is generated and accumulated.
    The Agency has previously signaled that these requirements do not 
apply to the entire generator site. In a November 7, 2006, letter, EPA 
stated that the 40 CFR part 265 regulations for LQGs set forth in Sec.  
262.34(a)(4) apply to units accumulating hazardous wastes. The letter 
states that in order to comply with the part 265 requirements 
referenced in Sec.  262.34(a)(4), LQGs only need to address those 
tanks, containers, drip pads, and containment buildings that accumulate 
hazardous wastes and are subject to the 90-day generator accumulation 
provision. As an example, the letter states that when developing a 
contingency plan, LQGs would only need to include those 90-day 
accumulation units involving the on-site management of hazardous 
waste.\85\
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    \85\ Memorandum from Matt Hale, Director of EPA's Office of 
Solid Waste, to RCRA Division Directors, November 7, 2006, RCRA 
Online 14758.
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    It makes sense to limit the applicability of these regulations only 
to these areas because several other statutes already address the 
development and implementation of contingency plans associated with 
other areas of a generator site, such as the storage of chemical 
materials other than hazardous wastes. We also note that considerable 
overlap exists in the requirements in the various statutes and, since 
1997, the federal government has encouraged facilities to develop 
integrated contingency plans and has provided guidance for doing so in 
the Federal Register. The integrated contingency plan is discussed 
further in section VIII.H.3, below.
    The language EPA is proposing to change currently appears in 
Sec. Sec.  265.30 and 265.50, though we are proposing to move it to a 
new part 262 subpart M to make it specific to generators. EPA proposes 
that subpart M apply only to those areas of a large quantity generator 
where hazardous waste is generated and accumulated on site in 
accordance with the conditions in Sec.  262.17. This proposal includes 
a parallel change for the emergency procedures regulations for small 
quantity generators in Sec.  262.16.
    The Agency requests comment on making it explicit in the 
regulations that the preparedness, prevention, and emergency procedures 
regulations apply only to those areas of the generator's site where 
hazardous waste is generated and accumulated, and where applicable, 
those areas where allowable treatment may occur in accumulation units.
    Effect of Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by the 
proposed reorganization. The proposed revisions would appear at Sec.  
262.250 in a new subpart M of part 262 and would not appear in part 
265. The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
2. Making Arrangements With the Local Emergency Planning Committee
    Sections 262.34(a)(4) and (d)(4) set forth conditions for LQGs and 
SQGs that accumulate without a permit. Both these paragraphs include 
references to part 265 subpart C, which contains a reference to Sec.  
265.37. Section 265.37(a) states that ``The owner or operator must 
attempt to make the following arrangements, as appropriate for the type 
of waste handled at his facility and the potential need for the 
services of these organizations'' and goes on to list the types of 
local emergency officials that should be informed about hazardous waste 
at a facility, such as fire departments and emergency response teams, 
and the information the generator should provide them.
    The Agency is proposing to revise this provision for generators to 
state that SQGs and LQGs must first attempt to enter into agreements 
with their LEPC, but if there is no LEPC in the area or if the LEPC 
does not respond or is unwilling to enter an agreement, the generator 
must enter into an agreement(s) with the local fire department and 
other emergency responders. This proposed revision would add to the 
regulations both a reference to LEPCs and an explicit statement that 
generators must enter into an agreement with emergency planning 
officials, rather than just attempt to enter into an agreement.
    a. Local emergency planning committees. The Agency is proposing to 
revise regulations that were finalized in 1980. The national and local 
infrastructure for emergency planning and response has changed 
significantly since that time, but these regulations have not been 
updated to reflect those changes. The proposed revision to specifically 
name LEPCs in this regulation addresses that deficiency.
    The Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) was enacted 
in 1986. Title III of SARA is also known as the Emergency Planning and 
Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA). EPCRA helps increase the public's 
knowledge and access to information regarding chemicals at individual 
facilities, their uses, and releases into the environment. States and 
communities, working with facilities, can use the information to 
improve chemical safety and protect public health and the environment. 
EPCRA requires both small and large entities to report chemical 
information to the SERC, the LEPC, the local fire department, and 
tribal nations.
    EPCRA requires LEPCs to prepare a comprehensive plan for local 
communities designed to help them prepare for and respond to 
emergencies involving extremely hazardous substances (EHS). Facilities 
covered by EPCRA planning provisions are required to cooperate in 
emergency plan preparation and designate a facility emergency 
coordinator to participate in the planning process as well as notify 
their SERC and LEPC within 60 days of becoming subject to the emergency 
planning requirements (when an EHS is first present at the facility 
from a shipment or production). Additionally, as part of the community-
right-to-know provisions of EPCRA, facilities that have hazardous 
chemicals for which they must have or prepare an MSDS or SDS and have 
at or above the threshold amount of those chemicals must also annually 
complete and submit an Emergency and Hazardous Chemical Inventory form 
(also known as a Tier II) to the LEPC, to the SERC, and to the local 
fire department by March 1. These facilities must send copies of their 
MSDS, SDS, or a list of hazardous chemicals to the LEPC, to the SERC, 
and to the fire department.\86\
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    \86\ The regulations implementing the emergency planning and 
notification requirements of EPCRA can be found at 40 CFR part 355.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In turn, LEPCs must develop an emergency response plan, review it 
at least annually, and provide information about chemicals in the 
community to citizens. These plans are developed by LEPCs with 
stakeholder participation. There are more than 3,000 designated local 
emergency planning districts, although not all of these districts have 
functioning LEPCs. The LEPC membership must include (at a minimum) 
elected state and local officials; police, fire, civil defense, and 
public health professionals; environment, transportation, and hospital 
officials; facility representatives; and representatives from community 
groups and the media. Although in many areas the LEPCs are the main 
organizing entities for emergency response, the RCRA hazardous waste 
regulations do not

[[Page 57958]]

mention them or their role in contingency planning.
    The proposed language directly references LEPCs, stating that the 
generator must make arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning 
Committee for the types and quantities of hazardous waste handled at 
the site.\87\ This modification merely updates the RCRA hazardous waste 
regulations to match the current emergency planning landscape.
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    \87\ Although much of the discussion of these provisions for the 
purposes of this rule revolves around hazardous waste generators, 
because the provisions are located in part 265 for interim status 
hazardous waste TSDFs, they will refer to the persons regulated as 
``owner or operator'' and the entity being regulated as the 
``facility.''
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    Consistent with this proposed modification at Sec.  265.37, the 
Agency is also proposing that when the language in current Sec.  
265.52(c) is copied into part 262, it state that the plan must describe 
arrangements agreed to with the Local Emergency Planning Committee. 
Should there be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, should it not 
respond, or should the Local Emergency Planning Committee determine 
that it is not the appropriate organization to make arrangements with, 
then the large quantity generator must make arrangements with its local 
fire department and other relevant emergency responders (e.g., police 
and hospitals) to coordinate emergency services, pursuant to Sec.  
262.256.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposal to modify the language 
in Sec. Sec.  265.37(a) and 265.52(c) when they are copied into part 
262.
    Effect of Proposed Reorganization: These sections are affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in 
the SQG standards at Sec.  262.16(b)(8)(vi) and in the new part 262 
subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  262.256 for arrangements and Sec.  
262.261(c) for the content of the contingency plan. The reorganization 
is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
    b. Making required arrangements. The other proposed modification to 
the language currently in Sec.  265.37(a) when it is copied into part 
262 addresses the ambiguity of the current language, which requires 
only that the owner or operator ``attempt to make'' arrangements with 
local emergency response authorities.
    Section 265.37(a) states that the owner or operator must attempt to 
make arrangements with local fire and emergency organizations, as 
appropriate for the type of waste handled at the facility and the 
potential need for the services of these organizations. Paragraph 
(a)(1) makes clear that these arrangements involve familiarizing these 
organizations with the layout of the facility, properties of the 
hazardous waste handled at the facility and associated hazards, places 
where facility personnel would normally be working, entrances to roads 
inside the facility, and possible evacuation routes. Because an SQG is 
not required to submit a contingency plan, this language suggests that 
SQGs need only invite local officials to visit and familiarize 
themselves with the site as compared to LQGs, which are required to 
develop a written contingency plan and provide it to local officials.
    Given the importance of emergency preparedness and planning, EPA is 
proposing to require that an SQG or an LQG must make direct 
arrangements with its LEPC as part of this condition. The Agency 
believes the LEPCs, in turn, will work with their local responders to 
integrate the activities of SQGs and LQGs into the overall emergency 
response plan.
    Many SQGs and LQGs may already have arrangements with their LEPCs 
because most SQGs and LQGs either have EHSs that require reporting to 
the LEPC, which triggers EPCRA emergency planning requirements, or use 
chemicals that require an SDS, triggering the EPCRA community right-to-
know requirement to report to LEPCs. However, in the case that a 
hazardous waste generator does not have a relationship with the LEPC, 
that LEPC may view working with non-EPCRA facilities as outside the 
scope of their authority. Alternatively, there may be a hazardous waste 
generator in a location where there is no organized LEPC. Therefore, as 
part of this regulation, EPA proposes to require that an SQG or LQG 
attempt to make formal arrangements with its LEPC unless there is no 
LEPC, the LEPC does not respond, or the LEPC determines that it is not 
the appropriate organization to make an arrangement with. In this case, 
the SQG or LQG would be required to make arrangements with its local 
fire department, as well as with other relevant emergency responders, 
such as the police department and local hospitals.
    The proposed regulatory text for this condition would state that 
the generator must make arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning 
Committee for the types and quantities of hazardous waste handled at 
the site, as well as the potential need for the services of the local 
police department, other emergency response teams, emergency response 
contractors, equipment suppliers, and local hospitals.\88\ Should there 
be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, should it not respond, or 
should the Local Emergency Planning Committee determine that it is not 
the appropriate organization to make arrangements with, then the 
generator must make arrangements with the local fire department and 
other relevant emergency responders (e.g., police and hospitals).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \88\ This condition is being proposed at Sec.  
262.16(b)(8)(vi)(A) for SQGs and Sec.  262.256 for LQGs due to the 
proposed reorganization.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA is also proposing regulatory text that describes procedures for 
how a facility that is not able to make arrangements with the LEPC 
would make such arrangements with the fire department and other local 
emergency services. Much of this language corresponds with the existing 
standards for making arrangements with emergency responders. These 
mandated steps are not necessary in the case of arrangements with the 
LEPC because that group is likely to have standardized procedures of 
its own to follow to make these arrangements with facilities.
    The Agency requests comment on its proposal to require an SQG or an 
LQG to enter into arrangements with its LEPC unless there is no LEPC, 
the LEPC does not respond, or the LEPC determines that it is not the 
appropriate organization to make arrangements with, in which case the 
SQG or LQG would enter into an arrangement with its local emergency 
responders.
    EPA is also proposing to add new language to supplement this 
condition because current Sec.  265.37(a) does not specify the 
frequency that hazardous waste generators must make arrangements with 
local authorities. For example, should arrangements be updated 
according to a set schedule or only when modification is needed. 
Considering that some SQGs and LQGs may already coordinate with their 
LEPCs annually as part of their EPCRA requirements, the Agency is of 
the opinion that it is not necessary to include time frames for 
updating in this rule. The Agency requests comments on whether the 
regulations should mandate how frequently a generator must communicate 
with its LEPC or local fire department if it has not otherwise 
communicated with them.
    Effect of Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by the 
proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in the 
SQG standards at Sec.  262.16(b)(8)(vi) and in the new part 262 subpart 
M for LQGs at Sec.  262.256. The reorganization is discussed in section 
XIII of this preamble.

[[Page 57959]]

    c. Documenting arrangements. As noted above, the EPA thinks it is 
important for both SQGs and LQGs to make arrangements with their LEPCs. 
In addition, EPA believes that documentation of these arrangements 
would be useful in ensuring that generators have taken the necessary 
steps to prepare for an emergency and have a clearly defined plan with 
the LEPC for emergency response. Therefore, when EPA copies this 
condition into part 262, EPA is proposing to modify the language to 
state that the generator shall maintain records documenting the 
arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning Committee, or if 
appropriate, with the local fire department as well as any other 
organization necessary to respond to an emergency. This documentation 
may include a certified letter or any other documentation that confirms 
such arrangements actively exist.
    One alternative suggested as part of the 2004 Program Evaluation of 
the hazardous waste generator regulatory program would be to require 
hazardous waste generators to list the emergency response agencies that 
have agreed to respond in the event of an emergency with some 
documentation confirming that the arrangements exist. In addition to 
helping generators prepare for emergencies, documentation of these 
arrangements would provide the necessary information for inspectors 
when determining compliance. The Agency believes this alternative may 
be the most effective approach to addressing the ambiguity that exists 
with the existing regulations at Sec.  265.37(b).
    The Agency seeks comment on this proposed change to documentation, 
in particular whether local ordinances already require generators to 
have documentation of arrangements with local emergency response 
organizations.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in 
the SQG standards at Sec.  262.16(b)(8)(vi) and in the new part 262 
subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  262.256(b). The reorganization is discussed 
in section XIII of this preamble.
    d. Request for comment on emergency procedures at large facilities 
with internal emergency teams. Many large organizations, particularly 
those that operate 24 hours a day, such as airports and military bases, 
have their own emergency response capabilities. This raises the 
question of whether and under what circumstances arrangements with 
local authorities would not be needed to ensure effective emergency 
response. The Agency seeks comment on the feasibility of providing a 
waiver from requiring either an SQG or LQG to enter into arrangements 
with an LEPC or, if appropriate, other local authorities when they have 
24-hour on-site emergency response capabilities, particularly under 
what circumstances a waiver would be granted.
3. Changes to Contingency Plan Regulations for LQGs
    Under Sec.  262.34(a)(4), LQGs are required to comply with 40 CFR 
part 265 subpart D, Sec. Sec.  265.50-265.56, which describes the 
regulations on contingency planning and emergency procedures. These 
regulations address the purpose of the contingency plan, what it must 
contain, who receives copies, how to amend the contingency plan, and 
responsibilities of the facility's emergency coordinator and emergency 
procedures. One important thing to note is that the owner or operator 
of the facility can develop one contingency plan that meets all the 
regulatory standards for the various statutory and regulatory 
provisions for contingency planning:
     EPA's Oil Pollution Prevention Regulation (SPCC and 
Facility Response Plan Requirements) at 40 CFR 112.7(d), 112.20, and 
112.21;
     EPA's Risk Management Programs Regulation at 40 CFR part 
68;
     EPA's Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Contingency 
Planning Requirements at 40 CFR part 264 subpart D, 40 CFR part 265 
subpart D, and 40 CFR 279.52;
     Department of Interior's Bureau of Safety and 
Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) Facility Response Plan Regulation at 
30 CFR part 254;
     Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 
(PHMSA) Response Plans for Onshore Oil Pipelines at 49 CFR part 194;
     U.S. Coast Guard's (USCG) Facility Response Plan 
Regulation at 33 CFR part 154 subpart F;
     OSHA's Emergency Action Plan Regulation at 29 CFR 
1910.38(a);
     OSHA's Process Safety Standard at 29 CFR 1910.119; and
     OSHA's HAZWOPER Regulation at 29 CFR 1910.120.
    EPA recommends that generators base their contingency plan on the 
National Response Team's Integrated Contingency Plan Guidance (One 
Plan), discussed in the Federal Register on June 5, 1996, at 61 FR 
28642.
    In this action, EPA is proposing three modifications to the 
contingency planning regulations for generators: One is meant to 
improve the ability of emergency response teams to respond to an 
emergency at an LQG and the other two are technical changes to the 
content of the contingency plan.
    a. Submitting a contingency plan executive summary to emergency 
management authorities. The Agency is proposing to require that a new 
LQG, as of the effective date of the rule, submit an executive summary 
of its contingency plan to the emergency management authorities. As 
part of this revision, EPA proposes to change the language of the 
regulation to include LEPCs, as discussed above in section VIII.H.2.
    The current regulations at Sec.  265.53 state that a copy of the 
contingency plan must be submitted to all local police departments, 
fire departments, hospitals, and state and local emergency response 
teams that may be called upon to provide emergency services.
    In discussions with EPA, emergency management professionals 
indicated that the length of the facility contingency plans prevents 
first responders from being able to fully review a facility's 
contingency plan when responding to an emergency.\89\ Instead, they 
need readily available information that describes what they must 
confront when they arrive at the scene. Once the incident is under 
control, the first responders can then review the detailed contingency 
plan to determine their next steps, if applicable. Thus, the Agency 
believes that a shorter document, such as an executive summary of the 
contingency plan would be more effective for an emergency responder 
when responding to an incident at a facility accumulating hazardous 
waste. As currently happens in practice, once the incident is under 
control, then the emergency responders can review the more detailed 
contingency plan if necessary for long-term responses.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \89\ Notes from discussion with Phil Oakes and Jim Narva, 
International Association of Fire Marshalls, concerning Contingency 
Planning and Emergency Response Regulations, July 2012.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    A review of the information required as part of a RCRA contingency 
plan in Sec.  265.52, as well as information required by the local fire 
department, identified certain components that would be useful in an 
executive summary and EPA used this information in developing this 
proposed regulation. Specifically, the Agency is proposing to require 
that the following information be included in an executive summary to 
assist emergency responders in the event of an incident: (1) The types/
names of hazardous wastes in layman's terms and the associated hazard 
associated with each waste present at any one time (e.g., toxic paint 
wastes,

[[Page 57960]]

spent ignitable solvent, corrosive acid); (2) the estimated maximum 
amount of each waste that may be present at any one time; (3) the 
identification of any hazardous wastes where exposure would require a 
unique or special treatment by medical or hospital staff; (4) a map of 
the site showing where hazardous wastes are generated and accumulated 
and routes for accessing these wastes; (5) a street map of the facility 
in relation to surrounding businesses, schools, and residential areas 
to understand how best to get to the facility and also evacuate 
citizens and workers; (6) the locations of water supply (e.g., fire 
hydrant and its flow rate, drafting locations); (7) the identification 
of on-site notification systems (e.g., a fire alarm that rings off-
site, smoke alarms); and (8) the name of the emergency coordinator and 
24/7 emergency telephone number.
    EPA believes these are the appropriate elements for the executive 
summary but is taking comment on them. In addition, for identification 
of the hazardous waste under element (1), EPA is taking comment on 
whether providing the name of the waste in layman's terms is sufficient 
for ensuring that first responders will be able to identify the 
appropriate actions to take in response. A reference to the material in 
the North American Emergency Response Guide, where appropriate, would 
likely reduce the time it takes for first responders to get the 
necessary information for managing the situation. EPA is interested in 
whether this type of reference would be useful to first responders and 
whether generators can easily access this information to add to their 
contingency plans.
    EPA is also taking comment on whether the executive summary should 
add to element (3) a requirement that the generator provide information 
on the medical information for exposure to those hazardous wastes that 
do require special treatment. EPA is specifically interested in whether 
this information is readily available to the generator to be included 
in the executive summary of the contingency plan and whether first 
responders would find this additional information useful for responses.
    Under the proposed condition for contingency plans at LQGs, EPA is 
proposing that an LQG that becomes subject to this rule after the 
rule's effective date be required to develop and submit an executive 
summary of its contingency plan to the LEPC in addition to the full 
contingency plan. The Agency is not proposing to require that an LQG 
that has already developed and submitted a contingency plan to local 
emergency responders develop an executive summary because of the 
additional burden that would be imposed on existing LQGs to go back to 
their contingency plans and develop this summary. The Agency has 
determined that developing the executive summary during the initial 
writing of the contingency plan would not be a significant extra step. 
However, we recommend that an LQG that is not required to develop an 
executive summary of its contingency plan may want to do so and submit 
that executive summary to the LEPC when doing a periodic update on its 
contingency plan to ensure that the emergency responders have the 
appropriate information on hand in the event of an emergency.
    EPA, therefore, is proposing to modify the condition regarding 
copies of the contingency plan to require that a copy of the 
contingency plan and all revisions to the plan must be maintained at 
the large quantity generator's site and the large quantity generator 
must submit a copy of the contingency plan to the Local Emergency 
Planning Committee. If there is no Local Emergency Planning Committee, 
if it does not respond, or if the Local Emergency Planning Committee 
determines that it is not the appropriate organization to make 
arrangements with, the facility must then submit the copy to the local 
emergency responders.
    We are proposing to list in the regulations the eight elements 
described above as the most valuable items for emergency responders.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed revision. In addition, 
EPA requests comment on whether an existing LQG that has already 
provided its full contingency plan should also be required to submit an 
executive summary to the LEPC or, if appropriate, the fire department 
or other emergency responders.
    The Agency also requests comment on whether an SQG should be 
required to develop an executive summary of a contingency plan. The 
major differences between the preparedness, prevention, and emergency 
procedures regulations applicable to SQGs and those applicable to LQGs 
are the development and implementation of a contingency plan and more 
rigorous responsibilities for the LQG emergency coordinator. Realizing 
that many SQGs may already have developed contingency plans to comply 
with other statutory and regulatory requirements, however, many of the 
elements of an executive summary may already be available and that the 
only addition would be summary information on the types and quantities 
of hazardous waste on site, their associated risks, and their location 
within the facility. Therefore, requiring SQGs to provide an executive 
summary of a contingency plan to first responders could provide 
information that is critical during emergencies with little extra 
effort by the SQGs.
    Effect of Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by the 
proposed reorganization. These proposed regulations would appear in the 
new part 262 subpart M for LQGs at Sec. Sec.  262.261 and 262.262. The 
reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
    b. Eliminating employee personal information in LQG contingency 
plans. As stated above, the condition for exemption for LQGs at Sec.  
262.34(a)(4) references part 265 subpart D, which includes a list of 
what the contingency plan must contain. The Agency is also proposing to 
modify the language currently at Sec.  265.52(d) when it is copied into 
part 262 to now allow an LQG the flexibility to eliminate unnecessary 
employee personal information that is currently required in the 
contingency plan. This would protect those individuals' privacy, but 
still provide necessary information to address emergencies. Section 
265.52(d) currently states that the plan must list names, addresses, 
and phone numbers (office and home) of all persons qualified to act as 
emergency coordinator (see Sec.  265.55), and requires that this list 
be kept up to date. It specifies that where more than one person is 
listed, one must be named as primary emergency coordinator and others 
must be listed in the order in which they will assume responsibility as 
alternates. The proposed revision would remove the unnecessary 
references to addresses in this language and change the reference to 
home and office telephone numbers to ``emergency telephone number.''
    Also as part of this revision, the Agency is proposing revisions to 
address situations where the facility has an emergency coordinator on 
duty 24 hours every day of the week. In those situations, the plan may 
list the staffed position (e.g., operations manager, shift coordinator, 
shift operations supervisor), as well as an emergency telephone number 
that can be guaranteed to be answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 
365 days a year. The EPA proposes to add language stating that in 
situations where the generator site has an emergency coordinator 
continuously on duty because it operates 24 hours per day, every day of 
the year, the plan may list the staffed position (e.g., operations 
manager, shift coordinator, shift operations supervisor,

[[Page 57961]]

or some other similar position) as well as an emergency telephone 
number that can be guaranteed to be answered at all times.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed modification.
    Effect of Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by the 
proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in the 
new part 262 subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  262.261(d). The reorganization 
is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
    c. Request for comment to include alternative evacuation routes in 
contingency plan (40 CFR 265.52(f)). The Agency also requests comment 
on modifying the condition on alternative evacuation routes in a 
contingency plan, currently found at Sec.  265.52(f). This paragraph 
currently states that the plan must include an evacuation plan for 
facility personnel where there is a possibility that evacuation could 
be necessary and that this plan must describe signal(s) to be used to 
begin evacuation, evacuation routes, and alternate evacuation routes 
(in cases where the primary routes could be blocked by releases of 
hazardous waste or fires).
    At issue is whether a contingency plan must contain information 
about alternative evacuation routes or whether a different approach for 
addressing alternative evacuation routes would be more effective. As 
part of the 2004 Program Evaluation of the hazardous waste generator 
regulatory program, the Agency received a comment stating that it does 
not make sense to include in the contingency plan the hundreds of 
possible evacuation routes that may be present at a facility depending 
on its configuration. The commenter argued that the regulation should 
be modified to require that evacuation routes be posted and drills be 
conducted but that the regulations should not require the routes to be 
in the contingency plan.\90\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \90\ Summary of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulatory Program 
Evaluation, November 2004. See also public comments in Docket ID No. 
RCRA-2003-0014.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency does not believe the current regulation requires all 
potential evacuation routes be identified and believes emergency 
responders may need this type of information in order to determine the 
most efficient and timely approach to reach the facility, which raises 
the question of whether the regulation should be modified in this way. 
However, the Agency seeks comment on whether the commenter's proposal 
to require the posting of evacuation routes and holding annual 
evacuation training and drills would be an effective substitute to 
maintaining alternative evacuation routes in the contingency plan. The 
Agency also seeks comment on whether this paragraph of the regulations 
should discuss shelter-in-place as part of contingency plans.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. Under the reorganization, the proposed 
regulation would appear in the new part 262 subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  
262.261(f). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.
    d. Request for comment on the usefulness of a potential electronic 
RCRA contingency planning application.
    The Agency requests comment on whether contingency plans should be 
submitted electronically to emergency responders to enhance their 
ability to respond safely and effectively to an emergency at an LQG and 
what EPA's role should be in electronic submittals. Currently EPA makes 
numerous electronic databases and tools available for helping first 
responders with emergency management. These tools include CAMEO 
(Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations), which assists with 
data management requirements under EPCRA, such as the required annual 
submittal of an Emergency Hazardous Chemical Inventory Form to the 
LEPC. EPA is taking comment on whether an additional tool to manage 
contingency plans under RCRA would be a useful addition to this 
software suite and whether it would assist LEPCs by integrating the 
contingency plan with their existing data on facilities, making the 
information available to the first responders in the most usable way.
    Specifically, we request comment on the feasibility and 
effectiveness of private sector parties or non-profit or governmental 
entities developing software that LQGs could use to provide important 
information to emergency responders in responding to an emergency. 
Building on the concept of a standard list of information to be 
included in a contingency plan executive summary that was discussed 
above, private sector or non-profit parties could design electronic 
software to identify the appropriate information emergency responders 
quickly need to assess an emergency. In turn, LQGs would then input 
that information into the application and provide that information to 
their local LEPC or emergency response organization for use should an 
emergency arise. The objective would be to allow emergency responders 
to more quickly and effectively analyze and respond to emergencies 
rather than having to review a lengthy document.
4. Technical Changes Applicable to Both SQGs and LQGs
    The Agency is proposing two additional clarifications and 
modifications to the existing preparedness, prevention, and emergency 
procedures regulations for SQGs and LQGs and is taking comment on one 
more.
    The Agency is proposing revisions based on 30 years of experience 
with these rules, feedback from stakeholders as part of the Agency's 
2004 Program Evaluation of the hazardous waste generator regulatory 
program and discussions and communication with stakeholders. EPA 
believes these clarifications will foster improved compliance without 
adversely affecting the protection of human health and the environment.
    a. Proposed technical changes to introductory paragraph on required 
equipment. Sections 262.34(a)(4) and (d)(4) include the condition that 
LQGs and SQGs comply with part 265 subpart C, which includes Sec.  
265.32. Section 265.32 requires that all facilities must be equipped 
with certain types of equipment unless none of the hazards posed by 
waste handled at the facility could require that particular kind of 
equipment. The paragraph goes on to list required equipment such as an 
internal communications system, a telephone or radio, fire 
extinguishers, and access to adequate water. The existing regulation is 
not clear as to whether the required equipment must be placed in those 
areas of operation where hazardous waste is generated and accumulated, 
(or treated, stored and disposed in the case of an interim status TSDF) 
or whether other parts of the facility could store this equipment--that 
is, where hazardous waste is not generated or accumulated.
    The Agency believes it may not always be appropriate or safe to 
have this equipment stored in the actual waste generation or 
accumulation area and instead, we are proposing that the regulation 
state that the hazardous waste generator should have this equipment 
located where it can be immediately accessed without jeopardizing a 
timely and effective response to any emergency. For example, the waste 
generation area may be in an enclosed room. Should a fire occur in the 
enclosed room, it might be more appropriate to exit the room and call 
the fire department rather than stay inside and be exposed to smoke 
inhalation and other risks. EPA believes

[[Page 57962]]

the existing regulatory text should be revised to explain that while 
this equipment applies to only those areas applicable to the generation 
and accumulation (and treatment, as appropriate) of hazardous waste, 
the generator has the flexibility to store this equipment in other 
areas of the facility to address those situations where it is 
infeasible or inappropriate for safety reasons to have the equipment 
immediately next to hazardous waste generation and accumulation areas.
    Therefore, EPA is proposing to modify the introductory paragraph to 
provide generators subject to subpart C of part 265 the flexibility to 
determine the most appropriate locations within the facility to locate 
equipment necessary to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
    The proposed regulation would state that all areas where hazardous 
waste is either generated or accumulated must be equipped with the 
listed types of equipment (unless none of the hazards posed by waste 
handled at the site could require a particular kind of equipment or the 
actual waste generation or accumulation area does not lend itself for 
safety reasons to have a particular kind of equipment). It would also 
state that a generator may determine the most appropriate locations 
within its generator site to locate equipment necessary to prepare for 
and respond to emergencies.
    The Agency requests comment on its proposal to modify Sec.  265.32.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in 
the SQG standards at Sec.  262.16(b)(8)(ii) with some changes to make 
it specific to SQGs and in the new part 262 subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  
262.252. The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.
    b. The meaning of ``immediate access.'' Sections 262.34(a)(4) and 
(d)(4) include the condition that LQGs and SQGs comply with part 265 
subpart C, which also includes Sec.  265.34. Section 265.34(a) states 
that whenever hazardous waste is being poured, mixed, spread, or 
otherwise handled, all personnel involved in the operation must have 
immediate access to an internal alarm or emergency communication 
device, either directly or through visual or voice contact with another 
employee, unless such a device is not required under Sec.  265.32. At 
issue is whether the phrase ``immediate access'' is clearly understood 
or whether additional clarity is necessary. As part of the Agency's 
2004 Program Evaluation of the hazardous waste generator program, 
stakeholders raised a concern about whether the regulated community has 
a sufficient understanding about what this phrase means and we are 
proposing to address that concern here.
    In the interest of clarity, the Agency is proposing to modify this 
language to read, ``immediate access (e.g., direct or unimpeded 
access).'' The Agency believes that adding this parenthetical example 
provides further guidance on the meaning of ``immediate access.'' This 
phrase is used again in the next paragraph in a similar context and EPA 
is proposing to add the words ``(direct or unimpeded access)'' in that 
case as well.
    The Agency requests comment on the usefulness of modifying this 
language.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The proposed regulation would appear in 
the SQG standards at Sec.  262.16(b)(8)(iv) and in the new part 262 
subpart M for LQGs at Sec.  262.254. The reorganization is discussed in 
section XIII of this preamble.
5. Technical Changes Applicable to SQGs
    Current preparedness and prevention standards for SQGs are found at 
Sec.  262.34(d)(5). SQGs must comply with the following:
     Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(i)--have at least one employee either 
on the premises or on call with the responsibility for coordinating all 
emergency response measures (e.g., the emergency coordinator);
     Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(ii)--post specified information next to 
the telephone, including the name and telephone number of the emergency 
coordinator; the location of fire extinguishers and spill control 
material, and, if present, fire alarm; and the telephone number of the 
fire department, unless the facility has a direct alarm;
     Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(iii)-- ensure that all employees are 
thoroughly familiar with proper waste handling and emergency 
procedures, relevant to their responsibilities during normal facility 
operations and emergencies; and
     Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(iv)-- have the emergency coordinator or 
his designee follow the specified procedures in the event of a fire, 
spill, or explosion.
    EPA is proposing changes to two of these provisions.
    a. Require certain information be posted ``next to the telephone'' 
(40 CFR 262.34(d)(5)(ii)). The Agency is proposing to revise Sec.  
262.34(d)(5)(ii) in order to facilitate improved compliance on the part 
of SQGs. This language requires, among other items, that certain 
information be posted ``next to the telephone,'' such as the name and 
telephone number of the emergency coordinator and the location of fire 
extinguishers and spill control material. Based on experience and 
feedback received from the regulatory community, the Agency believes it 
is unclear in this description where in the facility this information 
should be posted. A facility may have many operations and components 
that have no relationship with the generation and accumulation of 
hazardous waste.
    Stakeholders have recommended deletion of Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(ii) 
because, in this age of near-universal 911 availability, they state it 
is simply not important from a regulatory point of view to have 
emergency telephone numbers posted. They argue that locations of fire 
extinguishers, spill control material, fire alarms, etc., should be 
conveyed to relevant employees and displayed in a worker break area 
rather than the facility office and that posting the name and telephone 
number of the emergency coordinator is also not necessary. For the 
majority of the SQG universe, the emergency coordinator is the owner or 
shop supervisor.\91\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \91\ Summary of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulatory Program 
Evaluation, November 2004. See also public comments in Docket ID No. 
RCRA-2003-0014.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA disagrees with eliminating this provision because we believe 
that posting this information is important for workers and others to 
have readily available information so that they would know what to do 
and where to go in the case of an emergency. However, the Agency 
believes that the regulation should be modified to state clearly that 
the pertinent information should be posted where hazardous waste is 
generated and accumulated, since facility personnel can quickly seek 
assistance from it there.
    Also unstated is whether the telephone number refers to the 
emergency coordinator's home phone or business phone. Over the years 
the Agency has received requests that we modify this provision to 
ensure that personal information not be used or distributed, 
particularly to individuals or organizations that could use such 
information to cause harm to the individual.\92\ With cell phones and 
other means of instant communication now prevalent, EPA is proposing to 
clarify this provision to provide the hazardous waste generator with 
the necessary flexibility to allow its emergency coordinator to perform 
specified responsibilities effectively

[[Page 57963]]

using the emergency telephone number of the emergency coordinator.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \92\ Letter to Jim O'Leary from Derek Swick, American Petroleum 
Institute, September 28, 2011.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Therefore, EPA is proposing that Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(ii) be modified 
to state that the small quantity generator must post the name and 
emergency telephone number of the emergency coordinator next to 
telephones or in areas directly involved in the generation and 
accumulation of hazardous waste. Section 262.34(d)(5)(ii)(B) and (C) 
are unchanged.
    EPA requests comment on this proposed change.
    Effect of the Reorganization: This section is affected by the 
reorganization and would move to Sec.  262.16(b)(9)(ii)(A). The 
reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
    b. Allow containment and cleanup to be conducted by a contractor 
(40 CFR 262.34(d)(5)(iv)(B)). Section 262.34(d)(5)(iv)(B) currently 
reads, ``In the event of a spill, contain the flow of hazardous waste 
to the extent possible, and as soon as is practicable, clean up the 
hazardous waste and any contaminated materials or soil.'' If such a 
spill were considered an emergency under OSHA's regulations in 29 CFR 
1910.120, an SQG would be required to take a minimum of eight hours of 
initial training with an annual refresher, and in certain circumstances 
additional hours of training. Feedback from stakeholders suggests that 
most SQGs would hire a spill cleanup contractor to provide such 
services, if needed, rather than train employees to perform the 
response. We would agree that allowing an SQG to hire a contractor that 
is trained to address hazardous waste spills would certainly be 
appropriate. However, the regulations in Sec.  262.34(d)(5)(iv)(B) 
arguably do not provide this flexibility.\93\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \93\ Summary of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulatory Program 
Evaluation, November 2004. See also public comments in Docket ID No. 
RCRA-2003-0014.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Therefore, the Agency is proposing to modify Sec.  
262.34(d)(5)(iv)(B) and place the responsibility on the SQG to either 
perform the necessary cleanup of hazardous wastes or contract out the 
cleanup. The proposed language would state that in the event of a 
spill, the small quantity generator is responsible for containing the 
flow of hazardous waste to the extent possible, and as soon as is 
practicable, cleaning up the hazardous waste and any contaminated 
materials or soil. The proposal would allow such containment and 
cleanup to be conducted either by the small quantity generator or by a 
contractor on behalf of the small quantity generator.
    The Agency requests comment on the proposed revision to Sec.  
262.34(d)(5)(iv)(B) and whether any unintended consequences arise from 
providing SQGs with this flexibility.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization and would move to Sec.  
262.16(b)(9)(iv)(B). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.
6. Technical Changes on Personnel Training Applicable to LQGs
    The Agency is proposing to modify the condition regarding personnel 
training for LQGs, currently found at Sec.  262.34(a)(4), which refers 
to Sec.  265.16. The proposed modification would allow a generator to 
use online computer training, in addition to classroom instruction and 
on-the-job training, to complete the personnel training requirements. 
Since the personnel training regulations were promulgated in the 1980s, 
use of computerized training has become a common practice for 
generators to teach their workers about the management of hazardous 
waste. In fact, many generators already use this method for training 
workers and this modification would simply bring the hazardous waste 
personnel training regulations up to date with existing industry 
practices.
    The proposal would modify the first sentence of this provision by 
adding the words ``online training'' and would state that site 
personnel must successfully complete a program of classroom 
instruction, online training, or on-the-job training that teaches them 
to perform their duties in a way that ensures compliance with this 
part.
    The Agency requests comment on the proposed modification.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section would be 
affected by the proposed reorganization. Under the reorganization this 
provision would be found at Sec.  262.17(a)(7)(i)(A). The proposed 
reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.
7. Taking Comment on Applicability of Personnel Training
    The Agency seeks comment on clarifying what positions within an LQG 
must be responsible for receiving training associated with the 
management of hazardous waste, as well as identifying those positions 
for which a written job description is necessary. Under the current 
regulations, LQGs are responsible for complying with Sec.  
262.34(a)(4), which references, among other technical requirements, the 
personnel training provisions in Sec.  265.16. Under the proposed 
reorganization discussed in section XIII, this condition for LQGs would 
move into 40 CFR 262.17.
    The current regulations are not specific about which personnel at 
an LQG must complete the hazardous waste training. Other than stating 
that under Sec.  265.16(a)(3) personnel must be able to respond 
effectively to emergencies by familiarizing them with emergency 
procedures, emergency equipment, and emergency systems, no other areas 
of hazardous waste management are cited.
    At issue is the scope of these training standards and the 
applicability of the training provision to employees that are not 
assigned to work in the 90-day accumulation areas. The Agency is 
considering whether to require training and a written job description 
for specific types of employees working in areas of hazardous waste 
management related to 90-day accumulation areas. This clarification 
would have the benefit of assisting LQGs in determining more readily 
the scope of their hazardous waste training program.
    The Agency, with the assistance of staff from the states of 
Vermont, Connecticut and New York,\94\ have identified the following 
areas of hazardous waste management for which personnel training and a 
written job description should be required: Anyone who (1) completes 
and/or signs the hazardous waste manifest, (2) manages hazardous waste 
in areas where hazardous wastes are accumulated, (3) maintains 
hazardous waste inventory, (4) conducts daily or weekly inspections of 
areas where hazardous wastes are accumulated, and (5) plans or responds 
to emergencies that involve hazardous wastes.
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    \94\ Correspondence between Steve Simoes, State of Vermont, with 
Ross Bunnell and Bill Yeman, from Connecticut and New York, 
respectively, a copy of which is found in the docket to this 
proposal.
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    The Agency seeks comment on whether the regulations should 
specifically identify positions at LQGs where hazardous waste training 
would be required and for which a written job description is necessary 
and what those areas should be. In addition, the Agency seeks comment 
on whether personnel involved in handling or managing hazardous wastes 
in SAAs should be required to undergo hazardous waste training. Current 
Agency guidance excludes staff working in satellite accumulation areas 
from the training requirements.\95\ The Agency is of the

[[Page 57964]]

opinion that such personnel have a similar need to know the risks 
associated with hazardous wastes as personnel working in central 
accumulation areas.
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    \95\ Memorandum from Robert Springer, Director of the Office of 
Solid Waste to RCRA Directors, EPA Regions 1-10, ``Frequently Asked 
Questions about Satellite Accumulation Areas,'' March 17, 2004, RCRA 
Online 14703 http://yosemite.epa.gov/osw/rcra.nsf/0c994248c239947e85256d090071175f/0ac9e15424b2897d8525770600609793!OpenDocument.
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8. Taking Comment on Applying Emergency Planning and Procedures 
Revisions to Parts 264 and 265
    The proposed revisions discussed throughout this section of the 
preamble on the emergency planning and procedure regulations would only 
pertain to generators, as the proposed language would be found in the 
expanded generator regulations in part 262. However because many of the 
preparedness and emergency procedure provisions discussed in this 
section are taken from part 265 with only slight revisions, we are 
taking comment on whether these same proposed revisions should also be 
made in the applicable paragraphs of parts 264 and/or 265 as well to 
ensure consistency between the generator regulations and those for 
permitted facilities or facilities operating under interim status. The 
Agency requests comment on whether these revisions for consistency 
would be helpful and appropriate for facilities operating under part 
264 or part 265 or whether the regulations should remain unchanged 
despite the result that generators and TSDFs would be left with some 
regulations that are very similar but not exactly the same.

I. Revisions to Satellite Accumulation Area Regulations for SQGs and 
LQGs (40 CFR 262.34(c))

    The Agency is proposing a number of changes that would revise and 
strengthen the conditions for exemption for satellite accumulation 
areas (SAA) at Sec.  262.34(c). These include (1) requiring SQGs and 
LQGs accumulating hazardous waste in SAAs to comply with the special 
requirements for incompatible wastes found at Sec.  265.177; (2) 
providing limited exceptions to the regulation requiring generators to 
keep containers closed at all times; (3) strengthening the marking and 
labeling standards for SAAs (note these marking and labeling changes 
are the same as those proposed for containers in central accumulation 
areas); (4) confirming that three days means three consecutive calendar 
days, not business days; (5) providing a maximum weight for the 
accumulation of acute hazardous waste in SAAs in addition to a volume; 
(6) rewording the regulations for when the maximum volume or weight is 
exceeded in an SAA; (7) rescinding a guidance memo regarding the 
accumulation of reactive (D003) hazardous waste away from the point of 
generation; and (8) providing examples in the preamble to help 
generators better understand the term ``under the control of the 
operator,'' which is used in the SAA regulations.
    In addition to these proposed changes, the SAA regulations would be 
moved as part of the proposed reorganization. These regulations would 
all be found together in Sec.  262.15. The reorganization is discussed 
in section XIII of this preamble.
    Using an SAA is not required of hazardous waste generators, but the 
regulations allowing them and setting the conditions for their use are 
designed to assist generators who generate and accumulate small amounts 
of hazardous waste in different parts of their facilities. SQGs and 
LQGs, however, may choose to accumulate hazardous waste only in central 
accumulation areas (CAAs) rather than SAAs or they may accumulate up to 
55 gallons of non-acute hazardous waste and/or one quart of acute 
hazardous waste within each facility's SAAs and once that threshold has 
occurred, ship the hazardous waste to a designated facility. A 
generator may also accumulate hazardous waste within an SAA(s) and 
never move the waste to a CAA once the 55 gallons limit is reached, but 
instead, ship the waste directly to a RCRA designated facility.
1. Requiring SQGs and LQGs to Comply with the Special Requirements for 
Incompatible Wastes for Containers Accumulating Hazardous Wastes in 
SAAs
    Under the current regulations in Sec.  262.34(c)(1)(i), generators 
accumulating hazardous waste in SAAs must meet the conditions for 
exemption, including complying with the container requirements at 
Sec. Sec.  265.171, 265.172, and 265.173(a). These container 
requirements include accumulating hazardous waste in containers of good 
condition, ensuring the waste is compatible with, or will not react 
with, the contents of the container, and ensuring that the container 
accumulating hazardous waste is closed, except when it is necessary to 
add or remove waste. We are proposing to modify this part of the SAA 
container management standards by requiring that hazardous wastes not 
be mixed or be placed in the same container with other hazardous waste 
that are incompatible and could potentially result in fires, 
explosions, gaseous emissions, leaching, or other discharge of 
hazardous waste or hazardous waste constituents.\96\
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    \96\ See Comment in Sec.  265.177.
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    The Agency believes that in developing the regulations for SAAs, it 
inadvertently failed to account for the potential for accumulating 
incompatible wastes, especially since the current regulations already 
prohibit placing hazardous waste in containers that it may react with 
and that impair the containers ability to contain the hazardous waste. 
Therefore, the Agency is proposing that SQGs and LQGs accumulating 
hazardous waste in SAAs also comply with the part 265 subpart I 
container management standards for incompatible hazardous wastes at 
Sec.  265.177. The Agency believes most generators already are aware of 
and comply with this best management practice at their SAAs since they 
must comply with this regulation when they move the SAA container(s) 
into a 90-day or 180-day central accumulation area.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed modification.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(1)(iii). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.
2. Limited Exceptions to Keeping Containers Closed at all Times in SAAs
    As noted in the previous section, the current regulation in Sec.  
262.34(c)(1)(i) for generators accumulating hazardous waste in SAAs 
requires containers accumulating hazardous waste to be kept closed, 
except when it is necessary to add or remove waste. The SAA regulations 
reference the requirement in Sec.  265.173(a) that containers be closed 
while accumulating hazardous wastes at interim status treatment, 
storage and disposal facilities. We are proposing to modify this 
provision from Sec.  262.34(c)(1)(i) in the new section for SAA 
conditions at Sec.  262.15, but only as it pertains to SAAs; it will 
not affect the requirements for container management at interim status 
treatment, storage and disposal facilities. Because this modification 
is only meant to apply to containers accumulating hazardous waste in 
SAAs, and not to containers being stored at interim status treatment, 
storage, or disposal facilities, we are proposing to modify this 
requirement by eliminating the reference in the SAA regulations in part 
262 to the container management standards for interim status treatment, 
storage or disposal facilities at Sec.  265.173(a) and

[[Page 57965]]

incorporating the closed container provision directly into the SAA 
regulations in Sec.  262.15, under the proposed reorganization.
    Specifically, we are proposing to modify the standard in order to 
allow containers of hazardous waste in SAAs to remain open under 
limited circumstances. Specifically, we are proposing that containers 
of hazardous waste in SAAs may be open when it is necessary either for 
the operation of equipment to which the SAA container is attached or to 
prevent dangerous situations, such as the build-up of extreme pressure 
or heat because closing a container can be more dangerous than keeping 
it open temporarily in those situations. Stakeholders have identified 
situations where keeping SAA containers closed can interfere with the 
operation of equipment when the container is attached directly to the 
equipment via piping or tubing. Stakeholders have also identified 
situations in which closing a container can be more dangerous than 
keeping it open temporarily; for example, when the hazardous waste is 
very hot.
    Therefore, EPA is proposing to modify the regulations to allow 
containers to be vented in such situations. However, we are also 
proposing that when the danger passes (e.g., the contents cool), then 
the requirement to keep the container closed applies and when the 
equipment is not in operation, the requirement to keep the container 
closed applies.
    As noted above, the flexibility proposed for containers to remain 
open in specific situations applies only to containers in SAAs since 
that is where hazardous waste initially accumulates. The Agency does 
not anticipate that it is necessary to extend this flexibility to 
containers of hazardous waste in central accumulation areas.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed modification.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(1)(iv). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.
3. Strengthening the Marking and Labeling Provisions for Containers in 
SAAs
    Currently, the regulations for SAAs in Sec.  262.34(c)(1)(ii) 
require a generator to mark ``his containers either with the words 
`Hazardous Waste' or with other words that identify the contents of the 
containers'' [emphasis added]. The Agency is proposing two 
modifications that would strengthen the labeling and marking 
regulations for containers accumulating hazardous waste in SAAs. First, 
EPA is proposing to change the ``or'' to an ``and'' and thus require 
that generators mark containers in the SAA with both the words 
``Hazardous Waste'' and other words to identify the contents of the 
container that are accumulated in SAAs.
    Second, EPA is proposing that generators also indicate the hazards 
of the contents of the containers. EPA believes these proposed changes 
will alert workers, emergency responders, and others to the potential 
hazards posed by its contents. Identifying the hazard increases 
awareness to workers and others who might come into contact with the 
hazardous waste container and reduces potential risks to human health 
and the environment from container mismanagement. As discussed 
previously in section VIII.E, these changes are similar to those 
proposed for containers stored in central accumulation areas.
    Specifically, EPA is proposing to modify the marking and labeling 
regulations for SAAs to require LQGs and SQGs to mark containers with 
the following: (1) The words ``Hazardous Waste''; (2) other words that 
identify the contents of the containers. Examples may include, but are 
not limited to the name of the chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or 
``methylene dichloride,'' or the type or class of chemical, such as 
``organic solvents'' or ``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as 
applicable, the proper shipping name and technical name markings used 
to comply with DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D; and (3) 
an indication of the hazards of the contents of the container. Examples 
of hazards include, but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous 
waste characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); 
a hazard class label consistent with the DOT requirements at 49 CFR 172 
part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label consistent with the OSHA Hazard 
Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard label 
consistent with the NFPA code 704; or a hazard pictogram consistent 
with the United Nations' GHS. Generators also may use any other marking 
and labeling commonly used nationwide in commerce that would alert 
workers and emergency responders to the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the containers.
    The pre-transport requirements of part 262 subpart C already 
require hazardous waste generators to comply with the DOT labeling/
marking requirements of 49 CFR part 172. By requiring generators to 
include other words that identify the contents of the containers, the 
Agency is proposing that generators perform a task that is already 
required when preparing the container prior to transporting the 
hazardous waste off site for subsequent waste management. In addition, 
the Agency is proposing to modify the marking and labeling of 
containers prior to shipping the hazardous waste. We are proposing that 
SQGs and LQGs can use the DOT hazard class labels to comply with the 
new labeling and marking regulation for containers in SAA. 
Alternatively, they may choose another method to indicate the hazards 
of the container that suits them better, as noted above.
    The Agency requests comment on these proposed changes.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(1)(v). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.
4. Clarify What Is Meant by ``Three Days''
    The current regulations at Sec.  262.34(c)(2) state that a 
generator who accumulates either hazardous waste or acutely hazardous 
waste must, with respect to that amount of excess waste, comply 
``within three days'' with paragraph (a) of that section or other 
applicable provisions of the chapter. The Agency is proposing to state 
in the regulations that the term ``three days'' means three consecutive 
calendar days, not three business days or three working days. The 
Agency has already clarified this term in a memo, which was based on 
preamble discussions from the proposed and final SAA 
regulations.97 98 As stated in the memo, ``Originally, the 
Agency had proposed to use 72 hours as the time limit but realized that 
determining when 72 hours had elapsed would have required placing both 
the date and time of day on containers. In the final rule the Agency 
switched to using three days so that generators only need to date 
containers that hold the excess of 55 gallons of non-acute hazardous 
waste (or 1 quart of acute hazardous waste).''
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    \97\ Memorandum from Robert Springer, Director of EPA's Office 
of Solid Waste, to RCRA Regional Directors, ``Frequently Asked 
Questions About Satellite Accumulation Areas,'' March 17, 2004, RCRA 
Online 14703.
    \98\ Proposed rule: January 3, 1983 48 FR 118; Final rule: 
December 20, 1984; 49 FR 49569.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency requests comment on this codification of an existing 
interpretation.

[[Page 57966]]

    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(2)(i). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of 
this preamble.
5. Providing a Maximum Weight for the Accumulation of Acute Hazardous 
Waste in Containers at SAAs
    Currently, the regulations at Sec.  262.34(c)(1) impose maximum 
volumes of hazardous waste that may be accumulated in an SAA without 
requiring a permit, complying with interim status standards, or 
complying with the generator accumulation standards. For non-acute 
hazardous waste, the maximum volume is 55 gallons. For acute hazardous 
waste, the maximum volume is 1 quart. When the SAA regulations were 
finalized, EPA explained that 55 gallons was selected for non-acute 
hazardous waste in part because it is the size of the most commonly 
used accumulation container.\99\ EPA also explained that 1 quart was 
chosen for acute hazardous waste because it is the volumetric 
equivalent to 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste used elsewhere in the 
regulations and commenters expressed opposition to using a weight 
measure. Since then, however, stakeholders have indicated that the 1-
quart volume maximum is not a practical way to measure the accumulation 
of some wastes, particularly non-liquid acute hazardous wastes. 
Therefore, we are proposing to add a weight measurement to the SAA 
regulations for the maximum accumulation of acute hazardous wastes. 
Specifically, we are proposing that 1 quart or 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) 
of acute hazardous waste may be accumulated in an SAA. Generators that 
accumulate acute hazardous waste in SAAs will have the choice of 
whether to use 1 quart or 1 kilogram, but they will be required to 
identify which metric they choose to use.
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    \99\ December 20, 1984; 49 FR 49569-70.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We are not proposing to add a similar weight equivalent to the 55-
gallon threshold for non-acute hazardous waste since stakeholders have 
not expressed a similar need. However, we request comment on whether it 
would be useful to have a maximum weight for the accumulation of non-
acute hazardous waste in SAAs.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(1). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.
6. Modifying the Language for When the Maximum Volume or Weight Is 
Exceeded in an SAA
    Currently, the regulation at Sec.  262.34(c)(2) states that when 
the maximum volumes are exceeded in an SAA, a generator ``must, with 
respect to that amount of excess waste, comply within three days with 
paragraph (a) of this section or other applicable provisions of this 
chapter.'' The Agency is rewording this regulation in order to more 
clearly state the generator's options for managing the materials that 
exceed the limit. The proposed regulatory text states that a generator 
who accumulates either non-acute hazardous waste or acute hazardous 
waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) in excess of the 
amounts listed in paragraph (a)(1) of this section at or near any point 
of generation must remove the excess from the satellite accumulation 
area within three calendar days either to a central accumulation area, 
an on-site interim status or permitted treatment, storage, or disposal 
facility, or an off-site designated facility. Similarly, during the 
three-calendar-day period the generator must continue to comply with 
paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section and must mark the 
container(s) holding the excess accumulation of hazardous waste with 
the date the excess amount began accumulating.
    The Agency does not view this as a substantive change to the SAA 
regulations. Nevertheless, the Agency solicits comments on this 
proposed change.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. The SAA regulations are currently at Sec.  
262.34(c). We are proposing to move this provision to Sec.  
262.15(a)(6). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.
7. Rescinding a Memo Regarding Accumulating Reactive Hazardous Waste 
Away From the Point of Generation
    In a memo dated January 13, 1988, EPA wrote that a storage shed 
that is outside of a building where a reactive hazardous waste (D003) 
is initially generated, could be considered an SAA.\100\ EPA is 
proposing to revoke this interpretation. EPA acknowledges that in some 
instances it is safer to accumulate hazardous waste away from the 
initial point of generation, such as with hazardous wastes that are 
explosive. However, because SAAs are subject to less stringent 
conditions than CAAs, EPA believes it is not appropriate for such 
dangerous hazardous wastes to be stored in SAAs. Rather, EPA believes 
that if a generator accumulates hazardous waste that is so dangerous it 
needs to be accumulated away from the point of generation, it should be 
accumulated under the more rigorous accumulation standards for central 
accumulation areas.
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    \100\ Letter from Marcia E. Williams, Director of EPA's Office 
of Solid Waste, to Michael E. Young, Atlantic Research Corporation, 
January 13, 1988, RCRA Online 11317.
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    The Agency requests comment on proposing to revoke this 
interpretation of the SAA regulations.
8. Examples of the Meaning of ``Under the Control of the Operator''
    The SAA regulation at Sec.  262.34(c)(1) uses the term ``under the 
control of the operator.'' EPA has not defined this term in the 
regulations, nor have we discussed it in preamble or guidance letters. 
However, over the years, the Agency has received inquiries about what 
constitutes ``under the control of the operator.'' In an effort to 
assist generators to better understand this term and to foster improved 
compliance with the SAA provisions, the Agency is providing examples in 
this preamble of what constitutes ``under the control of the 
operator.'' For example, EPA would consider waste to be ``under the 
control of the operator'' if the operator controlled access to an area, 
building, or room that the SAA is in, such as with entry by access 
card, key or lock box. Another example would be if the operator 
accumulates waste in a locked cabinet and controlled access to the key, 
even if the cabinet is stored inside a room to which access is not 
controlled.
    The Agency requests comment on additional practices that would 
constitute ``under the control of the operator.''

J. SQGs Accumulating Hazardous Waste on Drip Pads and in Containment 
Buildings (40 CFR 262.34(d))

    EPA is proposing to modify the regulations at Sec.  262.34(d) to 
require SQGs that accumulate hazardous waste for 90 days or less on 
drip pads without a permit or interim status to comply with the 
technical standards of 40 CFR part 265 subpart W and with all other 
conditions for an exemption associated with the accumulation of 
hazardous waste by an SQG.
    Additionally, EPA is proposing to modify the conditions for an 
exemption currently at Sec.  262.34(d) to require SQGs that accumulate 
hazardous waste for 90 days or less in a containment building

[[Page 57967]]

without a permit or interim status to comply with the technical 
standards of 40 CFR part 265 subpart DD and with all other conditions 
for exemption associated with the accumulation of hazardous waste by an 
SQG.
1. Accumulation of Hazardous Waste on Drip Pads
    On December 30, 1988, EPA issued a proposed rule listing three 
additional hazardous wastes from wood preserving operations that use 
chlorophenolic, creosote, and/or inorganic (arsenic and chromium) 
preservatives, and listing one hazardous waste from surface protection 
processes that use chlorophenolics (53 FR 53282). As part of this rule, 
the Agency proposed additional standards ``applicable to drip pads in 
treated wood storage yards and in kick back areas used in managing 
hazardous wastes at wood preserving and surface protection facilities. 
These standards are intended to provide for proper handling of treated 
wood drippage'' (53 FR 53308).
    In terms of the types of RCRA facilities this regulation would 
apply to, the proposed rule identified and discussed the regulatory 
requirements for two groups: Hazardous waste TSDFs subject to the part 
264 permitting standards and LQGs subject to the part 265 interim 
status drip pad standards. More specifically, the preamble stated that 
``in the event that drippage is collected and is moved from the drip 
pad within 90 days following generation, generators may avail 
themselves of the 90-day accumulation standards of 40 CFR 262.34, and 
would not need Part B permits for their drip pads or tanks (consistent 
with Sec.  264.1(g)(3), 265.1(c)(7), and 270.1(c)(2)(i)) provided that 
they comply with the Part 265 standards, as required by 40 CFR 262.34'' 
(53 FR 53309).
    When EPA promulgated the final rule for these hazardous wastes (55 
FR 50450, December 6, 1990), the discussion addressed the same universe 
of facilities (i.e., hazardous waste TSDFs subject to the part 264 
permitting standards and LQGs subject to the part 265 interim status 
drip pad standards).
    Pursuant to Sec.  262.34(a), LQGs may accumulate the hazardous 
waste they generate without having to obtain a RCRA permit provided 
they comply with several specified conditions, including the technical 
standards for containers, tanks, drip pads, or containment buildings 
found at part 265 subparts I, J, W, and DD, respectively. Similarly, 
pursuant to Sec.  262.34(d), SQGs may accumulate the hazardous waste 
they generate without having to obtain a permit, provided they comply 
with several specified conditions, including the technical standards 
for containers and tanks found at part 265 subparts I and J, 
respectively. Although there is no explicit condition for SQGs 
accumulating and managing their hazardous waste on drip pads, EPA 
intended SQGs accumulating hazardous wastes on drip pads either to 
comply with all of the conditions for exemption, as well as any 
associated independent requirements for LQGs at part 265 subpart W, or 
else obtain a Part B permit for their drip pads (consistent with 
Sec. Sec.  264.1(g)(3), 265.1(c)(7), and 270.1(c)(2)(i)).
    EPA has consistently interpreted this regulatory requirement to 
apply to SQGs. For example, as stated in the wood preserving technical 
guidance document issued by EPA in 1996, a copy of which is found in 
the docket, ``this 90-day limit applies to both large quantity and 
small quantity generators. While small quantity generators may normally 
accumulate hazardous waste in accumulation units for up to 180 days, 
this is not the case for small quantity generators accumulating waste 
on Subpart W drip pads. Owners/operators of wood preserving facilities 
who generate between 100-1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per 
calendar month and who accumulate the waste on drip pads are not 
eligible for the reduced standards normally provided for small quantity 
generators. Instead, these generators must comply with all the 
management conditions for large quantity generators accumulating 
hazardous waste on drip pads.'' \101\
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    \101\ ``Wood Preserving Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 
Compliance Guide--A Guide to Federal Environmental Regulation,'' 
U.S. EPA, EPA-305-B-96-001, June 1996, Section 5-8.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Similarly, the RCRA training module for drip pads, a copy of which 
is found in the docket to this proposal, reinforced this principle by 
stating the following: ``Under Sec.  262.34(d), small quantity 
generators (SQGs) are subject to a reduced set of requirements when 
accumulating hazardous wastes in tanks or containers meeting the 
interim status unit standards. SQGs who accumulate wood-preserving 
wastes on drip pads do not qualify for this partial exemption. 
Consequently, all generators of more than 100 kilograms of waste per 
month who manage wood-preserving wastes on drip pads must comply with 
the requirements applicable to LQGs in Sec.  262.34(a). As a result, 
the maximum generator accumulation time period on drip pads is 90 
days.'' \102\
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    \102\ ``Introduction to Drip Pads (40 CFR parts 264 and 265, 
subpart W),'' RCRA, Superfund & EPCRA Call Center Training Module, 
U.S. EPA, EPA530-K-02-008I, October 2001, page 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    At the end of the same paragraph, the document states, ``Generators 
using drip pads must also comply with the requirements that apply to 
large quantity generators for personnel training, development of a full 
contingency plan, and biennial reporting,'' suggesting that SQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste on drip pads must comply with all of the 
conditions and independent requirements for LQGs, and not just the 
accumulation time limits.
    Because of this statement, the Agency believes that confusion may 
potentially exist about the applicability of the regulations. As stated 
above, if an SQG accumulates hazardous waste in containers, it can 
comply with a reduced set of regulations, including accumulation of 
hazardous waste for up to 180 days, whereas if the SQG accumulates 
hazardous waste on drip pads, it must comply with the regulations for 
LQGs. The Agency believes a more effective and efficient approach is to 
require SQGs accumulating hazardous waste on drip pads to comply with 
the technical standards of part 265 subpart W, including compliance 
with the LQG 90-day accumulation limit (as opposed to the SQG 180-day 
accumulation limit), but to otherwise comply with less stringent 
conditions for SQGs found at 40 CFR 262.34(d). EPA notes that hazardous 
waste that is generated elsewhere at the wood preserving facility and 
accumulated in tanks or containers (i.e., not accumulated on drip pads) 
will remain subject to the SQG accumulation limits. Only waste that is 
accumulated on drip pads must comply with the LQG accumulation 
limits.\103\
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    \103\ ``Wood Preserving Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 
Compliance Guide--A Guide to Federal Environmental Regulation,'' 
U.S. EPA, EPA-305-B-96-001, June 1996, Section 5-8.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Because both the monthly generation quantities (e.g., greater than 
100 kg and less than 1,000 kg) and accumulation total (e.g., not to 
exceed 6,000 kg at any one time) for SQGs are significantly less than 
the generation and accumulation quantities for LQGs, the Agency 
believes that SQGs complying with the less stringent conditions at 
Sec.  262.34(d) (e.g., personnel training, contingency plan) will be 
protective of human health and the environment. Other than complying 
with the management standards at 40 CFR part 265 subpart W, the Agency 
sees no difference in the risks associated with hazardous wastes 
accumulated in tanks or containers. Therefore, EPA is proposing to 
modify the SQG regulations to require SQGs who

[[Page 57968]]

accumulate hazardous waste on drip pads to comply with the technical 
standards of 40 CFR part 265 subpart W, with the 90-day accumulation 
limit for that hazardous waste, and with all of the other hazardous 
waste accumulation standards for an SQG currently found at Sec.  
262.34(d).
    Situations may also occur where an SQG initially accumulates 
hazardous waste on a drip pad but subsequently transfers this waste to 
a container or tank for subsequent management. Similarly, the opposite 
situation may occur where hazardous wastes are generated and first 
accumulated by an SQG in a tank or in containers and then transferred 
to a drip pad. The Agency is proposing that the SQG have up to a total 
of 180 days to accumulate the hazardous wastes, which includes both the 
time the waste is on a drip pad and when it is in a tank or container, 
but that the total amount of time to accumulate the hazardous waste on 
the drip pad must not exceed 90 days. For example, if an SQG 
accumulates hazardous wastes on a drip pad for 80 days prior to 
transferring its waste to a tank, the SQG would be able to accumulate 
waste up to 100 days in the tank before it would be required to send it 
off-site for subsequent waste management, or conversely, treat and 
dispose of the waste on-site in compliance with all applicable RCRA 
regulations under parts 262 through 268 and 270.
    In the case of an SQG first accumulating a hazardous waste in a 
tank or container and then transferring the waste to a drip pad, the 
generator would still have up to a total of 180 days, depending on the 
circumstances, to send the waste off-site for subsequent waste 
management, or conversely, treat and dispose of the waste on-site in 
compliance with all applicable RCRA regulations under parts 262 through 
268 and 270. However, under the proposal, the amount of time allowed 
for the SQG to accumulate the hazardous waste on a drip pad may not 
exceed 90 days. For example, if an SQG first accumulated hazardous 
wastes in a tank or container for 100 days and then transferred the 
waste to a drip pad, the SQG would be able to accumulate up to 80 days 
more (for a total of 180 days) to accumulate the waste on the drip pad 
before the generator would be required to send the waste off-site for 
subsequent waste management, or conversely, treat and dispose of the 
waste on-site in compliance with all applicable RCRA regulations under 
parts 262 through 268 and 270.
    However, if an SQG first accumulated hazardous wastes in a tank or 
container for 80 days and then transferred the waste to a drip pad, the 
SQG would only have 90 days more (or a total of 170 days) to accumulate 
the waste on the drip pad before the generator sent the waste off-site 
for subsequent waste management, or conversely, treat and dispose of 
the waste on-site in compliance with all applicable RCRA regulations 
under parts 262 through 268 and 270.
    EPA solicits comments on these proposed revisions. In particular, 
EPA requests comment on whether SQGs accumulating hazardous waste on 
drip pads should be subject to the accumulation time limit of 180 days, 
similar to SQGs accumulating hazardous wastes in containers and tanks. 
Conversely, EPA is seeking comment on whether SQGs accumulating 
hazardous waste on drip pads should be subject to all applicable 
conditions and requirements for LQGs, and not just the 90-day 
accumulation time limit.
    The Agency also requests comment on the procedures for documenting 
and ensuring hazardous wastes are removed from the sump or collection 
system 90 days or less from being first placed on the drip pad and also 
for situations where hazardous waste accumulation involves both drip 
pads and containers or tanks.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. As part of the reorganization in this 
action, EPA is proposing to move the conditions for exemption for SQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste from Sec.  262.34 to Sec.  262.16. The 
proposed drip pad conditions for SQGs can be found at Sec.  
262.16(b)(4). The reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this 
preamble.
2. Accumulation of Hazardous Waste in Containment Buildings
    Consistent with the changes proposed for hazardous wastes 
accumulated on drip pads by SQGs, the Agency is also proposing that 
SQGs that accumulate hazardous waste in containment buildings for 90 
days or less without a permit or interim status must comply with the 
technical standards of part 265 subpart DD and with all other 
conditions associated with the accumulation of hazardous waste by SQGs 
currently found at Sec.  262.34(d).
    Similar to the drip pad regulations, the containment building 
regulations promulgated in 1992 (August 18, 1992, 57 FR 37194) did not 
discuss the possibility of an SQG accumulating hazardous wastes in a 
containment building, but instead only discussed TSDFs and LQGs 
accumulating hazardous waste in containment buildings (57 FR 37212). 
Thus, under the current regulations, SQGs that choose to manage 
hazardous wastes in containment buildings can only do so if they comply 
with the LQG requirements or obtain a Part B permit for their 
containment building.
    EPA is proposing to modify the regulations to allow SQGs to 
accumulate hazardous wastes in containment buildings for 90 days or 
less without a permit or without having interim status provided they 
comply with the technical standards of part 265 subpart DD and comply 
with all other conditions associated with the accumulation of hazardous 
waste by an SQG found at Sec.  262.34(d). As with wastes accumulated by 
SQGs on drip pads, the Agency believes that SQGs complying with the 
less stringent conditions at Sec.  262.34(d) (e.g., personnel training, 
contingency plan) will be protective of human health and the 
environment and other than complying with the management standards at 
40 CFR part 265 subpart DD, the Agency sees no difference in the risks 
associated with hazardous wastes accumulated in tanks or containers.
    As with drip pads, situations may potentially arise where hazardous 
wastes are first accumulated in a containment building and then 
transferred to containers for subsequent accumulation, or vice-versa. 
The Agency is proposing the same framework as described in the 
discussion on drip pads above for how long SQGs may accumulate 
hazardous wastes in a containment building to maintain their hazardous 
waste accumulation exemption.
    EPA solicits comments on this proposed revision. In particular, EPA 
requests comment regarding whether SQGs accumulating hazardous waste in 
containment buildings should be subject to the accumulation time limit 
of 180 days, similar to SQGs accumulating hazardous wastes in 
containers and tanks or, conversely, whether SQGs accumulating 
hazardous waste in containment buildings should be subject to all 
applicable conditions for an exemption and independent requirements for 
LQGs, and not just the 90-day accumulation time limit. EPA also seeks 
comment on situations where hazardous waste accumulation involves both 
containment buildings and containers or tanks.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization. As part of the reorganization in this 
action, EPA is proposing to move the conditions for

[[Page 57969]]

exemption for SQGs accumulating hazardous waste from Sec.  262.34 to 
Sec.  262.16. The proposed containment building regulations for SQGs 
can be found at Sec.  262.16(b)(5). The proposed containment building 
regulations for LQGs can be found at Sec.  262.17(a)(4). The 
reorganization is discussed in section XIII of this preamble.

K. Deletion of Performance Track Regulations

    EPA launched The National Environmental Performance Track in 2000 
to provide regulatory and administrative benefits to Performance Track 
members. Performance Track was a public-private partnership that 
encouraged continuous environmental improvement through use of 
environmental management systems, community outreach, and measurable 
results. In order to provide regulatory benefits to members, EPA made 
changes to the RCRA hazardous waste regulations, among others, that 
specifically referenced members of Performance Track.
    EPA terminated the Performance Track program in 2009. Therefore, 
EPA is proposing to remove obsolete references to Performance Track in 
the RCRA hazardous waste regulations as a part of this rulemaking. In 
some cases, a whole paragraph of regulation will be removed and in 
other instances we will remove just the part of the paragraph that 
references Performance Track. The deleted paragraphs would then be 
reserved to reduce the possibility of confusion by replacing them with 
other regulations. The references that would be removed would be the 
following:
     Sec.  260.10: Definition of Performance Track member 
facility;
     Sec.  262.34(j), (k), and (l): Regulations for 
accumulation of hazardous waste by LQGs in Performance Track;
     Sec.  262.211(c): Two parenthetical references to Sec.  
262.34 (j) and (k) in the regulations for academic labs in subpart K of 
part 262;
     Sec. Sec.  264.15(b)(4) and 265.15(b)(4): References to 
the requirements for inspection of areas of the facility subject to 
spills in Sec. Sec.  264.15(b)(5) and 265.15(b)(5), respectively;
     Sec. Sec.  264.15(b)(5) and 265.15(b)(5): Requirements for 
Performance Track member facilities that reduce inspection frequency 
for areas subject to spills;
     Sec. Sec.  264.174 and 265.174: References to Performance 
Track requirements for inspections of areas where containers are 
stored;
     Sec. Sec.  264.195(e), 265.195(d), and 265.201(e): 
Requirements for Performance Track member facilities for inspections of 
tank systems;
     Sec. Sec.  264.1101(c)(4) and 265.1101(c)(4): Requirements 
for Performance Track member facilities for reduced inspections of 
containment buildings;
     Sec.  270.42(l): Procedures for permit modifications for 
Performance Track member facilities; and
     Appendix 1 to Sec.  270.42--Classification of Permit 
Modification, Section O.1: Indication that a permit modification for 
reduced inspections for a Performance Track member facility is a Class 
1 permit modification.
    The provisions that EPA is proposing to remove were added to the 
regulations in the National Environmental Performance Track Program 
final rule, dated April 22, 2004 (69 FR 21737), the Resource 
Conservation and Recovery Act Burden Reduction Initiative final rule, 
dated April 4, 2006 (71 FR 16862), and the Academic Laboratories final 
rule, dated December 1, 2008 (73 FR 72912). The Agency is requesting 
comment on whether there are additional references to the Performance 
Track program in the RCRA hazardous waste regulations that should be 
removed as a part of this rulemaking.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

L. Clarification of Biennial Reporting Requirements (40 CFR 262.41)

    EPA is proposing to modify the biennial reporting regulations for 
generators found at 40 CFR 262.41 in order to make the regulations 
consistent with Agency guidance, including its biennial report 
instructions and forms. More specifically, the Agency is proposing the 
following revisions: (1) Only LQGs need to submit biennial reports; (2) 
LQGs must report all of the hazardous waste they generate for the 
entire reporting year, not just the month(s) the generator was an LQG; 
(3) LQGs completing a biennial report must report all hazardous wastes 
they generated in the reporting year, regardless of whether they 
transferred the waste off site during the reporting year; and (4) a 
reference to the biennial report form (EPA form 8700-13) at Sec.  
262.41 rather than the list of specific data elements in currently at 
that citation.
    Additionally, EPA is proposing to modify the title of subpart D 
from ``Recordkeeping and Reporting'' to ``Recordkeeping and Reporting 
Applicable to Small and Large Quantity Generators'' in order to 
highlight which entities need to comply with this subpart.
1. Biennial Report Requirements Are Only Applicable to LQGs
    The first proposed change is to modify the biennial reporting 
regulations in Sec.  262.41 to make these only applicable to LQGs (and 
thus not applicable to SQGs and CESQGs). Currently, the biennial report 
regulations at Sec.  262.41(a) and (b) refer to ``a generator'' and 
``any generator,'' but do not further specify which categories of 
generators must complete and submit a biennial report. However, current 
EPA guidance, as well as a 1986 FR notice, states that only LQGs must 
complete and submit a biennial report to EPA.104 105 To 
reduce confusion between the regulations and EPA's current guidance 
regarding the applicability of biennial reporting requirements, EPA is 
proposing to modify Sec.  262.41 to state that only LQGs are required 
to complete and submit a biennial report. This proposed change would 
not result in a substantive change to the existing regulations, but 
would make clear who is required to submit the biennial report. 
Additionally, EPA is proposing to modify the phrase ``prepare and 
submit'' which is the existing language in Sec.  262.41, to ``complete 
and submit'' because the Agency believes that ``complete and submit'' 
more accurately reflects that LQGs must complete all applicable 
elements of the biennial report forms.
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    \104\ The Federal Register notice states, ``the Agency is today 
finalizing the proposed exemption from the biennial report 
requirements of Sec.  262.41 for generators of 100-1000 kg/mo, 
including an exemption from the provisions of this section requiring 
a description of efforts taken during the reporting year to minimize 
waste generation.'' (51 FR 10160, March 24, 1986). Additionally, 
EPA's Hazardous Waste Report Instructions and Forms specify that 
only LQGs (as well as facilities that treat, store, or dispose of 
RCRA hazardous waste on-site) must complete and file the biennial 
report (http://www.epa.gov/osw/inforesources/data/biennialreport/index.htm).
    \105\ Both EPA and the states have received questions from 
generators regarding whether they must submit a biennial report.
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    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
2. LQGs Must Report All Hazardous Waste Generated During the Reporting 
Year, Not Just for the Month(s) the Generator Was an LQG
    The second proposed change is to modify the biennial reporting 
regulations to require LQGs to report all of the hazardous waste they 
generate for the entire reporting year, not just the month(s) the 
generator was actually an LQG. (Additionally, if EPA were to make final 
the proposed provision allowing an LQG to receive hazardous waste from 
a CESQG under control of

[[Page 57970]]

the same person, an LQG would also have to report the waste it received 
during the reporting year. See section VII.C of the preamble for 
discussion of this provision.) The Agency is proposing this change 
since there have been different positions provided by EPA regarding 
whether LQGs must report on the amount of hazardous waste generated and 
managed for the entire reporting year or only for those months they 
were an LQG, and, thus, were subject to the LQG standards, including 
biennial reporting. In addition, although the vast majority of states 
require LQGs to report the total amount of hazardous waste they 
generate for the entire reporting year, even if they were an LQG for 
only one calendar month, there are at least two states that only 
require LQGs to report the amount of hazardous waste generated and 
managed for those months they were an LQG.\106\
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    \106\ Relatedly, EPA is also proposing to allow CESQGs and SQGs 
that generate additional amounts of hazardous waste in response to 
an episodic event that would have required a bump up in generator 
category to maintain their generator category provided certain 
conditions are met. See section IX of this preamble for more 
information.
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    Specifically, in a 1980 Federal Register notice, the Agency stated, 
``The recordkeeping and reporting requirements of part 262 apply, 
however, only to those periods in which the generator's hazardous waste 
is subject to full regulation under part 262. Thus, for example, the 
annual report of a generator whose waste is subject to full regulation 
under part 262 for three months in a year would cover the generator's 
activity only for those three months'' (45 FR 76621, November 19, 
1980). However, current EPA guidance in the Hazardous Waste Report 
Instructions and Forms instructs generators to report the total 
quantity of hazardous waste generated during the reporting year. The 
regulations in Sec.  262.41 are silent on this issue.
    In the interest of national consistency, EPA proposes to modify the 
regulations at Sec.  262.41 to require LQGs to report the total amount 
of hazardous waste generated during the entire reporting year. EPA 
believes that this change will ensure a more complete and reliable 
estimate on the total amount of hazardous waste generated in order to 
support various RCRA program development and implementation efforts by 
EPA and the states.
    The Agency does not anticipate significant added burden from this 
provision. First, EPA knows of only two states (Idaho and Kentucky) 
that currently require generators to report only those hazardous wastes 
generated during the months the generator was an LQG. Thus, this 
modification will only affect a small percentage of the LQG universe 
that in certain months are not LQGs. Second, these LQGs are already 
completing a biennial report, so the change in burden will be in 
reporting the additional amounts of hazardous waste they generate for 
the remaining months of the reporting year that they were not an LQG. 
Third, generators are already required under Sec.  261.5(c) and (d) to 
count the amount of hazardous waste they generate monthly to determine 
their regulatory status and thus would be counting hazardous waste 
during months they are not LQGs. Fourth, most generators transfer the 
hazardous waste they generate off site and, thus, should be able to use 
their hazardous wastes manifests to calculate the total amount of 
hazardous wastes they generate annually.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
3. LQGs Must Report All Hazardous Waste Generated During the Reporting 
Year, Regardless of When the Waste Was Transferred Off Site
    The third proposed change requires LQGs completing a biennial 
report to report all hazardous wastes they generated during the 
reporting year, regardless of when the hazardous waste was transported 
off site. Although the current biennial report instructions clearly 
state that LQGs should report the total quantity of hazardous waste 
that was generated during the reporting year, the regulations do not 
address cases in which the generator generates hazardous waste during 
the reporting year, but ships the waste off site during the next 
calendar year.
    For purposes of completeness and to be consistent and avoid 
confusion with the current biennial report and its instructions, the 
Agency is proposing to state in Sec.  262.41 that LQGs must report all 
hazardous wastes they generate in the reporting year, regardless of 
when the generated hazardous waste was transferred off site. The Agency 
believes that this change will not pose a significant burden since the 
information is already available; it is simply stating clearly in which 
year the data is reported.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.
4. Replace the List of Specific Data Elements With an Independent 
Requirement To Complete and Submit All Data Elements Required in the 
Biennial Report Form (EPA Form 8700-13)
    EPA is proposing to modify the regulations at 40 CFR 262.41 to 
eliminate the specific list of data elements and to require the 
completion and submission of all data elements contained in the 
biennial report form (EPA form 8700-13).
    Section 262.41(a) currently requires that the biennial report 
include a specific list of data elements, including the name, address, 
and EPA ID number of the generator and each transporter and TSDF, the 
EPA hazardous waste number for each hazardous waste shipped off site, 
and a signed certification, among other things.
    In the nearly three decades since the biennial report regulations 
were first promulgated, EPA's biennial report form and instructions 
have evolved to enable better data analysis and to reduce burden, where 
possible. Thus, the regulations at Sec.  262.41 no longer accurately 
reflect the data elements currently listed in EPA's biennial report 
instructions and forms. For example, current EPA guidance for biennial 
reporting requires generators to identify their hazardous wastes using 
not only the EPA hazardous waste number, but also using source, form, 
and management method codes. Additionally, EPA no longer requires the 
collection of the name and EPA identification number of each 
transporter in the biennial report. In order to maintain consistency 
between the regulations at Sec.  262.41 and the EPA biennial report 
instructions and forms, EPA is proposing to remove the list of specific 
data elements currently in the regulations and to simply require 
completion and submission of all the data elements required in EPA form 
8700-13. This change eliminates the need to update the list of data 
elements in the regulations, which would require periodic rulemakings, 
every time that changes were made to the information to be provided.
    At least every three years, EPA's biennial report instructions and 
forms are reviewed and approved through the information collection 
request (ICR) process under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The PRA 
requires EPA to issue proposed and final notices in the Federal 
Register and to provide opportunity for public comment, thus ensuring 
that the regulated community is informed and has the opportunity to 
comment on the report instructions and

[[Page 57971]]

form. The PRA also requires approval by the Office of Management and 
Budget. Eliminating the list of specific data elements currently in the 
regulations therefore does not eliminate public input and avoids 
duplication with the review and approval processes established under 
the PRA.
    EPA does not believe this change in any way affects the 
enforceability of the biennial reporting regulations. Generators must 
complete and submit all information required by EPA form 8700-13. EPA 
also notes that this approach is similar to the current regulations at 
Sec.  262.12, which require generators to obtain an EPA identification 
number using EPA form 8700-12 (Site ID form). Section 262.12 does not 
contain an itemized list of specific data elements contained in EPA 
form 8700-12. Instead, it requires the completion and submission of the 
specified form.
    EPA also notes that some states develop their own biennial report 
forms, based on the federal forms. EPA does not believe this proposed 
change would impact the biennial reporting processes in these states. 
Authorized states that use a different form for collecting biennial 
report information would simply refer to their authorized state form in 
their state regulations.
5. Request for Comment
    The Agency requests comment on the proposed changes to Sec.  
262.41. EPA also specifically requests whether commenters believe the 
proposed change to eliminate the specific data elements in Sec.  262.41 
will ease compliance and understanding of the current biennial 
reporting procedures.

M. Provision Prohibiting Generators from Disposing of Liquids in 
Municipal Solid Waste Landfills (Proposed Sec.  262.14 and Sec.  
262.35)

    EPA is proposing to add a paragraph at Sec.  262.14 (for CESQGs) 
and Sec.  262.35 (for SQGs and LQGs) that hazardous waste generators 
are prohibited from disposing of liquid hazardous wastes in landfills. 
This is not a new requirement; it is a reflection of existing 
regulations found at Sec.  258.28 for municipal solid waste landfills 
(MSWLFs), and Sec. Sec.  264.314 and 265.314 for permitted and interim 
status hazardous waste landfills. The Agency believes it is important 
to emphasize that the responsibility for complying with this provision 
not only resides with municipal and hazardous waste haulers and 
landfill operators, but also with hazardous waste generators.
    The restriction for disposal of liquid hazardous waste in MSWLFs 
has been in place since 1991 at Sec.  258.28 and specifically restricts 
``bulk or noncontainerized liquid wastes, except (1) household wastes 
(other than septic wastes), and (2) leachate and gas condensate that is 
derived from the MSWLF unit where the unit is equipped with a composite 
liner and a leachate collection system. . . designed and constructed to 
maintain less than 30 centimeters of leachate over the liner'' (56 FR 
51055, October 9, 1991).\107\
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    \107\ The prohibition on liquid wastes in MSWLFs applies to all 
liquid wastes and not just liquid hazardous wastes.
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    In the same preamble, EPA went on to state that liquids 
restrictions are necessary because the disposal of liquids into 
landfills can be a significant source of leachate generation and that 
restricting the introduction of liquids into landfills would minimize 
the leachate generation potential of landfills and reduce the risk of 
liner failure and subsequent contamination of the ground water.\108\ 
The special requirements for bulk and containerized liquids in part 264 
address similar concerns about the management of liquids in 
landfills.\109\
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    \108\ 56 FR 51055, October 9, 1991.
    \109\ 40 CFR 264.314(a) and 265.314(a).
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    Under current practices and operations, the primary onus for seeing 
that hazardous waste liquids are restricted from landfills generally 
resides with the hauler. Should a random inspection at a landfill of 
the hauler's waste find liquid hazardous waste, the landfill operator 
cannot accept the hauler's waste without violating its landfill permit. 
As a result, the hauler would be required to transport its waste back 
to the generator or to a RCRA-permitted treatment facility and pay the 
significantly higher tipping fees for any required treatment prior to 
disposal. While the waste management hauler or transporter can provide 
a measure of oversight, ultimately the hauler must rely on the due 
diligence and waste management practices of the hazardous waste 
generator to avoid such an outcome. In other words, the hazardous waste 
generator is responsible for ensuring that hazardous waste liquids are 
not disposed of in landfills.
    Considering the importance of restricting liquid hazardous wastes 
in landfills, the Agency believes including a mirror provision in the 
40 CFR part 262 hazardous waste generator regulations would increase 
awareness, and thus compliance, by generators with the liquids 
restriction that currently exists in Sec. Sec.  258.28, 264.314(a) and 
265.314(a) Therefore, the Agency is proposing to incorporate this 
provision into the generator regulations at part 262.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed reorganization in that we are proposing to include the 
provision as a condition in Sec.  262.14 for CESQGs, as well as in 
Sec.  262.35 for SQGs and LQGs.

N. Extending Time Limit for Accumulation Under Alternative Requirements 
for Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Facilities (40 CFR Part 262 
Subpart K)

    The Agency is proposing to extend the accumulation time for 
unwanted material by eligible academic entities with laboratories 
operating under 40 CFR part 262 subpart K from six months to one year.
    Under 40 CFR part 262 subpart K eligible academic entities have the 
choice of operating their laboratories under the alternative subpart K 
standards instead of the satellite accumulation area regulations at 40 
CFR 262.34(c). Currently, if the eligible academic entity chooses to 
operate its laboratories under subpart K, the entity must remove the 
unwanted material from each laboratory under the following two 
circumstances: (1) Every 6 months; or (2) within 10 days, if the 
laboratory accumulates more than 55 gallons of unwanted material or 1 
quart of reactive acutely hazardous unwanted material.
    Operating under the SAA regulations, an eligible academic entity 
has no time limit for accumulation. Therefore, for smaller eligible 
academic entities that do not accumulate 55 gallons in a laboratory, 
subpart K's six month accumulation time limit can mean a shorter, more 
stringent, accumulation time than they have under the satellite 
accumulation area regulations. Eligible academic entities have cited 
this shorter accumulation time as a disincentive for opting into the 
alternative standards in subpart K. The Agency therefore requests 
comment regarding its proposal to increase the accumulation time limit 
in an eligible academic entity's laboratory to 12 months.
    Lengthening the time would yield a cost savings for those operating 
under subpart K compared to the costs they have now. The longer 
accumulation time would come with no increased risk because the volume 
limits--which are the same as the SAA volume limits--would continue to 
be in place for the rare cases where labs do accumulate 55 gallons of 
unwanted material or 1 quart of reactive acutely hazardous unwanted 
material.
    The Agency requests comment on extending the accumulation time for

[[Page 57972]]

unwanted material by eligible academic entities with laboratories 
operating under 40 CFR part 262 subpart K, from six months to one year.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

IX. Proposed Addition to 40 CFR Part 262 for Generators that 
Temporarily Change Generator Category as a Result of an Episodic Event

    EPA is proposing to allow a CESQG or an SQG to maintain its 
existing generator category if, as a result of a planned or unplanned 
episodic event, the generator would generate a quantity of hazardous 
waste in a calendar month sufficient to bump the facility into a more 
stringent generator category (i.e., CESQG to either an SQG or an LQG; 
or an SQG to an LQG). This proposed change would allow a CESQG or SQG 
to generate additional quantities of hazardous waste--exceeding its 
normal generator category limits temporarily--and still maintain its 
existing regulatory category provided it complies with specified 
conditions discussed below. Because these events are considered to be 
temporary and episodic in nature, the hazardous waste generator would 
only be allowed to take advantage of this provision once every calendar 
year. Also as explained below, a CESQG or SQG could petition EPA to 
manage one additional episodic event per calendar year.

A. Background

    Under the current RCRA regulatory framework for hazardous waste 
generators, a generator's category is determined by the quantity of 
hazardous waste it generates in a calendar month. For example, if a 
generator generates less than or equal to 100 kilograms of non-acute 
hazardous waste and 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste in a calendar 
month, then it can comply with the regulations applicable to a 
CESQG.\110\ However, if that same generator generates more than 100 
kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms of non-acute hazardous waste 
and less than or equal to 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste in the 
following calendar month, then it must comply with all applicable 
regulations associated with an SQG.
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    \110\ Note: Besides the generation of non-acute hazardous waste, 
a generator's category is also determined by the quantities of acute 
hazardous waste it generates in a calendar month.
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    At issue is when the generator generates an additional quantity of 
hazardous waste in a calendar month as a result of an episodic event--
(planned or unplanned)--only to revert back to its normal waste 
generation quantities in the following month. For example, a CESQG 
plans a short-term demolition project that generates an additional 500 
kilograms of hazardous waste in the calendar month, resulting in the 
CESQG becoming an SQG for that calendar month. However, once the 
demolition project has been completed, the generator's waste generation 
drops such that it again qualifies as a CESQG. Other examples of 
planned episodic events include tank cleanouts, short-term construction 
projects, site remediation, equipment maintenance during plant shut 
downs, and removal of excess chemical inventories.
    Unplanned episodic events, which may be less frequent, include 
production process upsets, product recalls, excess inventory, 
accidental spills, or ``acts of nature,'' such as a tornado, hurricane, 
or flood. For example, an SQG suffers an unplanned disruption in 
production that results in the generation of 3,000 kilograms of an off-
specification product that cannot be sold and must be discarded, 
therefore bumping the generator from an SQG to an LQG for that calendar 
month.
    Currently, for the one month the hazardous waste generator was 
subject to more stringent regulations, the generator has two options: 
(1) Temporarily change its waste management practices to comply with 
those of the more stringent generator category for the duration of the 
event or (2) permanently adjust and manage all subsequent quantities it 
generates in the more stringent generator category (even though it is 
in a less stringent generator category in subsequent months). 
Generators that do not comply will be out of compliance with the 
applicable regulations.
    Under the current regulatory framework, a CESQG must comply with 
minimal conditions for an exemption. For non-acute hazardous waste, 
these include the following: making a hazardous waste determination; 
counting the amount of hazardous waste it generates to ensure it is a 
CESQG (e.g., generates less than or equal to 100 kilograms of non-acute 
hazardous waste and 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste in a calendar 
month); accumulating no more than 1,000 kilograms on site at any one 
time; and sending its hazardous waste for subsequent off-site waste 
management to one of several specified designation facilities.\111\ 
However, if an episodic event were to occur, such as the generation of 
an additional 500 kilograms of non-acute hazardous waste resulting from 
a disruption in production process, the generator would need to comply 
with the SQG regulations that include both independent requirements and 
conditions for exemption. Having to obtain a RCRA identification number 
would be an example of an independent requirement, whereas managing its 
hazardous wastes in containers or tanks subject to the applicable 40 
CFR part 265 subparts I and J regulations, and marking and labeling the 
containers would be examples of conditions for exemption. EPA believes 
requiring a CESQG to comply with the additional SQG or LQG regulations 
or an SQG to comply with the LQG regulations for the month its 
hazardous waste exceeded the quantity limits based on an episodic event 
(planned or unplanned) may be unnecessary to protect human health and 
the environment. Instead, the Agency is proposing a more practical 
approach to ease compliance for episodic generators and still protect 
human health and the environment. By complying with the specified 
conditions, the generator would be able to maintain its current 
generator category and would not be required to comply with the more 
stringent site-wide regulations applicable to the higher generator 
category.
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    \111\ A CESQG may send its hazardous waste to (1) a hazardous 
waste facility permitted by EPA; (2) an interim status hazardous 
waste facility; (3) a hazardous waste facility permitted by an 
authorized state; (4) a facility permitted, licensed or registered 
by a state to manage municipal solid waste; (5) a facility 
permitted, licensed or registered by a state to manage non-municipal 
non-hazardous solid waste; (6) a facility which beneficially uses or 
reuses or legitimacy recycles or reclaims its wastes or treats its 
waste prior to beneficial use or reuse or legitimacy recycling or 
reclamation; or (7) universal waste handler or destination facility 
subject to the requirements in 40 CFR part 273.
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    Although EPA does not have specific information regarding the 
number of generators that may take advantage of its proposed 
alternative episodic standards, we can make certain estimates using 
data collected through the biennial report. EPA currently estimates 
that 1,270-2,550 generators could potentially take advantage of this 
provision if it is finalized.\112\ However, EPA believes that the 
potential universe of generators that may want to take advantage of the 
episodic event standards may be significantly higher and is seeking 
comment on what a more reliable estimate might be. For example, there 
may be certain industrial sectors in which generators have a higher 
probability of being episodic generators

[[Page 57973]]

than in others (e.g., retail, oil and gas exploration, utilities, and 
military bases).
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    \112\ Assessment of the Potential Costs, Benefits, and Other 
Impacts of the Improvements to the Hazardous Waste Generator 
Regulatory Program, As Proposed, prepared for U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency by Industrial Economics, Incorporated, May 2015.
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    On February 14, 2014, EPA published a Notice of Data Availability 
for the Retail Sector in which the Agency requested, among other 
topics, comments from retailers on issues they face in complying with 
the RCRA regulations. Some commenters mentioned the challenge posed by 
complying with the hazardous waste regulations when an irregular event 
causes them to exceed the threshold of their normal generator category 
for a single month. This provision would provide a way for retailers 
and others to manage that challenge.

B. Proposed Conditions for Episodic Generators

    Under the proposed framework, a CESQG or an SQG generating an 
increased quantity of hazardous waste because of an episodic event that 
resulted in a temporary change in a generator's category would be able 
to maintain its existing generator category provided specified 
conditions are met as the waste is accumulated. We believe these 
conditions will be sufficient to ensure these additional hazardous 
wastes are managed in an environmentally sound manner. Similar to the 
existing hazardous waste regulatory framework, should a CESQG fail to 
meet the specified conditions, it would immediately lose the CESQG 
accumulation exemption and be the operator of a non-exempt storage 
facility unless it also immediately complied with all of the conditions 
for exemption for an SQG or LQG. If an SQG failed to meet any specified 
condition for exemption, it would immediately lose its exemption and be 
the operator of a non-exempt storage facility unless it had immediately 
complied with all of the conditions for an exemption for an LQG.
    For both CESQGs and SQGs taking advantage of this provision, the 
following conditions must be met:
    (1) Episodic events are limited to one per calendar year;
    (2) The generator must notify EPA at least 30 calendar days prior 
to initiating a planned episodic event or within 24 hours after an 
unplanned episodic event or as soon as possible; identify the start and 
end dates, which may be no more than 45 days apart, as well as other 
information about the event; and identify a facility contact and/or 
emergency coordinator with 24-hour telephone access to discuss 
notification submittal or respond to emergency;
    (3) The generator must obtain an EPA ID number (CESQGs);
    (4) The generator must comply with specified hazardous waste 
management conditions as the waste is accumulated on-site;
    (5) The generator must use a hazardous waste manifest and hazardous 
waste transporter to ship the waste generated by the episodic event to 
a RCRA-designated facility within 45 calendar days from the start of 
the episodic event;
    (6) The generator must complete and maintain specified records.
    EPA is also proposing a petition process to allow hazardous waste 
generators to request from EPA one additional episodic event within the 
same calendar year and/or an extension of up to 30 calendar days to 
complete an episodic event and still be eligible to maintain its 
generator category. An example of how the implementation of these 
provisions would work in practice, particularly the start and end dates 
in conjunction with normal waste generation and accumulation 
operations, follows a discussion of these requirements.
    The proposed regulations for episodic generators are located at a 
new part 262 subpart L, Sec. Sec.  262.230-232.
1. Number of Episodic Events per Calendar Year
    The Agency is proposing that a CESQG or a SQG be allowed to exceed 
its generator category limits only once per calendar year without 
affecting its generator category.113 114 EPA has several 
reasons for this restriction. First, if a CESQG or SQG exceeds its 
generator category limits more frequently than once per calendar year, 
EPA is concerned that these generators are more likely to be routinely 
generating greater amounts of hazardous waste and thus it may be more 
appropriate for the generator to comply with the regulations applicable 
to the higher generator category, at least for the months they exceed 
the quantity limits for their generator category. Second, EPA believes 
most hazardous waste generators experience an episodic event 
infrequently, such as once every few years, and these events are 
typically planned maintenance projects. Third, the Agency does not 
consider an episodic event to be limited to one project within the 
generator's site. In fact, a generator could start and complete 
multiple projects (e.g., a small demolition project, a tank cleanout, 
and removal of excess chemicals) at different dates within the 45 day 
time limit so long as it stayed within the 45 day start and end dates 
identified on the notification form with all hazardous waste generated 
considered part of the same episodic event.
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    \113\ As discussed later, the length of a generator's episodic 
event may overlap two calendar years in which case discretion would 
be provided to EPA or the authorized state as to how it would 
address a request for another episodic event in the second year by a 
generator.
    \114\ EPA is proposing a process to petition the Agency for an 
additional event, if warranted.
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2. Notification
    A SQG or CESQG would have to notify EPA no later than 30 days prior 
to initiating a planned episodic event using EPA form 8700-12 (Site ID 
form). Should EPA finalize this provision, EPA will provide 
instructions in the Site ID form on how to report an episodic event 
(for example, using the notes section of the form). The hazardous waste 
generator would be required to identify the dates the episodic event 
will begin and end--a time frame not to exceed 45 calendar days--as 
well as describe the reason for the event and the types and estimated 
quantities of hazardous wastes that would be generated during the 
event. Should an unplanned event occur, the generator would be required 
to notify EPA as soon as possible via phone or email, but must submit 
EPA form 8700-12 (Site ID form) within 24 hours of the unplanned event, 
or as soon as possible depending upon the circumstances. Unless 
notified by EPA or an authorized state, a CESQG or SQG would be allowed 
to begin its episodic event on the date identified on its form 8700-12.
    The date identified on the notification form as the start date for 
the episodic event is assumed to be the date the generator initiates 
physical action in generating and accumulating the hazardous waste. 
Whether such action actually occurs on that date or after by the 
generator will have no impact in changing the end date of the episodic 
event identified on the notification form.
    No matter what, the end date must be no later than 45 calendar days 
from the date identified on the notification form as the start date of 
the episodic event. The end date will be the date on which all 
hazardous waste generated from the episodic event, and possibly other 
hazardous waste also generated during that time period as part of 
normal operations, will have had to be removed and sent to a RCRA 
designation facility as verified by the hazardous waste manifest. The 
Agency does not see any reason to preclude a generator taking advantage 
of this provision to also dispose of other hazardous wastes generated 
during the time of the episodic event.

[[Page 57974]]

    As part of the notification form, a CESQG would have to notify its 
local fire department that it was taking advantage of an episodic 
event. The notice would need to include the start and end dates and 
identify the types and quantities of hazardous wastes that would be 
generated.
    EPA believes notification is essential to inform regulatory 
authorities of the facility's activities in order to enable adequate 
compliance monitoring of the facility with the conditions of the 
alternative standards.
3. EPA ID Number
    A CESQG generating and accumulating quantities of hazardous waste 
that would otherwise result in a higher generator category because of 
an episodic event (whether planned or unplanned) would be required, 
under the proposed regulations, to obtain an EPA ID number using EPA 
form 8700-12 if one had not previously been assigned. A generator 
cannot initiate a hazardous waste shipment to a RCRA-designated 
facility without an EPA ID number. (SQGs are already required to obtain 
an EPA ID number.)
4. Waste Management Standards
    a. Accumulation standards for CESQGs. Under the current 
regulations, a CESQG must not accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms of 
non-acute hazardous waste at any one time, but otherwise does not have 
any on-site waste management standards when accumulating hazardous 
waste, primarily because the quantities generated every month are so 
small. EPA is proposing to require a CESQG that generates episodic 
hazardous waste that would cause the CESQG to exceed its generator 
category limit for the calendar month to comply with the following 
accumulation standards for containers and tanks that manage the 
episodic wastes if it wants to take advantage of the episodic generator 
provision (CESQGs are prohibited from using a drip pad or a containment 
building). EPA believes that these standards are necessary because the 
quantity of hazardous waste that is accumulated during this episodic 
period requires standards for safe management in order to adequately 
protect human health and the environment.
    When accumulating hazardous waste in containers, the CESQG would be 
required to mark its containers with the following: (1) The words 
``Episodic Hazardous Waste''; (2) other words that identify the 
contents of the containers--examples may include, but are not limited 
to the name of the chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene 
dichloride,'' or the type or class of chemical, such as ``organic 
solvents'' or ``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the 
proper shipping name and technical name markings used to comply with 
DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D; and (3) an indication of 
the hazards of the contents of the container--examples of hazards 
include, but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic). In the 
case of hazardous wastes ultimately treated and disposed of off-site, 
the generator could use a hazard class label consistent with the DOT 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling), use a label 
consistent with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 
1920.1200, or use a chemical hazard label consistent with the NFPA code 
704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' GHS. 
Generators also may use any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that would alert workers and emergency 
responders to the nature of the hazards associated with the contents of 
the containers.
    These marking standards are the same as those for LQGs and SQGs 
accumulating hazardous wastes in containers in the course of normal 
business operations and are necessary to protect human health and the 
environment. In addition to these, the CESQG would be required to mark 
the date that the episodic event began clearly on each container.
    For tanks, the CESQG would have to mark or label the tank 
containing hazardous waste accumulated during the event with the words 
``Episodic Hazardous Waste'' and would be required to use inventory 
logs, monitoring equipment, or other records to identify the contents 
of the tank, the quantity accumulated as a result of the episodic 
event, and the associated hazards and to identify the date that the 
episodic event began. The records containing this information would 
have to be immediately accessible by the generator.
    In addition, the generator would be required to manage the 
hazardous waste in a manner that minimizes the possibility of an 
accident or release. Management standards are critical to ensure the 
hazardous waste does not pose a risk to human health and the 
environment. A CESQG may use best management practices to comply with 
this condition. In practice, this includes managing the hazardous waste 
in containers that are in good condition and chemically compatible with 
any hazardous waste accumulated therein and keeping the containers 
closed except to add or remove waste. Complying with the standards in 
part 265 subpart I would satisfy this condition.
    With respect to tanks, the following standards are proposed: (1) 
Having procedures in place to prevent overflow (e.g., the tank is 
equipped with a means to stop inflow with systems such as a waste feed 
cutoff system or bypass system to a standby tank when hazardous waste 
is continuously fed into the tank); (2) inspecting the tank(s) at least 
once each operating day during the episodic event to ensure all 
applicable discharge control equipment, such as waste feed cutoff 
systems, bypass systems, and drainage systems, are in good working 
order and (3) using appropriate controls and practices to prevent 
spills and overflows from tank or secondary containment systems 
including at a minimum spill prevention controls (e.g., check valves, 
dry disconnect couplings), overfill prevention controls (e.g., level 
sensing devices, high level alarms, automatic feed cutoff, or bypass to 
a standby tank), maintenance of sufficient freeboard in uncovered tanks 
to prevent overtopping by wave or wind action or by precipitation. Such 
practices are necessary to prevent the release of the hazardous waste 
or hazardous constituents to air, soil, or water, which could threaten 
human health and the environment.
    As mentioned above, an emergency coordinator (in compliance with 
proposed Sec.  262.16(b)(9)(i)) must be identified for the duration of 
the episodic event on the notification form. A CESQG taking advantage 
of this provision would also need to notify the local fire department 
of who their emergency coordinator was if they had not done so already 
for other emergency preparedness and planning reasons. An emergency 
coordinator is needed because the CESQG will be generating greater 
amounts of hazardous waste than normal and, should an accident occur, 
the emergency coordinator would need to be prepared to handle the 
situation.
    EPA believes these management standards are necessary to adequately 
protect human health and the environment because of the additional 
quantities of hazardous waste generated and accumulated as a result of 
an episodic event. The Agency, however, seeks comment on these proposed 
management standards. In particular, the Agency is aware of concerns 
expressed by generators in the past that the marking and labeling of 
tanks with the date the generator first began

[[Page 57975]]

accumulating hazardous waste could prove problematic since the tank 
could have numerous markings on it. (See comments found in RCRA Docket 
EPA-HQ-RCRA-2008-0678 in response to EPA's Technical Corrections Direct 
Final rule, 75 FR 12989.) The Agency has responded to this concern by 
allowing generators to use log books and other means to identify the 
hazardous waste accumulation start date. However, the Agency is 
proposing that CESQGs (and SQGs) label their tanks with the words 
``Episodic Hazardous Waste'' so that emergency responders and others 
are readily aware of the tank's contents and situation. The Agency 
requests comment on whether this requirement could also prove 
problematic, and if so, why, and what cost-effective alternatives exist 
to address those concerns and still allow emergency responders, 
inspectors, workers, etc. to be readily aware of the tank's hazardous 
waste contents.
    Under the existing regulations, CESQGs may not treat hazardous 
waste generated on site in a manner equivalent to SQGs and LQGs under 
Sec.  262.34, except in an on-site elementary neutralization unit. 
Elementary neutralization units, as defined in Sec.  260.10, are exempt 
from RCRA treatment, storage, and disposal standards and permitting 
requirements. The elementary neutralization unit exclusion does not 
preclude a CESQG from treating waste in the exempt unit as long as the 
generator meets the criteria outlined in Sec. Sec.  264.1(g)(6), 
265.1(c)(10), and 270.1(c)(2)(v). Specifically, the elementary 
neutralization unit must meet the definition of a container, tank, tank 
system, transport vehicle, or vessel, and must be used for neutralizing 
wastes that are hazardous only because of the corrosivity 
characteristic.\115\
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    \115\ RCRA Hotline Q & A, February 1996, RCRA Online 13778.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Considering that CESQGs will be required to meet additional waste 
management requirements under this proposed rule for episodic 
generation, the Agency seeks comment on whether CESQGs taking advantage 
of this provision should be allowed to treat their episodic hazardous 
waste on site in a manner equivalent to SQGs and LQGs at Sec.  262.34. 
In particular, the Agency seeks comment on whether the volume of 
hazardous waste generated from an episodic event exceeds the capacity 
and expertise of CESQGs, which are accustomed to managing smaller 
quantities of hazardous waste, and whether the Agency should identify a 
select list of allowable types of treatment that would not pose a risk 
to human health and the environment.
    b. Manifest use by CESQGs and management at a RCRA-designated 
facility. EPA is proposing to require CESQGs to manifest the hazardous 
waste generated from an episodic event and send it to a RCRA-designated 
facility. Under current regulations, CESQGs are not required to 
manifest their hazardous waste to a RCRA-designated facility, but can 
ship them without a manifest and to one of seven types of facilities 
listed in Sec.  261.5(f)(3). Because the CESQG will be generating 
quantities of hazardous waste that exceed its normal generator category 
thresholds, the Agency believes the use of a hazardous waste manifest 
and the shipment of the hazardous waste to a RCRA-designated facility 
is necessary to protect human health and the environment. However, the 
condition to manifest the hazardous waste and send it off site to a 
RCRA-designated facility would only apply to the hazardous waste 
generated as a result of the episodic event. The condition would not 
apply, unless if for economic or logistical reasons, the CESQG desired 
to ship off site to a RCRA-designated facility all hazardous waste 
generated and accumulated either as a result of the episodic event, 
independent of the episodic event, or prior to the event.
    c. Accumulation standards for SQGs. Under the current regulations, 
SQGs must comply with the waste accumulation, waste management, 
employee training, and emergency preparedness and prevention conditions 
at 40 CFR 262.34 (d)-(f) with references to 40 CFR 265 subparts C, I, 
and J in order to accumulate hazardous waste without a RCRA storage 
permit or compliance with interim status standards. SQGs may not take 
advantage of this proposed episodic generation provision for wastes 
accumulated on drip pads or in containment buildings although EPA does 
seek comment on allowing episodic event wastes to be accumulated in 
these units prior to sending the hazardous waste off-site for treatment 
and disposal to a RCRA designated facility. Under this proposed rule, 
EPA is proposing to require an SQG that generates episodic hazardous 
waste that would cause the SQG to exceed their generator category 
limits for the calendar month to comply with certain standards for 
containers and tanks if it desires to take advantage of the episodic 
generator provision.
    When accumulating hazardous waste generated as a result of an 
episodic event in containers, the SQG would be required to mark its 
containers with the following: (1) The words ``Episodic Hazardous 
Waste''; (2) other words that identify the contents of the containers--
examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride,'' or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with DOT requirements 
at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D; and (3) an indication of the hazards of 
the contents of the container--examples of hazards include, but are not 
limited to, the applicable hazardous waste characteristic(s) (i.e., 
ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic). In the case of hazardous wastes 
ultimately treated and disposed of off-site, the generator could use a 
hazard class label consistent with the DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 
172 subpart E (labeling), a label consistent with the OSHA Hazard 
Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200, a chemical hazard label 
consistent with the NFPA code 704, or a hazard pictogram consistent 
with the United Nations' GHS. Generators also may use any other marking 
or labeling commonly used nationwide in commerce that would alert 
workers and emergency responders to the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the containers.
    These standards are the same as those for SQGs accumulating 
hazardous wastes in containers in the course of normal business 
operations and are necessary to protect human health and the 
environment. In addition to these, the SQG would be required to mark 
the date that the episodic event began clearly on each container.
    For tanks, the SQG would be required to mark or label the tank 
containing hazardous waste accumulated during the event with the words 
``Episodic Hazardous Waste'' and would be required to use inventory 
logs, monitoring equipment, or other records to identify the contents 
of the tank and the associated hazards and to identify the date that 
the episodic event began and ended. The generator would need to have 
records containing this information immediately accessible.
    In addition, the SQG would need to comply with all the conditions 
of the exemption in Sec.  262.34 (d) through (f) with references to 40 
CFR 265 subparts C, I, and J, part 268 land disposal restrictions 
(Sec.  262.16 under the proposed reorganization)--that is, the waste 
accumulation, waste management, employee training, and emergency 
preparedness and prevention conditions.

[[Page 57976]]

    d. Manifest use by SQGs. As under the current regulations, EPA is 
proposing that SQGs manifest the hazardous waste generated from an 
episodic event and send it to a RCRA-designated facility, unless the 
waste is managed on site. The Agency believes the use of a hazardous 
waste manifest and shipment of the hazardous waste to a RCRA-designated 
facility is necessary to protect human health and the environment. 
However, unlike CESQGs, the use of the hazardous waste manifest would 
apply not only to the wastes generated from the episodic event, but all 
other hazardous wastes the SQG generates within its generator category.
5. Forty-five (45) Days or Less Would be Allowed to Treat and Dispose 
of Hazardous Wastes On Site (SQGs) or Manifested and Shipped Off Site 
(CESQGs or SQGs) to a RCRA-Designated Facility
    The Agency is proposing to allow SQGs and CESQGs 45 calendar days 
to initiate and complete an episodic event, which includes generation, 
accumulation and management (e.g., recycling, treatment and disposal--
either on site, such as waste neutralization in a container, or off 
site at a RCRA-designated facility) of all hazardous waste resulting 
from the episodic event. The Agency believes 45 days is sufficient time 
for a generator to complete management of the hazardous waste from the 
time that the generator begins generating and accumulating the 
hazardous waste. However, as discussed below, a CESQG or SQG can 
petition the Agency for additional time to complete the generation and 
removal of the hazardous waste during the episodic event, if necessary.
6. Recordkeeping
    Finally, generators would need to keep the following information in 
their records: (1) Beginning and end dates of the episodic event; (2) a 
description of the episodic event; (3) a description of the types and 
quantities of hazardous wastes generated during the episodic event; (4) 
a description of how the hazardous waste was managed as well as the 
name of the RCRA designated facility that received the hazardous waste; 
(5) name(s) of hazardous waste transporters, as appropriate; (6) an 
approval letter from EPA, if the generator successfully petitioned to 
conduct an additional episodic event during the calendar year; and (7) 
an approval letter from EPA, if the generator successfully petitioned 
for an additional 30 calendar day extension. These records would need 
to be maintained on site by the generator for three years from the 
completion date of each episodic event.
    EPA believes the recordkeeping condition is critical to enable 
effective and credible oversight. We also believe that the information 
to be maintained is the minimum information necessary to determine that 
any hazardous waste generated during the episodic event is managed 
properly.
7. Petitions
a. Petition To Request one Additional Episodic Event
    While the Agency believes that most generators will experience an 
episodic event infrequently, we also recognize that there may be 
situations, often unexpected, where a hazardous waste generator may 
have more than one episodic event within a calendar year, such as an 
unexpected product recall, a major spill, or an act of nature. 
Therefore, the Agency is proposing to allow CESQGs and SQGs to petition 
EPA (at least 30 days before initiating a planned episodic event and 
within 24 hours after an unplanned event) for permission to manage one 
additional episodic event without impacting the hazardous waste 
generator category. The petition must include (1) the reason why an 
additional episodic event is needed and the nature of the episodic 
event; (2) the estimated amount of hazardous waste to be managed from 
the event; (3) how the hazardous waste is to be managed; (4) the 
estimated length of time needed to complete management of the hazardous 
waste generated from the episodic event--not to exceed 45 days; and (5) 
information regarding previous episodic event(s) managed by the 
generator and whether it complied with the proposed conditions. EPA 
will then evaluate this and other site-specific information to 
determine whether a generator should be allowed to initiate a second 
episodic event under the proposed alternative standards. The petition 
by the generator may be made via fax, email, or letter. The generator 
may not manage hazardous waste for an additional episodic event until 
written approval by EPA (or the authorized state) has been received. 
The generator must retain written approval in its records for three 
years from the date the episodic event ended.
b. Petition To Request Additional Time To Complete an Episodic Event
    Events may arise, particularly unplanned events, such as an ``act 
of nature,'' where 45 days is insufficient to complete the event. The 
Agency is proposing to allow generators to petition EPA for an 
additional 30 days to complete the generation and removal of hazardous 
waste, if needed. The petition must include (1) the nature of the 
episodic event; (2) the estimated amount of hazardous waste to be 
managed from the event; and (3) and the generator's rationale for 
needing an extension for an additional 30 days beyond the 45-day limit 
to complete the episodic event. EPA will then evaluate the generator's 
request to determine whether it should be allowed up to an additional 
30 days to complete the episodic event. For example, a situation may 
exist where a hazardous waste transporter cannot arrive and remove 
hazardous waste generated until the 46th day because of unforeseen 
problems with its truck or the generator did not foresee problems with 
completing a tank cleanout because cleanout equipment failed to 
operate. These are all site-specific situations that EPA or authorized 
state would evaluate when making its decision. The generator cannot go 
beyond the 45-day limit unless written approval by EPA has been 
received.
    The generator would need to petition EPA for approval at least 15 
days before the original end date of the episodic event. The petition 
by the generator may be made via fax, email, or letter. The generator 
must retain written approval in its records for three years from the 
date the episodic event ended.
    Should the generator request an extension from the Agency or 
authorized state with less than 15 days remaining and be denied the 
extension, then the generator would have to remove all hazardous wastes 
generated as a result of the episodic event as of the specified end 
date in its notification or be in violation of its exemption.
    Unlike rulemaking petitions in part 260 subpart C of the hazardous 
waste regulations, the Agency is not proposing to have a notice and 
comment period for granting an episodic event or an extension. The 
Agency believes a generator's actions and performance will dictate 
approval or disapproval of a generator's request. In addition, in some 
cases a timely response to these requests is critical, especially with 
requests for extension. Taking notice and comment would delay that 
response.
8. Tracking and Accounting for Hazardous Waste Generation and 
Accumulation as a Result of an Episodic Event Along With Normal 
Production Operations
    In practice, a generator taking advantage of this rule, in 
particular a CESQG or SQG, must track and monitor the start and end 
dates of the episodic event in conjunction with the date the

[[Page 57977]]

calendar month ends to ensure compliance with all RCRA regulatory 
provisions associated with waste generation and management. An example 
may be the best way of explaining how this rule would work.
    A CESQG could have a number of facility operations (e.g., tank 
cleanouts, disposal of off-spec products it cannot sell or reclaim, 
repair work involving the removal of lead paint chips) that will often 
result in a temporary change in its regulatory category. The CESQG 
decides to notify its authorized state two months prior (as well as 
identifying a point of contact and emergency coordinator) that it will 
initiate the planned episodic event on July 20 and take advantage of 
the full 45 days allowed to conduct the event and end on September 2. 
Beginning on July 20, the generator must comply with all of the 
regulatory standards of subpart L discussed above to maintain its 
exemption as a CESQG. Under this example, if the generator complies 
with subpart L, it need not be concerned about the total amount of 
hazardous waste it will generate in the calendar months of July and 
August (e.g. 100 kg or less) or whether it will exceed the hazardous 
waste accumulation total of less than 1,000 kilograms associated with a 
CESQG.
    However, on or before September 2, the generator must remove and 
dispose of all the hazardous wastes it generated over the course of the 
last 45 days that represented the episodic event. Provided the 
generator meets that deadline, that waste would not count when 
determining the generator's status. In this example, the generator 
chooses to also dispose of waste generated from its normal operations 
by September 2. In this case, it would then not count that waste in 
determining its generator status for July, August, and September. The 
CESQG would then estimate the quantity of hazardous waste it generates 
and accumulates for the remainder of September (starting on September 3 
until the end of the month) to determine its regulatory category.
    If the generator decides to separate out normal production 
operations from episodic event operations, then the waste from normal 
operations is counted each month to determine the generator's status. 
For example, assume the generator at the beginning of the episodic 
event had accumulated 950 kg of hazardous waste and proceeds to 
accumulate another 75 kg over the course of the 45-day episodic event 
that is associated with normal operations.\116\ On September 3, if the 
generator had not disposed of that 1,025 kg of hazardous waste along 
with all of the episodic event hazardous wastes it generated and 
accumulated, then it would have violated the accumulation provision of 
a CESQG at 40 CFR 261.5(g)(2) (e.g., less than 1,000 kg) and would be 
in violation of the conditions of the CESQG exemption. A similar 
concern might occur if the generator generated 101 kg of hazardous 
wastes on September 1 and 2 from normal operations and did not dispose 
of it by September 2 with the waste from the episodic event. The 
generator would not be in compliance with the CESQG threshold for the 
calendar month and would be required to comply with the SQG conditions 
for exemption or be in violation of the exemption.
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    \116\ Note that it would not matter how much the CESQG had 
generated during a calendar month in which the episodic event begins 
because all of that hazardous waste is now folded into the hazardous 
waste generated as a result of the episodic event. Otherwise, the 
rule would not work from a practical viewpoint.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    There are numerous variations on the above example (e.g., request 
to extend the length of time for the episodic event, etc.) that a 
generator would have to be aware of when it ended its episodic event to 
avoid exceeding waste generation totals for the calendar month or waste 
accumulation limitation totals.
9. An Episodic Event Involving Two Calendar Years
    An episodic event may also involve overlapping two calendar years. 
The Agency is proposing that the generator count all the waste from the 
episodic event in the year with the most days involved in the episodic 
event. In other words, if the episodic event begins on December 16 of 
year 1 and ends on January 30 of year 2, the waste would count in year 
2.

C. Request for Comment

    The Agency requests comment on its proposed approach for addressing 
hazardous waste generated during an episodic event. Specifically, the 
Agency requests comment on whether the overall approach proposed would 
assist generators and allow a CESQG or SQG to maintain its generator 
category and not be bumped up into a more stringent generator category 
temporarily.
    EPA also requests comment on the number of episodic events that 
would be allowed under these proposed alternative regulations. As 
stated above, we are proposing to allow CESQGs and SQGs to take 
advantage of this alternative regulatory framework for one episodic 
event per calendar year, with the ability to petition EPA for one 
additional event per calendar year. EPA is interested in ideas on how 
best to structure this alternative framework in terms of identifying a 
reasonable number of episodic events allowed per year and identifying 
an appropriate time period allowed to conduct and manage the hazardous 
waste from an episodic event in a way that would be effective while 
still ensuring protection of human health and the environment.
    Additionally, the Agency requests comment regarding its proposed 
conditions for CESQGs and SQGs managing hazardous waste generated from 
the episodic event, such as the proposed 45-day limit to generate and 
manage the waste and the ability for CESQGs and SQGs to petition the 
Agency for one additional episodic event per calendar year or an 
additional 30 days to complete an episodic event. The Agency also 
requests comment on whether the proposed conditions for CESQGs and SQGs 
are reasonable and sufficient to protect human health and the 
environment.
    Finally, the Agency requests comment on whether to allow a CESQG or 
SQG to accumulate hazardous waste either on a drip pad or in a 
containment building in compliance with 40 CFR part 265 subparts W and 
DD, respectively, as a result of an episodic event. As proposed, the 
Agency has focused on hazardous wastes accumulated in containers or 
tanks as a result of an episodic event since almost all CESQGs and SQGs 
accumulate waste in containers with a small percentage accumulated in 
tanks. However, there may be circumstances that lend themselves to a 
CESQG or SQG accumulating hazardous wastes on a drip pad or in a 
containment building.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

X. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 263--Standards Applicable to 
Transporters of Hazardous Waste

    The current regulations at Sec.  263.12 for transporters handling 
hazardous waste at a transfer facility for ten days or less state that 
the transporter is not subject to the storage regulations in 40 CFR 
parts 264, 265, 267, 268 and 270. In addition, the regulation 
stipulates that containers that hold hazardous waste must meet the 
provisions in Sec.  262.30 that reference DOT's packaging regulations 
at 49 CFR parts 173, 178, and 179.
    The Agency is proposing to change the marking and labeling 
requirements for transporters handling hazardous waste at transfer 
facilities, found at Sec.  263.12, to be consistent with the proposed 
changes for marking and

[[Page 57978]]

labeling conditions for containers for SQGs, for LQGs, and in 
SAAs.\117\ In addition to these proposed changes, EPA is also proposing 
to require that containers of hazardous waste at transfer facilities be 
labeled prior to being transported off site to a RCRA-designated 
facility with the applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) (EPA 
hazardous waste codes), which will help the TSDF receiving the 
hazardous waste comply with the LDR regulations in 40 CFR part 268. The 
Agency is proposing these modifications to ensure that hazardous wastes 
are appropriately labeled and marked throughout transportation to a 
RCRA-permitted or interim status TSDF or to another transfer facility.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \117\ EPA is proposing to move these provisions as a part of the 
reorganization of the generator regulations. They can be found in 
the proposed regulatory text at the following citations: SAAs--Sec.  
262.15(a)(1)(iv); SQGs--Sec.  262.16(b)(6)(i); and LQGs--Sec.  
262.17(a)(5).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Specifically, EPA is proposing that transporters storing hazardous 
wastes in containers at transfer facilities mark the containers with 
the following: (1) The words ``Hazardous Waste''; (2) the applicable 
EPA hazardous waste number(s) (EPA hazardous waste codes) in subparts C 
and D of part 261; (3) other words that identify the contents of the 
containers--examples may include, but are not limited to the name of 
the chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or 
the type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with DOT requirements 
at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D; and (4) an indication of the hazards of 
the contents of the container--examples of which include, but are not 
limited to, the applicable hazardous waste characteristic(s) (i.e., 
ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a hazard class label consistent 
with the DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a 
label consistent with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 
1920.1200; a chemical hazard label consistent with the NFPA code 704; 
or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' GHS. Transfer 
facilities also may use any other marking and labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that would alert workers and emergency 
responders to the nature of the hazards associated with the contents of 
the containers.
    A transfer facility may choose to use an appropriate DOT proper 
shipping name found in the 49 CFR 172.101 hazardous materials table to 
identify the contents of the container. That way, the transfer facility 
will fulfill EPA and DOT requirements simultaneously; however, EPA is 
not proposing to require the use of the DOT shipping names while the 
hazardous waste is accumulating on-site. We only suggest that the DOT 
shipping name may be one way that some generators may choose to 
identify the contents of the container.
    As previously discussed, the Agency believes providing this 
information on the container will alert workers and other handlers to 
the contents of the container and the potential hazards of the 
materials therein. This information increases the awareness of workers 
and others who might come into contact with the hazardous waste in the 
containers and reduces potential adverse impacts from container 
mismanagement. The Agency does not believe this proposed change will 
adversely impact transfer facility operations since similar marking and 
labeling standards are proposed for hazardous waste generators. One 
difference, however, is the inclusion of the EPA hazardous waste number 
in the list of labeling requirements. Although generators are not 
required to have the EPA hazardous waste number on the hazardous waste 
while accumulating it, we are proposing in this rulemaking that 
generators must include the EPA hazardous waste number on the label 
before transporting the hazardous waste off site, so when a container 
arrives at the transfer facility it should already have the EPA 
hazardous waste number on its label.
    Given that containers received by the transfer facility will 
already be marked and labeled by the generator, the Agency believes the 
additional burden on the transfer facility will be minimal. However, 
there may be situations where the transporter would be required to mark 
and label a container. One example of when a transfer facility would be 
required to mark and label its containers would be when it consolidates 
two containers with the same hazardous waste into a new container or 
when it is able to combine and consolidate two different hazardous 
wastes that are compatible with each other and are able to be 
subsequently managed consistently in compliance with the applicable 
regulations in parts 264, 265, 267, 268 and 270 of this chapter.
    The Agency requests comment on this proposed change, particularly 
the identification of any unintended problems from this requirement.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

XI. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Parts 264 and 265--Standards for 
Owners and Operators of Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, and 
Disposal Facilities and Interim Status Standards for Owners and 
Operators of Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, and Disposal 
Facilities

    The Agency is proposing to modify the biennial report requirements 
for facilities subject to 40 CFR 264.75 and 40 CFR 265.75 and the 
special requirements for ignitable and reactive wastes at 40 CFR 
265.176.

A. Proposed Changes to Biennial Reporting Requirements (40 CFR 264.75 
and 40 CFR 265.75)

    EPA is proposing to modify the regulations at Sec. Sec.  264.75 and 
265.75 to eliminate the list of specific data elements and to require 
the completion and submission of all data elements in the biennial 
report form (EPA form 8700-13).
    Section 264.75 currently requires that the biennial report include 
a specific list of data elements, including the name, address, and EPA 
ID number of the generator and each transporter and TSDF, the EPA 
hazardous waste number for each hazardous waste shipped off site, and a 
signed certification, among other things.
    Section 265.75 includes the above data elements as well as 
requiring monitoring data under Sec.  265.94(a)(2)(ii) and (iii), and 
(b)(2), where required.
    Similar to the approach EPA is proposing for the biennial reporting 
requirements for LQGs in Sec.  262.41, EPA believes removing the 
specific data elements in the regulations and replacing it with a 
requirement to complete and submit all the data elements required in 
the biennial report form will ensure that the regulations and forms 
remain consistent. For example, the existing regulations require 
closure cost information and, at Sec.  265.75(f), groundwater 
monitoring data under Sec.  265.94(a)(2)(ii) and (iii), and (b)(2) to 
be submitted as part of the biennial report; however, these data 
elements are not collected on EPA's current biennial reporting form 
8700-13.\118\ Thus, EPA believes removing this

[[Page 57979]]

list from the regulations will help TSDFs understand what EPA currently 
requires to be submitted as part of the biennial report. This approach 
eliminates the need to update the list of specific required data 
elements through rulemaking and reduces duplication with review and 
approval processes established under the PRA.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \118\ Closure cost estimates must be submitted in accordance 
with Sec.  264.142 or 265.142 which requires owners or operators 
using the financial test or corporate guarantee to update closure 
costs for inflation within 30 days after the close of the firm's 
fiscal year and before submission of updated information to the 
Regional Administrator under Sec.  264.143(f)(3) or 265.143(e)(3), 
respectively. Additionally, disposal facilities must submit the most 
recent post-closure cost estimate under Sec.  264.144 or 265.144, 
which requires owners or operators using the financial test or 
corporate guarantee to update for inflation within 30 days after the 
close of the firm's fiscal year and before the submission of updated 
information to the Regional Administrator. Groundwater monitoring 
data must be submitted in accordance with Sec.  265.94(b)(2), which 
requires the owner or operator to submit annually, until final 
closure of the facility, to the Regional Administrator a report 
containing the results of the groundwater quality assessment program 
no later than March 1 following each calendar year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA does not believe this change in any way affects the 
enforceability of the biennial report regulations. Owners and operators 
must complete and submit EPA form 8700-13.
    EPA also notes that some states develop their own state biennial 
report forms. EPA does not believe this proposed change would impact a 
state's ability to use their own biennial report forms or to collect 
more information than is required by the federal forms. Authorized 
states that use a different form for collecting biennial report 
information would simply refer to their authorized state form in their 
state regulations. Additionally, EPA is aware that some states use 
their state biennial report form as a vehicle for collecting closure 
cost data, required to be submitted under Sec.  264.142, and 
groundwater monitoring data, required to be submitted under Sec.  
264.97(j). Because the existing federal regulations already specify 
collection of this information, EPA would not consider states that 
continue collecting this data using their state authorized biennial 
report form to be more stringent than the federal program.
    Additionally, as discussed in section VIII.L of this preamble, EPA 
is proposing to modify the phrase ``prepare and submit,'' which is the 
existing language in Sec. Sec.  264.75 and 265.75, to ``complete and 
submit'' because the Agency believes that ``complete and submit'' more 
accurately reflects that facilities must complete all applicable 
elements of the biennial report forms.
    The Agency requests comment on these proposed changes to Sec. Sec.  
264.75 and 265.75. EPA also specifically requests whether commenters 
believe the proposed change to eliminate the specific data elements in 
these regulations will ease compliance and understanding of the current 
biennial reporting procedures.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

B. Special Requirements for Ignitable and Reactive Wastes

    Sections 262.34(a)(1)(i) and 262.34(d)(2) contain conditions for 
exemptions for LQGs and SQGs that accumulate hazardous waste on site 
for up to 90 or 180 days without a permit. These regulations both 
reference part 265 subpart I, which contains regulations for owners and 
operators of interim status hazardous waste facilities that store 
hazardous waste in containers.
    The LQG conditions in Sec.  262.34(a)(1)(i) reference Sec.  
265.176. Section 265.176 states that containers holding ignitable or 
reactive waste must be located at least 15 meters (50 feet) from the 
facility's property line. SQGs are not required to comply with this 
provision.
    In some cases, to comply with this standard for ignitable and 
reactive wastes, LQGs may modify their production feedstocks or 
production processes to generate a waste that is not an ignitable or 
reactive hazardous waste or reexamine the site's layout to identify 
alternative accumulation areas. However, there are some cases where it 
may not be physically possible to meet this standard, particularly if 
the width of the site is 100 feet or less or when the generator's 
operations have expanded such that it no longer has the ability to 
accumulate ignitable or reactive waste at least 15 meters (50 feet) 
from the site's property line. Insurance companies and local fire 
departments often assist hazardous waste generators in minimizing their 
environmental hazards and liabilities, but site dimensions may 
sometimes physically prevent a facility from complying with this 
condition.
    Therefore, the Agency is proposing to modify the regulatory text 
for generators to allow LQGs to apply for a site-specific waiver from 
their local fire department if they are unable to meet the hazardous 
waste accumulation property line condition.\119\ The proposed change 
would require LQGs to obtain a waiver from this provision, in writing, 
from local fire departments. LQGs would then be required to keep the 
written waiver in their records. In addition, as part of the 
reorganization of the generator regulations, discussed in section XIII 
of the preamble, we are also including this provision directly in the 
LQG accumulation regulations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \119\ The Agency is not proposing to modify Sec.  265.176 to 
allow interim status facilities to apply for a site-specific waiver 
from their local fire department if they are unable to meet the 
hazardous waste accumulation property line condition.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Because it is the local fire department that has the expertise to 
address this problem when it arises, EPA is relying on those local fire 
departments to work with the generators on any waivers that may be 
requested and on finding the most appropriate place on site to 
accumulate this hazardous waste.
    Section 265.176 contains a comment that references Sec.  265.17(a) 
and states that there are additional requirements in that section, 
which also contains provisions for ignitable, reactive, and 
incompatible wastes. The Agency is also proposing to incorporate the 
language from existing Sec.  265.17(a) into Sec.  262.17(a)(1)(vi)(B) 
of the generator regulations. EPA is proposing to replace the words 
``owner and operator'' with ``large quantity generator'' as part of 
this revision. By eliminating the cross-references, generators should 
be able to more easily discern what provisions are applicable and 
therefore should be better able to properly manage any ignitable or 
reactive hazardous waste.
    The Agency seeks comment on the proposed addition of this language 
to the generator conditions for exemption, as well as the change to 
allow LQGs to seek a waiver from the provision that containers holding 
hazardous waste must be located at least 15 meters (50 feet) from the 
property line. Specifically, EPA requests comment on whether this 
waiver option provides a sufficient level of protection for the 
facility and the surrounding community and whether generators would 
benefit from the increased flexibility. Additionally, EPA requests 
comment on whether it is appropriate to delegate the responsibility for 
issuing waivers in this case to the fire department and whether EPA 
should promulgate criteria that must be met as a condition of the 
waiver as part of this provision. For example, conditions may include a 
limit on the amount of ignitable or reactive hazardous waste that could 
be accumulated at any time or a requirement that the facility have 
certain technical controls, such as fire suppression devices or walls 
that meet a certain fire-resistance rating. Furthermore, EPA requests 
comment on whether the insertion of the language from Sec.  265.17(a) 
in this section is helpful.
    Finally, EPA requests comment on whether including a waiver to the 
provision for ignitable and reactive wastes would also be appropriate 
for interim status facilities or for permitted facilities in Sec. Sec.  
264.176 and 265.176.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is affected by 
the proposed

[[Page 57980]]

reorganization. The revised language would appear directly in Sec.  
262.17(a)(1)(vi) as a condition for exemption for LQGs, rather than 
being located in 40 CFR part 265 subpart I and referenced from the 
generator regulations. The reorganization is discussed in section XIII 
of this preamble.

XII. Proposed Revisions to 40 CFR Part 268--Land Disposal Restrictions

    The Agency is proposing to change the regulations on marking and 
labeling of containers by the owner/operator of a hazardous waste TSDF 
in Sec.  268.50 to be consistent with the proposed marking and labeling 
changes for LQGs, for SQGs, for SAAs, and for transfer facilities.\120\ 
EPA is also proposing to require that containers be labeled with the 
applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) (EPA hazardous waste codes), 
which help the TSDF comply with the LDR regulations. More specifically, 
the Agency is proposing to modify Sec.  268.50(a)(2)(i), which states 
that one of the requirements for storing hazardous wastes restricted 
from land disposal is that each container is clearly marked to identify 
its contents and the date each period of accumulation begins.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \120\ EPA is proposing to move some of these provisions as a 
part of the reorganization of the generator regulations. They can be 
found in the proposed regulatory text at the following citations: 
SAAs--Sec.  262.15(a)(1)(iv); SQGs--Sec.  262.16(b)(6)(i); and 
LQGs--Sec.  262.17(a)(5)(i).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Consistent with the other proposed changes that clarify the 
contents and hazards posed by the contents of hazardous waste in 
containers, the Agency is proposing to modify this language to state 
that each container must be clearly marked with (1) the words 
``Hazardous Waste''; (2) the applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) 
(EPA hazardous waste codes) in subparts C and D of part 261; (3) other 
words that identify the contents of the containers--examples may 
include, but are not limited to the name of the chemical(s), such as, 
``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the type or class of 
chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or ``halogenated organic 
solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping name and technical 
name markings used to comply with DOT requirements at 49 CFR part 172 
subpart D; (4) an indication of the hazards of the contents of the 
container (examples include, but are not limited to, the applicable 
hazardous waste characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, 
reactive, toxic); a hazard class label consistent with the Department 
of Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); 
a label consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health 
Administration Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a 
chemical hazard label consistent with the National Fire Protection 
Association code 704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United 
Nations' Globally Harmonized System); or any other marking or labeling 
commonly used nationwide in commerce that would alert workers and 
emergency responders to the nature of the hazards associated with the 
contents of the containers. The Agency will continue to require each 
container to be clearly marked with the date each period of 
accumulation begins.
    The Agency believes this proposed change will not adversely impact 
facility operations. In fact, because these are consistent with the 
requirements for marking and labeling that are proposed elsewhere in 
the regulations, we believe it will be easier for all those who manage 
the hazardous waste to know and comply with the consistent system of 
marking and labeling. In addition, a clear description of what material 
is in each container makes the facility safer for employees, first 
responders, and the public. The Agency requests comment on this 
proposed change.
    Effect of the Proposed Reorganization: This section is not affected 
by the proposed reorganization.

XIII. Proposed Reorganization of Hazardous Waste Generator Regulations

    EPA is proposing to reorganize the hazardous waste generator 
regulations to make them more user-friendly, which should facilitate 
better generator compliance. As part of the Agency's 2004 Program 
Evaluation of the hazardous waste generator program, the most frequent 
comment by stakeholders was to improve the user-friendliness of the 
regulations.
    Although many existing generators are familiar with the current 
regulations, every year many generators either enter the hazardous 
waste generator program or switch their generator category and 
therefore need to become familiar with their obligations. Similarly, an 
existing generator may need to examine a particular regulatory citation 
to ensure it is complying with the regulations correctly. The Agency 
believes that providing these generators with a user-friendly 
regulatory framework is an effective way to make the regulations easier 
to understand for those who need to comply with them.
    Therefore, in response to these concerns, EPA is proposing the 
following organizational changes:
    (1) Integrate the generator regulations in Sec.  261.5 into the 
generator regulations at part 262 by moving Sec.  261.5 (which contains 
the regulations applicable to CESQGs, counting of hazardous waste, and 
mixing of hazardous wastes with non-hazardous wastes);
    (2) Move the existing regulations at Sec.  262.34 for SQGs and LQGs 
into three new sections:
    (a) Satellite accumulation areas regulations for small and large 
quantity generators,
    (b) Conditions for exemption for an SQG that accumulates hazardous 
waste; and
    (c) Conditions for exemption for an LQG that accumulates hazardous 
waste;
    (3) Use subtitles in these new sections; and
    (4) Where reasonable, incorporate regulations that currently cross 
reference part 265 into these new sections.

A. Moving and Integrating Regulations from 40 CFR 261.5 into 40 CFR 
Part 262

    Currently, certain hazardous waste generator regulations are 
located in a different part of the regulations (40 CFR 261.5) from the 
rest of the generator regulations (40 CFR part 262). Stakeholders have 
stated that this current organization is confusing and not user 
friendly and have asked EPA to move the CESQG regulations in Sec.  
261.5 into part 262 so that all the generator regulations are in the 
same place. The Agency believes this reorganization would alleviate 
much confusion in the regulated community and, in the process, would 
foster greater compliance with the regulations.
    Specifically, EPA is proposing to move the definition of a CESQG 
that generates non-acute hazardous waste at Sec.  261.5(a) into the 
CESQG definition at Sec.  260.10, move Sec.  261.5(c) through (e) to a 
new section at Sec.  262.13 titled ``Generator category determination'' 
and move Sec.  261.5(b) and (f) through (j) to a new section at Sec.  
262.14 titled ``Conditions for exemption for a very small quantity 
generator.'' \121\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \121\ EPA is proposing to rename CESQGs to VSQGs (very small 
quantity generators). For a detailed discussion on this proposed 
change see section VI.B of this preamble.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Hazardous Waste Generation Quantity Limits for CESQGs (40 CFR 
261.5(a) and (e))
    Currently Sec.  261.5(a) sets forth the non-acute hazardous waste 
quantity limits for a CESQG and Sec.  261.5(e) provides quantity limits 
for generating acute hazardous waste and any residue or contaminated 
soil, waste, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill of

[[Page 57981]]

acute hazardous waste. As mentioned previously, EPA is now proposing to 
define each category of generator at Sec.  260.10, and, thus, under the 
reorganization, Sec.  261.5(a) and (e) will be incorporated into those 
definitions.
2. Determining Generator Category (40 CFR 261.5(c) and (d))
    Section 261.5(c) and (d) set forth the provisions for a hazardous 
waste generator to use in making its generator category determination. 
Every hazardous waste generator must determine its generator category 
so it knows what regulations are applicable to it. Since these 
regulations are applicable to all hazardous waste generators, it makes 
sense to move them into 40 CFR part 262 along with the other hazardous 
waste generator regulations. To further aid in making the regulations 
more user friendly, the Agency is proposing to make a new section for 
generator category determination at Sec.  262.13, titled ``Generator 
category determination.'' This new section is appropriate because, 
after a generator of a solid waste determines it has generated a 
hazardous waste (Sec.  262.11), the generator must then determine its 
hazardous waste generator category for the calendar month. Table 3--
Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for Determining 
Generator Category provides a summary of the crosswalk between the 
existing and proposed regulatory citations for determining a 
generator's category.

        Table 3--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for Determining Generator Category
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Regulation                  Existing citation        Proposed citation             Comment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Definitions of Generator Categories..  Sec.  Sec.   260.10,     Sec.   260.10..........  Current definition of
                                        261.5 and 262.34.                                 SQG in Sec.   260.10
                                                                                          is outdated. Current
                                                                                          usage of generator
                                                                                          categories is based on
                                                                                          Sec.  Sec.   261.5 and
                                                                                          262.34.
Hazardous Waste Limits for CESQGs....  Sec.   261.5(a) and (e)  Sec.   260.10..........  .......................
Purpose, Scope, and Applicability....  Sec.   262.10..........  Sec.   262.10..........  Not moved, but expanded
                                                                                          significantly.
Hazardous Waste Determination and      Sec.  Sec.   262.11 and  Sec.   262.11..........  Content in Sec.
 Recordkeeping.                         262.40(c).                                        262.11 is expanded and
                                                                                          Sec.   262.40(c) is
                                                                                          incorporated.
Generator Category Determination.....  Sec.   261.5(c)-(e)....  Sec.   262.13..........  .......................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3. CESQG Conditions for Exemption (40 CFR 261.5(b) and (f) through (j))
    Sections 261.5(b) and (f) through (j) establish a CESQG's 
conditions for exemption from regulation as an SQG or LQG. More 
specifically, these conditions for exemption establish the regulations 
for accumulating acute and non-acute hazardous waste, where the acute 
and non-acute hazardous waste may be managed off-site, and what the 
implications are when hazardous waste is mixed with solid waste or used 
oil. Since these regulations set forth conditions for exemption for 
CESQGs, just as the regulations found in existing Sec.  262.34 set 
forth conditions for exemption for SQGs and LQGs, EPA is proposing to 
move Sec.  261.5(b) and (f) through (j) to the newly created Sec.  
262.14 titled, ``Conditions for exemption for a very small quantity 
generator.'' All these regulations would then be located parallel to 
one another in part 262. Section 262.14 would also include the CESQG 
landfill ban for liquids. In addition, CESQGs who episodically generate 
higher amounts of hazardous waste could follow the newly proposed 
standards for episodic generation in part 262 subpart L in order to 
maintain their CESQG status while managing these higher amounts of 
hazardous waste. Table 4--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed 
Citations for CESQGs provides a crosswalk between the existing and 
proposed CESQG conditions for exemption.

                    Table 4--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for CESQGs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Regulation                  Existing citation        Proposed citation             Comment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CESQG Definition.....................  Sec.   261.5(a)........  Sec.   260.10..........  .......................
Conditions for Exemption for a Very    Sec.   261.5(b) and (f)  Sec.   262.14..........  .......................
 Small Quantity Generator.              through (j).
CESQG Consolidation by LQGs Within     N/A....................  Sec.                     Proposed new provision.
 the Same Company.                                               262.14(a)(3)(viii).
Landfill Ban for Liquids.............  Sec.   258.28..........  Sec.   262.14(d).......  .......................
Episodic Generation..................  N/A....................  Part 262 subpart L.....  Proposed new provision.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

B. SQG and LQG Conditions for Exemption (40 CFR 262.34)

    SQGs and LQGs may accumulate their hazardous waste on site without 
a permit or without having interim status provided they follow all of 
the conditions for exemption established in Sec.  262.34. Section 
262.34 can be difficult to navigate because the SQG and LQG conditions 
for exemption are intertwined and there are many references to sections 
in 40 CFR part 265. Therefore the Agency is proposing to break Sec.  
262.34 into three new sections at Sec. Sec.  262.15, 262.16 and 262.17. 
Section 262.15 would establish the conditions for exemption for SQGs 
and LQGs who wish to operate an SAA, Sec.  262.16 would establish 
conditions for exemption for SQGs, and Sec.  262.17 would establish the 
conditions for exemption for LQGs.
1. Satellite Accumulation Area Conditions for Exemption for SQGs and 
LQGs (40 CFR 262.15)
    Many generators use an SAA at their sites. These areas allow 
generators to accumulate hazardous waste near the point of generation, 
which provides for

[[Page 57982]]

efficiencies and greater safety in the handling of hazardous waste. 
When the generator has accumulated 55 gallons of hazardous waste (or 
one quart of acutely hazardous waste) in the SAA, the generator must 
then move the hazardous waste to the 90- or 180-day central 
accumulation area within three days. Currently the conditions for 
exemption for operating an SAA are located at Sec.  262.34(c). The 
location of this provision in the regulations creates confusion as to 
whether it applies to LQGs only or both SQGs and LQGs because it is 
located between the hazardous waste accumulation conditions for LQGs 
and those for SQGs. Therefore, the Agency is proposing to move 40 CFR 
262.34(c) into its own section at Sec.  262.15 titled, ``Satellite 
accumulation area regulations for small and large quantity 
generators.''
    Additionally, the Agency is proposing to duplicate Sec. Sec.  
265.171, 265.172 and 265.173(a) (which are currently referenced from 
Sec.  262.34(c)(1)(i)) into Sec.  262.15 in order to eliminate cross-
referencing and improve the user friendliness of the regulations. Table 
5--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for SAAs 
provides a summary of the crosswalk between existing and proposed 
regulations for SAAs.

 Table 5--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for SAAs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Regulation              Existing citation   Proposed citation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Satellite Accumulation Area       Sec.   262.34(c)..  Sec.   262.15.
 Provisions.
Selected Part 265 Subpart I       Sec.   265.171....  Sec.
 Provisions.                                           262.15(a)(1)(i).
Selected Part 265 Subpart I       Sec.   265.172....  Sec.
 Provisions.                                           262.15(a)(1)(ii).
Selected Part 265 Subpart I       Sec.   265.173(a).  Sec.
 Provisions.                                           262.15(a)(1)(iii)
                                                       .
------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. Conditions for Exemption for an SQG Accumulating Hazardous Waste 
(Sec.  262.16)
    As previously mentioned, the Agency is proposing to create 40 CFR 
262.16 titled, ``Conditions for exemption for a small quantity 
generator that accumulates hazardous waste.'' This reorganization would 
move Sec.  262.34(d) through (f) and (m) into Sec.  262.16. 
Specifically, the Agency proposes to move the bulk of Sec.  262.34(d) 
to Sec.  262.16(b),\122\ move Sec.  262.34(e) to Sec.  262.16(d), move 
Sec.  262.34(f) to Sec.  262.16(e) and move Sec.  262.34(m) to Sec.  
262.16(f). Paragraph (c) of Sec.  262.16, which covers the mixing of 
hazardous waste, is a new paragraph that EPA is proposing to add in 
this rulemaking.\123\ EPA is also proposing to add subtitles and 
eliminate several cross-references to 40 CFR part 265 in order to make 
the regulations easier to navigate.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \122\ The portions of Sec.  262.34(d) that state what the 
generation limits are for this category of generator would be moved 
to the definition of ``small quantity generator'' in Sec.  262.10.
    \123\ For a detailed discussion of this proposed addition please 
see section VII.B of this preamble.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    a. Addition of subtitles. EPA is proposing to add subtitles to 
Sec.  262.16 to highlight to the reader the topic of each section or 
paragraph. Every subtitle is italicized after the regulatory citation. 
For example Sec.  262.16(b)(2) addresses ``Accumulation in 
Containers.''
    b. Incorporating 40 CFR part 265 subpart I, Sec.  265.201, and part 
265 subpart C into 40 CFR 262.16. EPA is proposing to integrate three 
sections of 40 CFR part 265--subpart I, Sec.  265.201 and subpart C--
into Sec.  262.16. First, at Sec.  262.34(d)(2), the regulations state 
an SQG must comply with subpart I of part 265 except for Sec. Sec.  
265.176 and 265.178. Therefore, EPA is proposing to incorporate the 
text of the appropriate subpart I regulations at Sec.  262.16(b)(2). 
Second, at Sec.  262.34(d)(3) the regulation states that an SQG must 
comply with Sec.  265.201 in subpart J when using a tank. Thus, EPA is 
proposing to incorporate the text of all of Sec.  265.201 except for 
paragraph (a) at Sec.  262.16(b)(3). Paragraph (a) of Sec.  265.201 is 
not necessary because it describes what is already stated in Sec.  
262.16--the requirements for an SQG accumulating hazardous waste in a 
tank for less than 180 days and accumulating no more than 6,000 kg on 
site at any time. Third Sec.  262.34(d)(4) states an SQG must comply 
with subpart C of part 265. Therefore, EPA is proposing to incorporate 
the text of subpart C--Preparedness and Prevention--at Sec.  
262.16(b)(8).
    c. Other part 262 provisions for SQGs. In addition, part 262 
subpart L would contain the newly proposed standards for SQGs who 
episodically generate higher amounts of hazardous waste to maintain 
their designation as SQGs during these episodic events. Also, Sec.  
262.35 would include the landfill ban for liquids that applies to SQGs 
and LQGs.
    Table 6--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for 
SQGs provides a summary of changes between the existing and proposed 
citations for SQGs.

                     Table 6--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for SQGs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Regulation                  Existing citation        Proposed citation             Comment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Definition of Small Quantity           Sec.   262.34(d).......  Sec.   260.10..........  .......................
 Generator.
Accumulation Time Limit..............  Sec.   262.34(d).......  Sec.   262.16(b).......  .......................
Accumulation Limit...................  Sec.   262.34(d)(1) and  Sec.   262.16(a) and     .......................
                                        (f).                     (e).
Accumulation in Containers...........  Sec.   262.34(d)(2)      Sec.   262.16(b)(2)....  .......................
                                        references part 265
                                        subpart I.
Accumulation in Tanks................  Sec.   262.34(d)(3)      Sec.   262.16(b)(3)....  .......................
                                        references part 265
                                        subpart J.
Marking of Tanks and Containers......  Sec.   262.34(d)(4)      Sec.   262.16(b)(6)....  .......................
                                        references Sec.
                                        262.34(a)(2) and (3).
Preparedness and Prevention..........  Sec.   262.34(d)(4)      Sec.   262.16(b)(8) and  .......................
                                        references part 265      (9).
                                        subpart C and Sec.
                                        262.34(d)(5).
Land Disposal Restrictions...........  Sec.   262.34(d)(4)      Sec.   262.16(b)(7)....  .......................
                                        references part 268.

[[Page 57983]]

 
Transporting Over 200 Miles..........  Sec.   262.34(e).......  Sec.   262.16(d).......  .......................
Accumulation Time Limit Extension....  Sec.   262.34(f).......  Sec.   262.16(e).......  .......................
Episodic Generation..................  N/A....................  Part 262 subpart L.....  Proposed new provision.
Landfill Ban for Liquids.............  Sec.   258.28..........  Sec.   262.35..........  .......................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3. Conditions for Exemption for an LQG Accumulating Hazardous Waste (40 
CFR 262.17)
    As previously mentioned the Agency is proposing to create 40 CFR 
262.17 titled, ``Conditions for exemption for a large quantity 
generator that accumulates hazardous waste.'' The Agency is proposing 
to move Sec.  262.34(a), (b), (g) through (i) and (m) into Sec.  
262.17. Specifically, the Agency is proposing to move Sec.  262.34(a) 
to Sec.  262.17(a), move Sec.  262.34(b) to Sec.  262.17(b), move Sec.  
262.34(g) to Sec.  262.17(c), move Sec.  262.34(h) to Sec.  262.17(d), 
move Sec.  262.34(i) to Sec.  262.17(e), and move Sec.  262.34(m) to 
Sec.  262.16(g). EPA is additionally proposing to delete paragraphs (j) 
through (l), which deal with Performance Track, since the program is no 
longer in operation.\124\ Paragraph (f) of Sec.  262.17, which deals 
with the mixing of hazardous waste, is a new paragraph being proposed 
in this rulemaking.\125\ EPA is also proposing to add subtitles and 
eliminate some cross-references to part 265 in order to make the 
regulations easier to navigate.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \124\ For a detailed discussion of this proposed deletion please 
see section VIII.K of this preamble.
    \125\ For a detailed discussion of this proposed addition please 
see section VII.A.2 of this preamble.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    a. Addition of subtitles. EPA is proposing to add subtitles to 
Sec.  262.17 to highlight to the reader the central concept addressed 
by each section or paragraph. Every subtitle is italicized after the 
regulatory citation. For example Sec.  262.17(a)(1) addresses 
``accumulation in containers.''
    b. Incorporating 40 CFR part 265 subpart I into 40 CFR 262.17. EPA 
is proposing to incorporate the 40 CFR part 265 subpart I regulations, 
which are currently referenced at Sec.  262.34(a)(1)(i), into the 
proposed Sec.  262.17(a)(1). EPA also considered incorporating the text 
of other subparts of part 265 that contain technical standards for LQGs 
and that are currently referenced in Sec.  262.34 into the new section 
Sec.  262.17 (i.e., part 265 subparts J, W, AA, BB, and CC), but 
ultimately decided not to incorporate these due to the length of these 
subparts.
    Section 262.35 would also include the landfill ban for liquids that 
applies to SQGs and LQGs. EPA requests comment on the proposed changes.
    c. Emergency planning and procedures regulations for LQGs in part 
265 subpart M. EPA is proposing to remove the reference to part 265 
subparts C and D for the preparedness, prevention, and emergency 
procedure regulations for LQGs and instead incorporate those 
regulations in part 262 with the other generator regulations. However, 
due to the length of these subparts, rather than copying the text of 
these subparts to Sec.  262.17, EPA is proposing to copy these into a 
new subpart M in part 262. EPA believes that including these provisions 
in part 262, along with the rest of the generator regulations, will 
make the regulations easier to navigate. EPA requests comment on this 
proposed change.
    d. Other part 262 provisions for LQGs. In addition, Sec.  262.17(g) 
would contain the newly proposed standards for LQGs who accept and 
consolidate hazardous waste from CESQGs. Also, Sec.  262.35 would 
include the landfill ban for liquids that applies to SQGs and LQGs.
    Table 7--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for 
LQGs provides a summary of changes between the existing and proposed 
citations for LQGs.

                     Table 7--Crosswalk of Existing Citations to Proposed Citations for LQGs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Regulation                  Existing citation        Proposed citation             Comment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Definition of Large Quantity           N/A....................  Sec.   260.10..........  .......................
 Generator.
Accumulation Time Limit..............  Sec.   262.34(a).......  Sec.   262.17(a).......  .......................
Accumulation in Containers...........  Sec.   262.34(a)(1)(i)   Sec.   262.17(a)(1)....  There is still a cross-
                                        references part 265     (Sec.   262.17(a)(1)      reference to part 265
                                        subparts I, AA, BB,      also references part     subparts AA, BB, and
                                        and CC.                  265 subparts AA, BB,     CC because of the
                                                                 CC).                     length of these
                                                                                          regulations.
Accumulation in Tanks................  Sec.   262.34(a)(1)(ii)  Sec.   262.17(a)(2)      There is still a
                                        references part 265      references part 265      reference to part 265
                                        subparts J, AA, BB,      subparts J, AA, BB, CC.  because of the length
                                        and CC.                                           of these regulations.
Accumulation on Drip Pads............  Sec.                     Sec.   262.17(a)(3)....  Recordkeeping
                                        262.34(a)(1)(iii).      (Sec.   262.17(a)(3)      provisions move to
                                       (Sec.                     also references part     part 262.17 and the
                                        262.34(a)(1)(iii) also   265 subpart W).          extensive technical
                                        references part 265                               standards remain in
                                        subpart W).                                       part 265.
Accumulation in Containment Buildings  Sec.   262.34(a)(1)(iv)  Sec.   262.17(a)(4)....  Recordkeeping
                                       (Sec.                    (Sec.   262.17(a)(4)      provisions move to
                                        262.34(a)(1)(iv) also    also references part     part 262.17 and the
                                        references part 265      265 subpart DD).         extensive technical
                                        subpart DD).                                      standards remain in
                                                                                          part 265.
Marking and Labeling.................  Sec.   262.34(a)(2) and  Sec.   262.17(a)(5)....  .......................
                                        (3).

[[Page 57984]]

 
Preparedness, Prevention, and          Sec.   262.34(a)(4)      Sec.   262.17(a)(6)      Cross-references remain
 Emergency Procedures.                  references part 265      references part 262      but to a subpart of
                                        subparts C and D.        subpart M.               the generator
                                                                                          regulations.
Personnel Training...................  Sec.   262.34(a)(4)....  Sec.   262.17(a)(7)....  .......................
Land Disposal Restrictions...........  Sec.   262.34(a)(4)      Sec.   262.17(a)(6)(ii)  .......................
                                        references applicable
                                        parts of part 268.
Extension of Accumulation Times......  Sec.   262.34(b).......  Sec.   262.17(b).......  .......................
Accumulation of F006.................  Sec.   262.34(g)         Sec.   262.17(c)         .......................
                                        through (i).             through (e).
Accepting waste from CESQGs to         N/A....................  Sec.   262.17(g).......  Proposed new provision.
 consolidate before sending to TSDF.
Rejected Loads.......................  Sec.   262.34(m).......  Sec.   262.17(h).......  .......................
Landfill Ban for Liquids.............  Sec.   258.28..........  Sec.   262.35..........  .......................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA requests comment on the proposed reorganization to the 
hazardous waste generator regulations and, in particular, on whether 
the proposed changes would improve the user friendliness and utility of 
the regulations.

C. EPA Identification Number (40 CFR 262.12)

    In the interest in keeping the generator regulations in a logical 
order, EPA is proposing to move existing Sec.  262.12--EPA 
identification number--to Sec.  262.18. Section 262.12 would then be 
reserved. EPA believes this will improve the flow of the hazardous 
waste generator regulations as it places the section addressing EPA 
identification number after Sec.  262.13, which addresses how a 
generator determines its generator category. This proposed sequence is 
appropriate because a hazardous waste generator must first determine 
what generator category it belongs to in order to determine which 
regulations--including the requirement to obtain an EPA ID number--it 
must comply with. (For example, SQGs and LQGs must obtain an EPA 
identification number, but a CESQG does not).
    EPA is requesting comment on these proposed changes.

XIV. Technical Corrections and Conforming Changes to 40 CFR Parts 260 
through 265, 270, 273, and 279

    The Agency is also proposing a number of technical corrections and 
conforming changes to the hazardous waste generator regulations. This 
proposed rule eliminates the regulatory text for discontinued programs, 
identifies areas where conforming changes are necessary, updates 
existing regulatory text to account for new programs, improves the 
readability of certain paragraphs, and corrects typographical errors. 
Specifically, the Agency is proposing the following changes, in order 
of the existing regulations:
    (1) Revise Sec.  260.3, which currently reads, ``As used in parts 
260 through 265 and 268 of this chapter.'' This text fails to account 
for additional parts of the regulations that were promulgated after 
1986, such as parts 266, 267, and 270 through 273. The Agency is 
proposing to revise this to read, ``As used in parts 260 through 273 of 
this chapter.''
    (2) Modify the definitions of ``Treatability Study,'' ``Universal 
Waste Handler,'' ``Universal Waste Transporter'' in Sec.  260.10 to 
only capitalize the first word (e.g., ``Universal'') in order to match 
the formatting in the rest of this section.
    (3) Remove the closed parenthesis after ``(e.g.,)'' from Sec.  
261.1(c)(6).
    (4) Improve the readability of Sec.  261.4(a)(7), which currently 
reads, ``Spent sulfuric acid used to produce virgin sulfuric acid, 
unless it is accumulated speculatively as defined in Sec.  261.1(c) of 
this chapter.'' The Agency is proposing to revise the language to read 
``Spent sulfuric acid used to produce virgin sulfuric acid provided it 
is not accumulated speculatively as defined in Sec.  261.1(c) of this 
chapter.''
    (5) Make conforming changes to citations that reference Sec.  261.5 
to reflect EPA's proposal to move these regulations. The citations 
where references to Sec.  261.5 are to be revised include all the 
following: Sec. Sec.  262.10(b), 262.10(l)(2), 262.201(b), 262.204(a), 
262.210(b)(3), 262.210(d)(2), 262.211(e)(3), 262.213(a)(2), 
262.213(a)(3), 262.213(b)(2), 262.216(b), 264.1(g)(1), 268.1(e)(1), 
270.1(c)(2)(iii), and 279.10(b)(3). In Sec.  261.33(e) and (f), EPA is 
proposing to altogether remove the references to Sec. Sec.  261.5(e) 
and 261.5(a) and (g), respectively, because the quantity limits for 
hazardous wastes are contained in EPA's proposed definitions for very 
small quantity generator, small quantity generator, and large quantity 
generator.
    (6) Replace the word ``waste'' with ``water'' in Sec.  261.5(e)(2), 
which reads, ``A total of 100 kg of any residue or contaminated soil, 
waste, or other debris resulting from the clean-up of a spill, into or 
on any land or water. . . .'' Prior to 1985, the word ``waste'' was 
``water'' and the Agency is unable to determine why this change 
occurred. (In the proposed reorganization, this language is moved to 
Sec.  260.10 and is contained in the definitions of large quantity 
generator, small quantity generator and very small quantity generator.)
    (7) Revise Sec.  261.420 to clarify that the requirement in Sec.  
261.411(c) that all employees be familiar with proper waste handling 
and emergency procedures relevant to their responsibilities applies to 
facilities that generate or accumulate more than 6,000 kg of hazardous 
materials as well as to facilities that generate or accumulate less 
than that amount.
    (8) Remove Notes 1 and 2 from Sec.  262.10. Note 1 states that the 
provisions of Sec.  262.34 are applicable to the on-site accumulation 
of hazardous waste by generators. Therefore, the provisions of Sec.  
262.34 only apply to owners or operators who are shipping hazardous 
waste which they generated at that facility. Note 2 states that a 
generator who treats, stores, or disposes of hazardous waste on site 
must comply with the applicable standards and permit requirements set 
forth in 40 CFR parts 264, 265, 266, 268, and 270. These notes are no 
longer necessary should EPA finalize the changes in this proposed rule, 
which include replacing Sec.  262.34 with a new reorganization of the 
regulations that address Note 1and proposing regulations in Sec.  
262.10 that address Note 2.
    (9) Remove the extra period in the last line of the paragraph at 
Sec.  262.10(l).

[[Page 57985]]

    (10) Make conforming changes to sections that reference Sec.  
262.34 to reflect EPA's proposal to move these regulations. The 
citations where references to Sec.  262.34 are to be revised include 
the following: Sec. Sec.  262.10(l)(1), 262.201(a), 262.201(a), 
262.216(a), 264.1(g)(3), 264.71(c), 264.1030(b)(2), 264.1050(b)(2), 
265.1(c)(7), 265.71(c), 265.1030(b)(2) and (b)(3), 268.7(a)(5) and 
270.1(c)(2)(i).
    (11) Make conforming change to remove and reserve Sec.  262.40(c) 
because this section (regarding records for waste determinations) is 
proposed to move to Sec.  262.11.
    (12) Correct the statutory citation at Sec.  262.43 that currently 
refers to sections 2002(a) and 3002(6) of the Act. The reference to 
3002(6) should be to 3002(a)(6). Additionally, the word ``he'' is 
removed in order to be gender neutral.
    (13) Remove references to Project XL programs that have been 
discontinued. These include the New York State Public Utilities Project 
XL program at subpart I of 40 CFR part 262 and the University 
Laboratories Project XL program at subpart J of 40 CFR part 262. We 
have also removed and reserved the reference at Sec.  262.10(j) to the 
University Laboratories Project XL.
    (14) Make two conforming changes to the definition of ``central 
accumulation area'' in Sec.  262.200 in subpart K. We are proposing to 
move this definition from this location to Sec.  260.10 with the 
following revisions. First, because of the reorganization of the 
regulations in 40 CFR part 262, we are proposing to change the 
references to the applicable regulations for the central accumulation 
areas that are used in the definition of central accumulation area in 
Sec.  262.200. For LQGs, we are proposing that the reference to Sec.  
262.34(a) be changed to Sec.  262.17 and for SQGs, we are proposing 
that the reference to Sec.  262.34(d) through (f) be changed to Sec.  
262.16. Second, we are proposing to remove the reference to Performance 
Track in the definition of ``central accumulation area'' in Sec.  
262.200 of subpart K because the Performance Track program has been 
terminated (74 FR 22741; May 14, 2009). Both of these conforming 
changes are reflected in the proposed definition of ``central 
accumulation area'' being added in Sec.  260.10.
    (15) Make conforming changes to citations that use the term 
``conditionally exempt small quantity generator'' to reflect EPA's 
proposed change to the term ``very small quantity generator.'' The 
citations where ``conditionally exempt small quantity generator'' is to 
be replaced with ``very small quantity generator'' include: Sec. Sec.  
262.200, 262.201(b), 262.202(b), 262.203(a), 262.203(b)(2), 262.204(a), 
262.209(b), 262.210(d)(2), 262.213(a)(3), 268.1(e)(1), 
270.1(c)(2)(iii), 273.8, 273.8(a)(2), 273.81(b), 279.10(b)(3).
    (16) Improve the readability of Sec.  264.170, which currently 
reads, ``The regulations in this subpart apply to owners and operators 
of all hazardous waste facilities that store containers of hazardous 
waste. . . .'' The Agency is proposing to revise this language to read, 
``The regulations in this subpart apply to owners and operators of all 
hazardous waste facilities that store hazardous waste in containers. . 
. .''
    (17) Improve the readability of the first sentence in Sec.  
264.191(a), which currently reads, ``For each existing tank system. . . 
. the owner or operator must determine that the tank system is not 
leaking or is unfit for use.'' The Agency is proposing to revise this 
language to read, ``For each existing tank system . . . the owner or 
operator must determine that the tank system is not leaking or is fit 
for use.''
    (18) Improve the readability of Sec.  265.1(c)(7), which currently 
reads, ``A generator accumulating waste on-site in compliance with 
Sec.  262.34 of this chapter, except to the extent the requirements are 
included in Sec.  262.34 of this chapter.'' The Agency is proposing to 
revise the sentence to read, ``A generator accumulating waste on site 
except to the extent the requirements are included in Sec. Sec.  
262.16, and 262.17 of this chapter.''
    (19) Correct the list of Federal Register notices in Sec.  265.54 
to be consistent with the list of references in Sec.  264.54. The 
reference to 53 FR 37935, September 28, 1988, is missing from Sec.  
265.54.
    (20) Add to Sec.  265.111(c) a missing regulatory citation to Sec.  
265.445 applicable to drip pads. Section 265.111(c) would then read, 
``Complies with the closure requirements of this subpart, including, 
but not limited to, the requirements of Sec. Sec.  265.197, 265.228, 
265.258, 265.280, 265.310, 265.351, 265.381, 265.404, 265.445, and 
265.1102.''
    (21) Add to Sec.  265.114 a missing regulatory citation to Sec.  
265.445 applicable to drip pads and Sec.  265.1102 applicable to 
containment buildings. Section 265.114 would then read, ``During the 
partial and final closure periods, all contaminated equipment, 
structures and soil must be properly disposed of, or decontaminated 
unless specified otherwise in Sec. Sec.  265.197, 265.228, 265.445, 
265.258, 265.280, 265.310 or 265.1102. . . .''
    (22) Make a conforming change to remove and reserve Sec.  265.201 
(Special requirements for generators of between 100 and 1,000 kg/mo 
that accumulate hazardous waste in tanks). EPA is proposing to move 
this section into proposed Sec.  262.16.
    (23) Add a missing reference to 40 CFR part 268 in Sec.  
270.1(a)(3), which currently reads, ``The RCRA permit program. . . . in 
40 CFR parts 264, 266, and 267.'' Therefore, the Agency is revising 
this to read, ``The RCRA permit program . . . in 40 CFR parts 264, 266, 
267, and 268.''

XV. Request for Comment on Use of Electronic Tools to Streamline 
Hazardous Waste Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

    As part of this proposed rule, the Agency is also exploring the 
feasibility of using electronic tools to streamline hazardous waste 
reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Two examples previously 
discussed include requesting comment on an electronic hazardous waste 
determination decision tool and development of an electronic 
application containing information from the executive summaries of 
contingency plans that emergency responders can use in responding to an 
emergency.
    Information technology can be an important step toward improving 
RCRA implementation. Many aspects of our lives can currently be managed 
electronically. We bank from home, send pictures from phones, and track 
packages across the country from our desks. Yet, much of the 
information reported to EPA and states by generators is still submitted 
on paper, which requires government staff or contractors to manually 
enter the data into federal and state data systems. Delays in data 
processing can cause important information to go unnoticed. In 
addition, errors introduced through manual data entry can require 
aggravating and time-consuming correction processes by both regulated 
entities and the government.
    Use of electronic tools can provide the regulated community, 
regulators, and the public with more accurate, complete, and timely 
information on regulated activities, pollution, and compliance. 
Software that allows for self-correction by flagging potential errors, 
as is done by EPA's Toxics Release Inventory--Made Easy web tool or the 
Greenhouse Gas Reporting system, can even help prevent mistakes before 
they happen, saving both regulated entities and regulators time and 
money. Electronic reporting also creates greater transparency as 
greater information accessibility can inspire better compliance by 
facilities.

[[Page 57986]]

    Electronic reporting, in this context, is not simply emailing files 
to the government. Rather, it would be a system that begins with an 
electronic ``smart'' form or web tool to guide the regulated entity 
thru recordkeeping and reporting processes, such as waste 
determinations. The system would also include data standards, identity 
proofing, and a government database to receive data. Error prevention 
and compliance assistance could be integrated into the reporting tool. 
For example, forms can be configured to self-populate with data from 
prior forms (e.g., names and addresses), to question entries that 
appear erroneous (e.g., entries an order of magnitude or more above or 
below data from prior years or above or below reasonable levels) and to 
prevent submission before required data fields are completed.
    The Agency believes electronic tools have the potential to greatly 
assist generators in complying with the existing and proposed hazardous 
waste regulations. For example, EPA believes that electronic tools 
could help generators make more accurate hazardous waste 
determinations. As previously discussed, an app could be used as a 
decision support tool to help guide generators through the hazardous 
waste determination process for each waste stream they generate. This 
tool could walk generators through a series of question and answer 
steps, identify relevant sources in making the determination, 
electronically generate and store all of the associated data and 
records that generators may be required to maintain, and provide 
assistance on proper management of the identified wastes.
    Other examples include using electronic tools to file notifications 
required under the rule, such as notifications for episodic generators, 
for LQGs that desire to take advantage of consolidating waste from 
CESQGs that are within the same company, and for generators that close 
a unit that accumulated hazardous waste. In this case, the electronic 
tools could be useful in submitting required reports, and in 
electronically generating, storing, and filing all reports.
    Other areas of the RCRA regulations where electronic tools may 
assist with compliance include the following:

 Determining monthly generator category;
 Maintaining records of shipments;
 Maintaining contingency planning and emergency procedures 
recordkeeping and reporting requirements;
 Maintaining inventory logs for documenting accumulation time 
in tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings; and
 Maintaining personnel training documents and records.

    EPA believes the use of electronic tools would help hazardous waste 
generators improve and maintain compliance with the RCRA regulations, 
thereby reducing violations and increasing environmental benefits. EPA 
also believes the costs of receiving and evaluating reports from 
generators could be greatly reduced for EPA and state/tribal agencies. 
For example, when the Toxics Release inventory switched from paper 
reporting to e-reporting, costs of managing the data went down by 99% 
and accuracy was increased.
    EPA is not aware of any existing electronic tools that would 
specifically assist generators with meeting the RCRA regulatory 
requirements. However, EPA did identify a variety of state and academic 
internet-based hazardous waste determination tools and workbooks (as 
discussed in section VIII.B.8.).
    EPA is considering a range of electronic reporting options. The 
Agency may explore developing certain tools for use by the regulated 
community or may invite third-party vendors to provide such tools. The 
latter option could be similar to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) 
model for electronic tax preparation. The IRS model uses third-party 
software providers for tax data collection and transmission (e.g., 
TurboTax, TaxACT, or others) from private citizens and businesses. 
Under this option, the Agency would not purchase services from any 
provider. All financial transactions would be between the providers and 
members of the regulated community. EPA would specify the required data 
for collection and the requirements necessary for exchanging data 
(e.g., data delivery protocols, standards, guidelines, and procedures 
compliant with EPA's Cross-Media Electronic Reporting Regulation 
(CROMERR) (see 40 CFR part 3)).
    EPA welcomes public comment on specific reports and data types that 
could be reported electronically if the Agency were to move forward 
with exploring electronic reporting, including what the quality 
assurance and quality control procedures should be with respect to data 
timeliness, accuracy, completeness, and consistency. EPA also asks for 
comment on which reports commenters think should be highest priority 
for electronic reporting. EPA solicits comment on the option of 
allowing software vendors to offer their clients federal electronic 
reporting services compliant with the final rule and on potential 
methods for determining whether third-party software vendors meet the 
minimum federal electronic data requirements. EPA would need to certify 
or approve the methods used by the software to authenticate, encrypt, 
and possibly send compliance monitoring and other data. EPA would also 
like to hear from authorized RCRA programs that have experience in 
implementing electronic reporting, especially their experience with 
phasing in implementation. EPA also requests comment on whether 
electronic tools should be provided by EPA and/or states and tribes.

XVI. Enforceability

    Persons that generate hazardous waste must comply with all the 
applicable independent requirements of the RCRA hazardous waste 
regulations, unless they obtain a conditional exemption from those 
requirements, provided by Sec.  262.14 (formerly Sec.  261.5), or by 
Sec.  262.15, 262.16, or 262.17 (formerly all contained in Sec.  
262.34), or by Sec.  262.70. If a person violates independent 
requirements or fails conditions for exemption, EPA may bring an 
enforcement action under section 3008 of RCRA for violations of the 
independent requirements. Where a generator does not comply with 
conditions for an exemption and is therefore no longer exempt, the 
enforcement action will allege violations of those independent 
requirements from which the generator was attempting to remain exempt. 
States may choose to enforce against violations of state hazardous 
waste requirements under state authorities.
    As with any violation, EPA and authorized states have enforcement 
mechanisms available that range in severity. In addition, EPA and 
authorized states have flexibility in applying these mechanisms to the 
various responsible parties as appropriate to the specific 
circumstances. Some of the enforcement mechanisms include sending a 
notice of violation, ordering compliance, ordering that the operations 
cease, or assessing penalties as appropriate. Nothing in this proposal 
affects any of these enforcement mechanisms EPA or the states may 
utilize nor the manner in which enforcement cases will be initiated or 
pursued.

XVII. State Authorization

A. Applicability of Rules in Authorized States

    Under section 3006 of RCRA, EPA may authorize states to administer 
the

[[Page 57987]]

RCRA Subtitle C hazardous waste program. Following authorization, the 
authorized state program operates in lieu of the federal regulations. 
EPA retains enforcement authority to enforce the authorized state 
Subtitle C program, although authorized states have primary enforcement 
authority. EPA also retains its authority under RCRA sections 3007, 
3008, 3013, and 7003. The standards and requirements for state 
authorizations are found at 40 CFR part 271.
    Prior to enactment of the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 
1984 (HSWA), a state with final RCRA authorization administered its 
hazardous waste program entirely in lieu of EPA administering the 
federal program in that state. EPA did not issue permits for any 
facilities in that state, since the state was now authorized to issue 
RCRA permits. When new, more stringent federal requirements were 
promulgated, the state was obligated to enact equivalent authorities 
within specified time frames. However, the new requirements did not 
take effect in an authorized state until the state adopted the 
equivalent state requirements.
    In contrast, under RCRA section 3006(g) (42 U.S.C. 6926(g)), which 
was added by HSWA, new requirements and prohibitions imposed under HSWA 
authority take effect in authorized states at the same time that they 
take effect in unauthorized states. While states must still adopt HSWA 
related provisions as state law to retain authorization, EPA implements 
the HSWA provisions in authorized states, including the issuance of any 
permits pertaining to HSWA requirements, until the state is granted 
authorization to do so.
    Authorized states are required to modify their programs only when 
EPA promulgates federal requirements that are more stringent or broader 
in scope than existing federal requirements.\126\ RCRA section 3009 
allows the states to impose standards more stringent than those in the 
federal program (see 40 CFR 271.1). Therefore, authorized states may, 
but are not required to, adopt federal regulations, both HSWA and non-
HSWA, that are considered less stringent than previous federal 
regulations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \126\ EPA notes that decisions regarding whether a state rule is 
more stringent or broader in scope than the federal program are made 
when the Agency authorizes state programs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

B. Effect on State Authorization of Proposed Rule

    This notice proposes regulations that amend certain sections of the 
hazardous waste generator regulations in 40 CFR parts 260 through 265, 
268, 270, 273, and 279. These regulations were promulgated under the 
authority of sections 2002, 3001, 3002, 3003, 3004, 3007, and 3010 of 
RCRA). This notice proposes changes to the RCRA Subtitle C program 
under non-HSWA authority.
    Thus, the standards, if finalized, would be applicable on the 
effective date only in those states that do not have final 
authorization of their base RCRA programs. Moreover, authorized states 
are required to modify their programs only when EPA promulgates federal 
regulations that are more stringent or broader in scope than the 
authorized state regulations. For those changes that are less 
stringent, states are not required to modify their programs. This is a 
result of section 3009 of RCRA, which allows states to impose more 
stringent regulations than the federal program.
    Several of the revisions to the proposed hazardous waste generator 
regulations are more stringent than those promulgated in various rules 
that went into effect when the RCRA hazardous waste Regulations were 
first initiated (e.g., 1980-1986). These include the following: (1) 
requiring both SQGs and LQGs to document their non-hazardous waste 
determinations when they have generated a solid waste (section VIII.B 
of this preamble); (2) requiring SQGs to re-notify every two years if 
they have not done so otherwise through an alternative process (section 
VIII.C of this preamble); (3) requiring SQGs and LQGs to better define 
the contents and associated risks of hazardous wastes accumulated in 
tanks, containers, drip pads, and containment buildings, as well as 
when hazardous waste is accumulated in satellite accumulation areas 
(sections VII.E., VIII.F and VIII.I of this preamble); (4) requiring 
LQGs to notify EPA or their authorized state when they plan to close 
either a hazardous waste accumulation unit or their generator site 
(section VIII.G of this preamble); (5) requiring new LQGs to prepare an 
executive summary of their contingency plans to assist responders in an 
emergency (section VIII.H of this preamble); (6) requiring LQGs to 
submit a biennial report that identifies all of the hazardous wastes 
generated in the calendar year, not just for the months the facility 
was an LQG (sections VIII.L of this preamble); (7) requiring transfer 
facilities to identify the contents and associated risks of containers 
that have been consolidated with other hazardous wastes (section X of 
this preamble); and (8) promulgating prohibitions on storage of 
restricted wastes (section XII of this preamble). Therefore, states 
that have adopted the base RCRA program would be required to modify 
their hazardous waste programs to incorporate equivalent provisions if 
these standards are finalized.
    On the other hand, three of the proposed revisions would be 
considered less stringent than the current hazardous waste regulations. 
These revisions include the following: (1) Allowing CESQGs to 
voluntarily send hazardous waste to LQGs under the control of the same 
person to facilitate the cost-effective management of hazardous wastes 
within the same company (section VII.C of this preamble); (2) allowing 
CESQGs and SQGs to voluntarily maintain their existing regulatory 
status if they have an episodic event that generates additional amounts 
of hazardous waste which would have resulted in them moving into a 
higher generator category for a short period of time, so long as they 
comply with specified conditions (section IX of this preamble); and (3) 
allowing LQGs to voluntarily apply for a waiver from their local fire 
department to accumulate ignitable and reactive wastes within the 50 
foot facility boundary provision (section XI.B of this preamble). Thus, 
authorized states may, but would not be required to, adopt these 
changes.
    This proposed rule also includes several revisions that are neither 
more nor less stringent, such as (1) mixing a non-hazardous waste with 
a hazardous waste (section VII.B of this preamble); (2) defining 
central accumulation area (section VI.C of this preamble); (3) 
prohibiting generators from sending hazardous liquids to landfills 
(section VIII.M of this preamble); (4) reorganizing the hazardous waste 
generator regulations to make them more user-friendly (section XIII of 
this preamble); (5) deleting the performance track regulations (section 
VIII.K of this preamble); (6) replacing the list of specific data 
elements with a requirement to complete and submit all data elements 
required in the biennial report form (section VIII.L of this preamble); 
and (7) technical corrections and conforming changes to various parts 
of the RCRA regulations (section XIV of this preamble). Thus, 
authorized states may, but would not be required to, adopt these 
changes.

[[Page 57988]]

XVIII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive 
Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review

    Under Executive Order 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993), this 
action is a ``significant regulatory action'' in that it may raise 
novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal mandates, the 
President's priorities, or the principles set forth in the Executive 
Order. Accordingly, EPA submitted this action to the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) for review under Executive Orders 12866 and 
13563 (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011) and any changes made in response 
to OMB recommendations have been documented in the docket for this 
action.
    In addition, EPA prepared an analysis of the potential costs and 
benefits associated with this action. This analysis is contained in 
EPA's Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) document titled ``Assessment of 
the Potential Costs, Benefits, and other Impacts of the Improvements to 
the Hazardous Waste Generator Regulatory Program, As Proposed.'' A copy 
of the analysis is available in the docket for this action and the 
analysis is briefly summarized here.
    Based on the impact estimates presented in the RIA, EPA does not 
expect that this action will be ``economically significant'' because 
the estimated annualized cost for compliance with the proposed changes 
to the hazardous waste generator regulatory program is significantly 
less than the $100 million annual effect threshold of Section 3(f)(1) 
of Executive Order 12866. The RIA estimates the affected universe is 
between 353,000 and 543,000 entities. Of this universe, between 293,000 
and 469,000 CESQGs will only be affected if they choose to take 
advantage of two voluntary programs being proposed.
    EPA estimates the future annualized cost to industry to comply with 
the requirements of this proposed action at between $6.2 and $17.4 
million (at 7% discount rate). Similarly, the annualized net cost 
savings or benefits for facilities opting to take advantage of two 
voluntary programs in the rule (e.g., consolidation of CESQG waste by 
large quantity generators under the same ownership, and generators who 
would not be required to change generator status as a result of an 
episodic event) is between $6.2 and $12.2 million (at 7% discount rate) 
resulting in a net annualized cost of between $0.1 million and $5.2 
million.
    In addition to estimating the cost for this proposed rule, the RIA 
also provides both quantitative and qualitative (i.e., non-monetized) 
descriptions of future expected benefits for this action primarily 
consisting of improved industry environmental compliance.

B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)

    The information collection activities in this proposed rule have 
been submitted for approval to the Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) under the PRA. The Information Collection Request (ICR) document 
that the EPA prepared has been assigned EPA ICR number 2513.01. You can 
find a copy of the ICR in the docket for this rule, and it is briefly 
summarized here.
    This proposed rule is necessary for EPA and authorized states to 
oversee the generation and management of hazardous waste. EPA is 
proposing the establishment of these information collection 
requirements under the authority of RCRA Subtitle C. There are several 
provisions to this rule that will require respondents to either submit 
information to EPA or authorized state, or maintain records at their 
facility. For example, generators will have to notify EPA or their 
authorized state they plan to take advantage of two voluntary 
provisions that will provide greater flexibility in how they manage 
hazardous waste (i.e., CESQG consolidation of their hazardous waste by 
a LQG under the same person or company; and episodic generation of 
hazardous waste resulting in a temporary change in regulatory status).
    Similarly, SQGs will have to re-notify EPA or their authorized 
state every other year that they have not changed their regulatory 
category to support effective inspections and program management 
activities. In an effort to improve program compliance, both SQGs and 
LQGs will be required to maintain records supporting the basis for 
their non-hazardous waste determinations (i.e., a generator generated a 
solid waste but not a hazardous waste). Similarly, new LQGs will be 
required to develop and submit an executive summary of their emergency 
response plan to their Local Emergency Planning Committee to 
effectively assist emergency responders responding to an emergency.
    EPA and state agencies will use the collected information to ensure 
that hazardous wastes are managed in a cost-effective manner that 
minimizes risks to human health and the environment. Local emergency 
response organizations will also use the collected information to 
prepare contingency plans to reduce risks to emergency responders and 
bystanders. EPA does not expect confidentiality to be an issue in 
generators either providing information to EPA or an authorized state 
or in maintaining the necessary records supporting a non-hazardous 
waste determination. The statutory authority to collect the proposed 
information is found at RCRA 3002 (42 U.S.C. 6922) and RCRA 3003 (42 
U.S.C. 6923).
    Respondents/Affected Entities: Private sector.
    Respondent's Obligation to Respond: Mandatory per RCRA 3002 (42 
U.S.C. 6922) and RCRA 3003 (42 U.S.C. 6923).
    Estimated Number of Respondents: 96,375
    Frequency of Response: On occasion.
    Total Estimated Burden: 304,318 hours (per year). Burden is defined 
at 5 CFR 1320.3(b).
    Total Estimated Cost: $16.8 million (per year), includes $3.9 
million annualized capital or operation & maintenance costs.
    An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required 
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a 
currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in 40 CFR are listed in 40 CFR part 9.
    Submit your comments on the Agency's need for this information, the 
accuracy of the provided burden estimates and any suggested methods for 
minimizing respondent burden to the EPA using the docket identified at 
the beginning of this rule. You may also send your ICR-related comments 
to OMB's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs via email to 
[email protected], Attention: Desk Officer for the EPA. 
Since OMB is required to make a decision concerning the ICR between 30 
and 60 days after receipt, OMB must receive comments no later than 
October 26, 2015. The EPA will respond to any ICR-related comments in 
the final rule.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)

    I certify that this action will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities under the RFA. The 
small entities directly regulated by this proposed rule include 
entities that generate hazardous waste across various industries, 
including, but not limited to, printing, petroleum refining, chemical 
manufacturing, plastics and resin manufacturing, pharmaceutical 
manufacturing, paint and coating, iron and steel mills, metal and metal 
product manufacturing, electroplating, printed circuit board 
manufacturing, semiconductor manufacturing, motor

[[Page 57989]]

vehicle parts manufacturing, research and development, hazardous waste 
treatment and disposal, academic institutions, and hospitals. We have 
determined that between 25,550 and 33,800 small entities impacted will 
experience an impact of less than 1% of annual sales for all affected 
small entities.
    Although this proposed rule will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities, EPA nonetheless has 
tried to reduce the impact of this rule on small entities. Many of the 
changes in this proposed rulemaking come from outreach efforts to 
generators of hazardous waste, including small entities, and are 
designed to make the generator regulations more accessible and user 
friendly. As part of the proposal, EPA is including several provisions 
that would provide increased flexibility for small entities in managing 
hazardous waste, such as the ability for hazardous waste generators to 
use the episodic generator provisions if they have a distinct event 
that would otherwise cause them to have to bump up to a higher 
generator category. We continue to be interested in the potential 
impacts of the proposed rule on small entities and welcome comments on 
issues related to such impacts.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This proposed rule does not contain an unfunded mandate of $100 
million as described in UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, and does not 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. The RIA estimates 
that the state government share of future average annualized direct 
costs for the proposed rule requirements to range between $1.2 million 
and $2.3 million per year. Thus, this proposed rule is not subject to 
the requirements of sections 202 or 205 of UMRA.
    This proposed rule is also not subject to the requirements of 
section 203 of UMRA because it contains no regulatory requirements that 
might significantly or uniquely affect small governments. The 
rulemaking proposes clarifications and modifications to the hazardous 
waste generator regulations, which impacts only those entities that 
generate hazardous waste. Small governments would only be subject to 
the changes in the proposed rule if they generated hazardous waste 
subject to the RCRA hazardous waste requirements.

E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism

    This action does not have federalism implications. It will not have 
substantial direct effects on the states, on the relationship between 
the national government and the states, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government, as 
specified in Executive Order 13132. The proposed rule simply proposes 
clarifications and modifications to the existing hazardous waste 
generator regulations. Thus, Executive Order 13132 does not apply to 
this action. Although section 6 of Executive Order 13132 does not apply 
to this action, EPA did consult with state officials in developing this 
action.

F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination with Indian 
Tribal Governments

    This action may have tribal implications. However, it will neither 
impose substantial direct compliance costs on tribal governments, nor 
preempt tribal law. Under the RCRA statute, the federal government 
implements hazardous waste regulations directly in Indian Country. 
Thus, the proposed changes to the hazardous waste regulations would not 
impose any direct costs on tribal governments.
    The EPA consulted with tribal officials under the EPA Policy on 
Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes early in the process 
of developing this regulation to permit them to have meaningful and 
timely input into its development. A summary of that consultation is 
provided in the docket for this action.
    As required by section 7(a), the EPA's Tribal Consultation Official 
has certified that the requirements of the executive order have been 
met in a meaningful and timely manner. A copy of the certification is 
included in the docket for this action.

G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children from Environmental 
Health Risks and Safety Risks

    This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 because it is 
not economically significant as defined in Executive Order 12866, and 
because the Agency does not believe the environmental health or safety 
risks addressed by this action present a disproportionate risk to 
children. The Agency does not believe that this action presents risks 
to the public. In fact, there are several components to this proposed 
rule that modify the existing hazardous waste generator regulations to 
enhance environmental protection in the local community. Examples 
include (1) requiring LQGs and SQGs to document and maintain records of 
their waste determinations, including determinations that a solid waste 
is a non-hazardous waste; (2) requiring LQGs and SQGs to provide more 
detailed marking and labeling information for containers, tanks, drip 
pads, and containment buildings accumulating hazardous wastes; (3) 
requiring LQGs to notify EPA or an authorized state when they plan to 
close either a hazardous waste accumulation unit or their site; (4) 
requiring LQGs and SQGs to re-notify EPA or the authorized state on a 
periodic basis of their hazardous waste generator activities; and (5) 
improving emergency preparedness and response regulations on the part 
of SQGs and LQGs.

H. Executive Order 13211: Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution or Use

    This action is not a ``significant energy action'' as defined in 
Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355 (May 22, 2001)), because it is not 
likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, 
distribution, or use of energy. This proposed rule does not involve the 
supply, distribution, or use of energy.

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)

    This rulemaking does not involve technical standards.

J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions to Address Environmental 
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations

    Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629 (February 16, 1994)) establishes 
federal executive policy on environmental justice. Its main provision 
directs federal agencies, to the greatest extent practicable and 
permitted by law, to make environmental justice part of their mission 
by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately high 
and adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs, 
policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income 
populations in the United States.
    EPA has determined that this proposed rule increases the level of 
environmental protection for all affected populations and thus will not 
have disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental 
effects on minority, low-income or indigenous populations. 
Specifically, there are several components to this proposed rule that 
modify the existing hazardous waste generator regulations to assist 
generators in understanding and facilitating improved compliance with 
the hazardous waste regulations. Examples include modifying regulations 
regarding mixing of non-hazardous waste with a hazardous waste by a

[[Page 57990]]

generator, or when a hazardous waste generator generates both acute and 
non-acute hazardous waste in the same calendar month. Additionally, EPA 
is proposing to reorganize the hazardous waste generator rules to make 
them more user-friendly and therefore assist generators in 
understanding their responsibilities in managing the hazardous waste 
they generate safely, which support better environmental protection.
    Still other components of this proposed rule enhance environmental 
protection in the local community, and therefore foster improved 
environmental protection, including for minority populations and low-
income populations. They include, for example, (1) requiring LQGs and 
SQGs to document and maintain records of their waste determinations, 
including determinations that a solid waste is a non-hazardous waste; 
(2) requiring LQGs and SQGs to provide more detailed marking and 
labeling information for containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment 
buildings accumulating hazardous wastes; (3) requiring LQGs to notify 
EPA or an authorized state when they plan to close either a hazardous 
waste unit or their site; (4) requiring LQGs and SQGs to re-notify EPA 
or the authorized state on a periodic basis of their hazardous waste 
generator activities; and (5) improving emergency preparedness and 
response regulations on the part of SQGs and LQGs.
    Furthermore, EPA is also proposing to allow CESQGs to ship their 
hazardous waste to an LQG under the control of the same person. As 
described in section VII.C of the preamble, this may increase 
environmental protection in the local community because hazardous waste 
generated by CESQGs would be subject to more stringent requirements 
upon receipt by the LQG, including ultimate management by a RCRA 
permitted TSDF (as opposed to being managed possibly in a municipal 
solid waste landfill). Although this proposed change could result in an 
increase in traffic for certain communities, EPA believes the increase 
would not be significant given that CESQGs currently may send their 
hazardous waste to a number of destinations, including municipal and 
non-municipal solid waste management facilities.
    Lastly, EPA is proposing alternative standards for CESQGs and SQGs 
that would allow these entities to maintain their generator category if 
generating hazardous waste from an episodic event. Although these 
generators would be allowed to temporarily manage a greater amount of 
hazardous waste than their normal generator category allows, EPA is 
proposing conditions under which the hazardous waste generated from an 
episodic event must be managed in order to maintain protection of human 
health and the environment. Therefore, EPA does not anticipate 
disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental 
effects on minority, low-income or indigenous populations from these 
proposed alternative standards.

List of Subjects

40 CFR Part 260

    Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, 
Confidential business information, Incorporation by reference, 
Hazardous waste, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

40 CFR Part 261

    Environmental protection, Hazardous waste, Recycling, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

40 CFR Part 262

    Environmental protection, Exports, Hazardous materials 
transportation, Hazardous waste, Imports, Incorporation by reference, 
Labeling, Packaging and containers, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

40 CFR Part 263

    Environmental protection, Hazardous materials transportation, 
Hazardous waste, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

40 CFR Part 264

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Hazardous waste, 
Insurance, Packaging and containers, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Security measures, Surety bonds.

40 CFR Part 265

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Hazardous waste, 
Insurance, Packaging and containers, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Security measures, Surety bonds, Water supply.

40 CFR Part 268

    Environmental protection, Hazardous waste, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

40 CFR Part 270

    Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, 
Confidential business information, Hazardous materials transportation, 
Hazardous waste, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Water 
pollution control, Water supply.

40 CFR Part 273

    Environmental protection, Hazardous materials transportation, 
Hazardous waste.

40 CFR Part 279

    Environmental protection, Petroleum, Recycling, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: August 31, 2015.
Gina McCarthy,
Administrator.
    For the reasons set out in the preamble, title 40, chapter I of the 
Code of Federal Regulations is proposed to be amended as follows:

PART 260-- HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: GENERAL

0
1. The authority citation for part 260 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6912(a), 6921-6927, 6930, 6934, 
6935, 6937, 6938, 6939, and 6974.
0
2. Section 260.3 is amended by revising the introductory paragraph to 
read as follows:


Sec.  260.3  Use of number and gender.

    As used in parts 260 through 273 of this chapter:
* * * * *
0
3. Amend Sec.  260.10 by:
0
a. Adding in alphabetical order the definitions of ``Acute hazardous 
waste'', ``Central accumulation area'', ``Large quantity generator'', 
``Non-acute hazardous waste'';
0
b. Removing the definition for ``Performance Track member facility'';
0
c. Revising the definition of ``Small quantity generator'';
0
d. Revising the heading of the definition ``Treatability Study'' to 
read ``Treatability study'';
0
e. Revising the heading of the definition ``Universal Waste Handler'' 
to read ``Universal waste handler''; and
0
f. Revising the heading of the definition ``Universal Waste 
Transporter'' to read ``Universal waste transporter''; and
0
g. Adding in alphabetical order the definition of ``Very small quantity 
generator''.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  260.10  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Acute hazardous waste means hazardous wastes that meet the listing 
criteria in Sec.  261.11(a)(2) and therefore are either listed in Sec.  
261.31 of this chapter with the assigned hazard code

[[Page 57991]]

of (H) or are listed in Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter.
* * * * *
    Central accumulation area means any on-site hazardous waste 
accumulation area with hazardous waste accumulating in units subject to 
either Sec.  262.16 (for small quantity generators) or Sec.  262.17 
(for large quantity generators). A central accumulation area at an 
eligible academic entity that chooses to be subject to part 262 subpart 
K must also comply with Sec.  262.211 when accumulating unwanted 
material and/or hazardous waste.
* * * * *
    Large quantity generator is a generator who generates any of the 
following amounts in a calendar month:
    (1) Greater than or equal to 1000 kilograms (2200 lbs) of non-acute 
hazardous waste;
    (2) Greater than 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste 
listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter; or
    (3) Greater than 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or 
contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of 
a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous waste 
listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter.
* * * * *
    Non-acute hazardous waste means all hazardous wastes that are not 
acute hazardous waste, as defined in this section.
* * * * *
    Small quantity generator is a generator who generates the following 
amounts in a calendar month:
    (1) Greater than 100 kilograms (220 lbs) but less than 1000 
kilograms (2200 lbs) of non-acute hazardous waste;
    (2) Less than or equal to 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous 
waste listed in Sec. Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter; 
and
    (3) Less than or equal to 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or 
contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of 
a spill, into or on any land or water, of any acute hazardous waste 
listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter.
* * * * *
    Very small quantity generator is a generator who generates less 
than or equal to the following amounts in a calendar month:
    (1) 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of non-acute hazardous waste; and
    (2) 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  
261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter; and
    (3) 100 kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or contaminated soil, 
water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into or 
on any land or water, of any acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  
261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter.
* * * * *
0
4. Section 260.11 is amended by revising the section heading and 
paragraph (d)(1) to read as follows:


Sec.  260.11  Incorporation by reference.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) ``Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code'' (1977 or 1981), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  262.16, 264.198, 265.198, 267.202(b).
* * * * *

PART 261-- IDENTIFICATION AND LISTING OF HAZARDOUS WASTE

0
5. The authority citation for part 261 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6912(a), 6921, 6922, 6924(y), and 
6938.


Sec.  261.1  [Amended]

0
6. Section 261.1, paragraph (c)(6) is amended by removing ``(e.g.,)'' 
and inserting ``(e.g.,'' in its place.
0
7. Section 261.4 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(7) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  261.4  Exclusions.

    (a) * * *
    (7) Spent sulfuric acid used to produce virgin sulfuric acid 
provided it is not accumulated speculatively as defined in Sec.  
261.1(c) of this chapter.
* * * * *


Sec.  261.5  [Removed and reserved]

0
8. Remove and reserve Sec.  261.5.
0
9. Section 261.6 is amended by adding paragraph (c)(2)(iv) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  261.6  Requirements for recyclable materials.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iv) Section 265.75 of this chapter (biennial reporting 
requirements).
* * * * *
0
10. Section 261.33 is amended by revising paragraphs (e) introductory 
text and (f) introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  261.33  Discarded commercial chemical products, off-specification 
species, container residues, and spill residues thereof.

* * * * *
    (e) The commercial chemical products, manufacturing chemical 
intermediates or off-specification commercial chemical products or 
manufacturing chemical intermediates referred to in paragraphs (a) 
through (d) of this section, are identified as acute hazardous wastes 
(H).
* * * * *
    (f) The commercial chemical products, manufacturing chemical 
intermediates, or off-specification commercial chemical products 
referred to in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section, are 
identified as toxic wastes (T).
* * * * *
0
11. Section 261.420 is amended by adding paragraph (g) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  261.420  Contingency planning and emergency procedures for 
facilities generating or accumulating more than 6000 kg of hazardous 
secondary material.

* * * * *
    (g) Personnel training. All employees must be thoroughly familiar 
with proper waste handling and emergency procedures relevant to their 
responsibilities during normal facility operations and emergencies.

PART 262--STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO GENERATORS OF HAZARDOUS WASTE

0
12. The authority citation for part 262 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6906, 6912, 6922-6925, 6937, and 6938.

Subpart A--General

0
13. Section 262.1 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  262.1  Terms used in this part.

    As used in this part:
    Independent requirement means a requirement of part 262 that states 
an event, action, or standard that must occur or be met; and that 
applies without relation to, or irrespective of, the purpose of 
obtaining a conditional exemption from a permit or having interim 
status under Sec. Sec.  262.14, 262.15, 262.16, or 262.17.
    Condition for exemption means any requirement in Sec. Sec.  262.14, 
262.15, 262.16, or 262.17, that states an event, action, or standard 
that must occur or be met in order to obtain a conditional exemption 
from any requirement in parts 124, 262 through 268, or 270, or from any 
requirement for notification under section 3010 of RCRA.
0
14. Section 262.10 is amended by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs (a) and (b);
0
b. Removing and reserving paragraph (c);
0
c. Revising paragraph (g);
0
d. Removing and reserving paragraphs (j);
0
e. Revising paragraph (l); and
0
f. Removing Notes 1 and 2.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

[[Page 57992]]

Sec.  262.10  Purpose, scope, and applicability.

    (a) The regulations in this part establish standards for generators 
of hazardous waste as defined by 40 CFR 260.10.
    (1) A person who generates a hazardous waste as defined by 40 CFR 
part 261 is subject to all the applicable independent requirements in 
the subparts and sections listed below, unless the person is a very 
small quantity generator that meets the conditions for exemption in 
Sec.  262.14.
    (i) Independent requirements of a small quantity generator. (A) 
Section 262.11 Hazardous waste determination and recordkeeping;
    (B) Section 262.13 Generator category determination;
    (C) Section 262.18 EPA identification numbers and re-notification 
for large quantity generators and small quantity generators;
    (D) Part 262 subpart B--The manifest;
    (E) Part 262 subpart C--Pre-transport requirements;
    (F) Section 262.40 Recordkeeping;
    (G) Section 262.44 Special independent requirements for small 
quantity generators;
    (H) Part 262 subpart E-subpart F--Imports and exports of hazardous 
waste;
    (I) Part 262 subpart G--Farmers; and
    (J) Part 262 subpart H--Transfrontier shipments of hazardous waste 
for recovery within the OECD.
    (ii) Independent requirements of a large quantity generator. (A) 
Section 262.11 Hazardous waste determination and recordkeeping;
    (B) Section 262.13 Generator category determination;
    (C) Section 262.18 EPA identification numbers and re-notification 
for large quantity generators and small quantity generators;
    (D) Part 262 subpart B--The manifest;
    (E) Part 262 subpart C--Pre-transport requirements;
    (F) Part 262 subpart D--Recordkeeping and reporting, except Sec.  
262.44;
    (G) Part 262 subpart E-subpart F-- Imports and exports of hazardous 
waste;
    (H) Part 262 subpart G--Farmers; and
    (I) Part 262 subpart H--Transfrontier shipments of hazardous waste 
for recovery within the OECD.
    (2) A generator that accumulates hazardous waste on site is a 
facility that stores hazardous waste and is subject to the applicable 
requirements of parts 124, 263 through 270, and section 3010 of RCRA, 
unless it is one of the following:
    (i) A very small quantity generator that meets the conditions for 
exemption in Sec.  262.14;
    (ii) A small quantity generator that meets the conditions for 
exemption in Sec. Sec.  262.15 and 262.16; or
    (iii) A large quantity generator that meets the conditions for 
exemption in Sec. Sec.  262.15 and 262.17.
    (3) A generator shall not transport, offer its waste for transport, 
or otherwise cause its waste to be sent to a facility that is not a 
designated facility, as defined in Sec.  260.10, or not otherwise 
authorized to receive the generator's waste.
    (b) Determining generator category. A generator must use 40 CFR 
262.13 to determine which provisions of this part are applicable to the 
generator based on the quantity of hazardous waste generated per 
calendar month.
* * * * *
    (g)(1) A generator's violation of an applicable requirement in 40 
CFR part 124, 262 through 268, or 270, or of applicable notification 
requirements of section 3010 of RCRA, is subject to penalty and 
injunctive relief under section 3008 of RCRA.
    (2) A generator's noncompliance with a condition for exemption in 
this part is not subject to penalty or injunctive relief under section 
3008 of RCRA as a violation of a 40 CFR part 262 condition for 
exemption. Noncompliance with a condition for exemption in this part 
results in failure to obtain, or to maintain, such exemption. Failure 
to obtain or maintain the exemption results in a violation of one or 
more applicable independent requirements in 40 CFR part 124, 262 
through 268, or 270, or of the notification requirements of section 
3010 of RCRA. A generator's violation of an independent requirement is 
subject to penalty and injunctive relief under section 3008 of RCRA.
* * * * *
    (l) The laboratories owned by an eligible academic entity that 
chooses to be subject to the requirements of subpart K of this part are 
not subject to (for purposes of this paragraph, the terms 
``laboratory'' and ``eligible academic entity'' shall have the meaning 
as defined in Sec.  262.200 of subpart K of this part):
    (1) The independent requirements of Sec.  262.11 or the regulations 
in Sec.  262.15 for large quantity generators and small quantity 
generators, except as provided in subpart K, and
    (2) The conditions of Sec.  262.14, for very small quantity 
generators, except as provided in subpart K.
0
15. Revise Sec.  262.11 and its section heading to read as follows:


Sec.  262.11  Hazardous waste determination and recordkeeping.

    A person who generates a solid waste, as defined in 40 CFR 261.2, 
must make an accurate determination of whether that waste is a 
hazardous waste using the following steps:
    (a) A hazardous waste determination for each solid waste must be 
made at the point of waste generation, before any dilution, mixing, or 
other alteration of the waste occurs, and at any time in the course of 
its management that it has, or may have, changed its properties as a 
result of exposure to the environment or other factors that may change 
the properties of the waste.
    (b) A person must determine if the solid waste is excluded from 
regulation under 40 CFR 261.4.
    (c) If the waste is not excluded under 40 CFR 261.4, the person 
must then use knowledge of the waste to determine if the waste meets 
any of the listing descriptions under subpart D of 40 CFR part 261. 
Acceptable knowledge that may be used in making an accurate 
determination as to whether the waste is listed includes, but is not 
limited to, waste origin, composition, the process producing the waste, 
feedstock, and other relevant information. If the waste is listed, the 
person may file a delisting petition under 40 CFR 260.20 and 260.22 to 
demonstrate to the Administrator that the waste from this particular 
site or operation is not a hazardous waste.
    (d) If the waste is not listed in subpart D of 40 CFR part 261 or 
if it is a listed waste, which must meet the land disposal restrictions 
under 40 CFR part 268, the person then must also determine whether the 
waste exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics as identified in 
subpart C of 40 CFR part 261 by following the procedures in either 
paragraph (d)(1) or (2) of this section.
    (1) The person must test the waste according to the methods set 
forth in subpart C of 40 CFR part 261 or according to an equivalent 
method approved by the Administrator under 40 CFR 260.21 and in 
accordance with the following:
    (i) Persons testing their waste must obtain a representative sample 
of the waste for the testing, as defined at 40 CFR 260.10.
    (ii) Where a test method is specified in the regulation, the 
results of the regulatory test, when properly performed, are definitive 
for determining the regulatory status of the waste.
    (2) The person must apply knowledge of the hazard characteristic of 
the waste in light of the materials or the processes

[[Page 57993]]

used. Acceptable knowledge may include process knowledge (e.g., 
information about chemical feedstocks and other inputs to the 
production process); knowledge of products, by-products, and 
intermediates produced by the manufacturing process; chemical or 
physical characterization of wastes; information on the chemical and 
physical properties of the chemicals used or produced by the processor 
or otherwise contained in the waste; testing that illustrates the 
properties of the waste; or other reliable and relevant information 
about the properties of the waste or its constituents. A test other 
than a test method set forth in subpart C of 40 CFR part 261, or 
according to an equivalent method approved by the Administrator under 
40 CFR 260.21, may be used as part of a person's knowledge to determine 
whether a solid waste exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste. 
However, such tests do not, by themselves, provide definitive results.
    (e) Recordkeeping for small and large quantity generators. A small 
or large quantity generator must maintain records supporting its solid 
and hazardous waste determinations, including records that identify a 
material as a solid waste, as defined by 40 CFR 261.2, and records 
identifying whether that solid waste is or is not also a hazardous 
waste, as defined by 40 CFR 261.3. Generators may wish to segregate any 
of their municipal solid waste from other solid and hazardous wastes to 
avoid potential co-mingling. Records must be maintained for at least 
three years from the date that the waste was last generated. These 
records must comprise the generator's knowledge of the waste and 
support the generator's determination, as described at 40 CFR 262.11(c) 
and (d). The records must include, but are not be limited to, the 
following types of information: The results of any tests, sampling, or 
waste analyses; records documenting the tests, sampling, and analytical 
methods used and demonstrating the validity and relevance of such 
tests; records consulted in order to determine the process by which the 
waste was generated, the composition of the waste, and the properties 
of the waste; and records which explain the knowledge basis for the 
generator's determination, as described at 40 CFR 262.11(d)(2). The 
periods of record retention referred to in this section are extended 
automatically during the course of any unresolved enforcement action 
regarding the regulated activity or as requested by the Administrator.
    (f) If the waste is determined to be hazardous, all applicable EPA 
hazardous waste numbers (EPA hazardous waste codes) in subparts C and D 
of part 261 must be identified.
    (g) If the waste is determined to be hazardous, the generator must 
refer to parts 261, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, and 273 of this chapter 
for other possible exclusions or restrictions pertaining to management 
of the specific waste.


Sec.   262.12 [Removed and reserved]

0
16. Remove and reserve Sec.  262.12.
0
17. Add Sec. Sec.  262.13 through 262.18 to subpart A to read as 
follows:
* * * * *
Sec.
262.13 Generator category determination.
262.14 Conditions for exemption for a very small quantity generator.
262.15 Satellite accumulation area regulations for small and large 
quantity generators.
262.16 Conditions for exemption for a small quantity generator that 
accumulates hazardous waste.
262.17 Conditions for exemption for a large quantity generator that 
accumulates hazardous waste.
262.18 EPA identification numbers and re-notification for small 
quantity generators and large quantity generators.


Sec.  262.13  Generator category determination.

    (a) Monthly determination. A generator's category is determined 
each month by the amount of hazardous waste it generates and may change 
from month to month. This section sets forth procedures to determine 
whether a generator is a very small quantity generator, a small 
quantity generator, or a large quantity generator for a particular 
month, as defined in Sec.  260.10 of this chapter.
    (b) Generators of both acute and non-acute hazardous wastes. A 
generator who generates both acute hazardous waste and non-acute 
hazardous waste in the same calendar month shall determine its 
generator category for that month by doing the following:
    (1) Counting separately the total amount of acute hazardous waste 
and the total amount of non-acute hazardous waste generated in the 
calendar month;
    (2) Subtracting from each total any amounts of waste exempt from 
counting as described in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section;
    (3) Determining separately the resulting generator categories for 
the quantities of acute and non-acute hazardous waste generated; and
    (4) Comparing the resulting generator categories from paragraph 
(b)(3) of this section and applying the more stringent generator 
category to the accumulation and management of both non-acute hazardous 
waste and acute hazardous waste generated for that month.

     Table 1 to Sec.   262.13--Generator Categories Based on Quantity of Waste Generated in A Calendar Month
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              Quantity of
                                   Quantity of acute   Quantity of non-     residues from a
                                    hazardous waste    acute  hazardous    cleanup of acute
                #                   generated in a    waste generated in    hazardous waste   Generator category
                                    calendar month     a calendar month     generated in a
                                                                            calendar month
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................  > 1 kg............  Any amount........  Any amount........  Large quantity
                                                                                               generator.
2...............................  Any amount........  >= 1,000 kg.......  Any amount........  Large quantity
                                                                                               generator.
3...............................  Any amount........  Any amount........  > 100 kg..........  Large quantity
                                                                                               generator.
4...............................  <= 1 kg...........  > 100 kg and <      <= 100 kg.........  Small quantity
                                                       1,000 kg.                               generator.
5...............................  <= 1 kg...........  <= 100 kg.........  <= 100 kg.........  Very small
                                                                                               quantity
                                                                                               generator.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) When making the monthly quantity-based determinations required 
by this part, the generator must include all hazardous waste that it 
generates, except hazardous waste that:
    (1) Is exempt from regulation under 40 CFR 261.4(c) through (f), 
261.6(a)(3), 261.7(a)(1), or 261.8;
    (2) Is managed immediately upon generation only in on-site 
elementary neutralization units, wastewater treatment units, or totally 
enclosed treatment facilities as defined in 40 CFR 260.10;
    (3) Is recycled, without prior storage or accumulation, only in an 
on-site process subject to regulation under 40 CFR 261.6(c)(2);
    (4) Is used oil managed under the requirements of 40 CFR 
261.6(a)(4) and 40 CFR part 279;
    (5) Is spent lead-acid batteries managed under the requirements of 
40 CFR part 266 subpart G;

[[Page 57994]]

    (6) Is universal waste managed under 40 CFR 261.9 and 40 CFR part 
273;
    (7) Is a hazardous waste that is an unused commercial chemical 
product (listed in 40 CFR part 261 subpart D or exhibiting one or more 
characteristics in 40 CFR part 261 subpart C) that is generated solely 
as a result of a laboratory clean-out conducted at an eligible academic 
entity pursuant to Sec.  262.213. For purposes of this provision, the 
term eligible academic entity shall have the meaning as defined in 
Sec.  262.200; or
    (8) Is managed under an episodic event in compliance with the 
conditions of subpart L of this part.
    (d) In determining the quantity of hazardous waste generated in a 
calendar month, a generator need not include:
    (1) Hazardous waste when it is removed from on-site accumulation; 
or
    (2) Hazardous waste generated by on-site treatment (including 
reclamation) of the generator's hazardous waste, so long as the 
hazardous waste that is treated was previously counted once; or
    (3) Spent materials that are generated, reclaimed, and subsequently 
reused on site, so long as such spent materials have been previously 
counted once.


Sec.  262.14  Conditions for exemption for a very small quantity 
generator.

    (a) Hazardous waste generated by a very small quantity generator is 
not subject to the independent requirements of this part, except the 
paragraphs of Sec.  262.11 specified below or the requirements of parts 
124, 264 through 268, and 270 of this chapter, and the notification 
requirements of section 3010 of RCRA. A very small quantity generator 
may accumulate hazardous waste on site without a permit or interim 
status, and without complying with all the independent requirements of 
the above-mentioned parts and the notification requirements of section 
3010, provided that it meets all the conditions for exemption listed in 
this section:
    (1) In a calendar month the very small quantity generator generates 
less than or equal to the amounts specified in the definition of ``very 
small quantity generator'' in Sec.  260.10 of this chapter;
    (2) The very small quantity generator complies with Sec.  262.11(a) 
through (d) of this chapter;
    (3) Accumulation conditions for exemption--(i) Acute hazardous 
waste. If the very small quantity generator accumulates at any time 
greater than 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste or 100 
kilograms (220 lbs) of any residue or contaminated soil, water, or 
other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into or on any land 
or water, of any acute hazardous waste listed in Sec. Sec.  261.31 or 
261.33(e) of this chapter, all quantities of that acute hazardous waste 
are subject to full hazardous waste regulation under parts 124, 262 
through 268, and 270 of this chapter, and the notification requirements 
of section 3010 of RCRA. The 90-day accumulation time limit of Sec.  
262.17 begins on the date when the accumulated wastes exceed the above 
waste quantity limits;
    (ii) Non-acute hazardous waste. If the very small quantity 
generator accumulates at any time 1,000 kilograms (2,200 lbs) or 
greater of non-acute hazardous waste, all quantities of that hazardous 
waste are subject to full hazardous waste regulation under parts 124, 
262 through 268, and 270 of this chapter, and the notification 
requirements of section 3010 of RCRA. The 180-day and 270-day 
accumulation time limits of Sec.  262.16 begin on the date when the 
accumulated wastes equal or exceed 1000 kilograms (2,200 lbs).
    (4) A very small quantity generator that accumulates hazardous 
waste within the limits in paragraphs (a)(3)(i) and (ii) of this 
section must either treat or dispose of its hazardous waste in an on-
site facility or ensure delivery to an off-site treatment, storage, or 
disposal facility, either of which, if located in the U.S., is:
    (i) Permitted under part 270 of this chapter;
    (ii) In interim status under parts 270 and 265 of this chapter;
    (iii) Authorized to manage hazardous waste by a State with a 
hazardous waste management program approved under part 271 of this 
chapter;
    (iv) Permitted, licensed, or registered by a state to manage 
municipal solid waste and, if managed in a municipal solid waste 
landfill is subject to part 258 of this chapter;
    (v) Permitted, licensed, or registered by a state to manage non-
municipal non-hazardous waste and, if managed in a non-municipal non-
hazardous waste disposal unit, is subject to the requirements in 
Sec. Sec.  257.5 through 257.30 of this chapter;
    (vi) A facility which:
    (A) Beneficially uses or reuses, or legitimately recycles or 
reclaims its waste; or
    (B) Treats its waste prior to beneficial use or reuse, or 
legitimate recycling or reclamation;
    (vii) For universal waste managed under part 273 of this chapter, a 
universal waste handler or destination facility subject to the 
requirements of part 273 of this chapter;
    (viii) A large quantity generator under the control of the same 
person as the very small quantity generator, provided the following 
conditions are met:
    (A) The very small quantity generator and the large quantity 
generator are under the control of the same person as defined in Sec.  
260.10 of this chapter. ``Control,'' for the purposes of this section, 
means the power to direct the policies of the generator site, whether 
by the ownership of stock, voting rights, or otherwise, except that 
contractors who operate generator sites on behalf of a different person 
as defined in Sec.  260.10 of this chapter shall not be deemed to 
``control'' such generator sites.
    (B) The very small quantity generator marks its container(s) of 
hazardous waste with:
    (1) The words ``Very Small Quantity Generator Hazardous Waste'';
    (2) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to, the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride'' or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D);
    (3) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (4) The applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) (hazardous waste 
codes) in part 261 subparts C and D.
    (b) Mixing hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste. A very small 
quantity generator may mix listed or characteristic hazardous waste 
with non-hazardous waste and remain eligible for the conditional 
exemption applicable to a very small quantity generator provided that 
either paragraph (b)(1) or (2) of this section is met:
    (1) The mixture does not exhibit any of the characteristics of 
hazardous waste

[[Page 57995]]

identified in subpart C of part 261 of this chapter; or
    (2) If the mixture does exhibit one or more characteristics of a 
hazardous waste identified in subpart C of part 261 of this chapter, 
the mixture does not cause the generator to exceed the very small 
quantity generator calendar month quantity limits identified in the 
definition of very small quantity generator at Sec.  260.10 of this 
chapter. If the mixture does exceed the quantity limit for a very small 
quantity generator, the very small quantity generator, to remain exempt 
from the permitting and interim status standards, must meet the 
conditions for exemption applicable to either a small quantity 
generator or large quantity generator according to the quantity of the 
hazardous waste it generated in a calendar month, including the 
resultant mixture and the total quantity the very small quantity 
generator accumulated on site.
    (c) If a very small quantity generator's wastes are mixed with used 
oil, the mixture is subject to 40 CFR part 279. Any material produced 
from such a mixture by processing, blending, or other treatment is also 
regulated under 40 CFR part 279.
    (d) The placement of bulk or non-containerized liquid hazardous 
waste or hazardous waste containing free liquids (whether or not 
sorbents have been added) in any landfill is prohibited.
    (e) A very small quantity generator experiencing an episodic event 
may accumulate hazardous waste in accordance with subpart L of this 
part in lieu of Sec. Sec.  262.15, 262.16, and 262.17.


Sec.  262.15  Satellite accumulation area regulations for small and 
large quantity generators.

    (a) A generator may accumulate as much as 55 gallons of non-acute 
hazardous waste and/or one quart or 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous 
waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this chapter in 
containers at or near any point of generation where wastes initially 
accumulate which is under the control of the operator of the process 
generating the waste, without a permit or interim status and without 
complying with Sec.  262.16(b) or Sec.  262.17(a) provided the 
generator complies with the following conditions for exemption:
    (1) If a container holding hazardous waste is not in good 
condition, or if it begins to leak, the generator must transfer the 
hazardous waste from this container to a container that is in good 
condition and does not leak, or transfer and manage the waste in a 
central accumulation area.
    (2) The generator must use a container made of or lined with 
materials that will not react with, and are otherwise compatible with, 
the hazardous waste to be accumulated, so that the ability of the 
container to contain the waste is not impaired.
    (3) Special standards for incompatible wastes.
    (i) Incompatible wastes, or incompatible wastes and materials, (see 
appendix V of part 265 for examples) must not be placed in the same 
container, unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with.
    (ii) Hazardous waste must not be placed in an unwashed container 
that previously held an incompatible waste or material (see appendix V 
of part 265 for examples), unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is 
complied with.
    (iii) A container holding a hazardous waste that is incompatible 
with any waste or other materials accumulated nearby in other 
containers, piles, open tanks, or surface impoundments must be 
separated from the other materials or protected from them by means of a 
dike, berm, wall, or other device.
    (4) A container holding hazardous waste must be closed at all times 
during accumulation, except:
    (i) When adding, removing, or consolidating waste, or
    (ii) When venting of a container is necessary
    (A) For the proper operation of equipment, or
    (B) To prevent dangerous situations, such as build-up of extreme 
pressure.
    (5) A generator must mark its container with the following:
    (i) The words ``Hazardous Waste,'' and
    (ii) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D); and
    (iii) An indication of the hazards of the contents. (examples 
include, but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit).
    (6) A generator who accumulates either non-acute hazardous waste or 
acute hazardous waste listed in Sec.  261.31 or Sec.  261.33(e) of this 
chapter in excess of the amounts listed in paragraph (a) of this 
section at or near any point of generation must do the following:
    (i) Remove the excess from the satellite accumulation area within 
three calendar days to either
    (A) A central accumulation area;
    (B) An on-site interim status or permitted treatment, storage, or 
disposal facility, or
    (C) An off-site designated facility.
    (ii) During the three-calendar-day period the generator must 
continue to comply with paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section. 
The generator must mark the container(s) holding the excess 
accumulation of hazardous waste with the date the excess amount began 
accumulating.


Sec.  262.16  Conditions for exemption for a small quantity generator 
that accumulates hazardous waste.

    A small quantity generator may accumulate hazardous waste on-site 
without a permit or interim status, and without complying with the 
independent requirements of parts 124, 264 through 268, and 270 of this 
chapter, provided that all the conditions for exemption listed in this 
section are met:
    (a) Generation. The generator generates in a calendar month no more 
than the amounts specified in the definition of ``small quantity 
generator'' in Sec.  260.10 of this chapter.
    (b) Accumulation. The generator accumulates hazardous waste on site 
for no more than 180 days, unless in compliance with the conditions for 
exemption for longer accumulation in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this 
section. The following accumulation conditions also apply:
    (1) Accumulation limit. The quantity of hazardous waste accumulated 
on site never exceeds 6,000 kilograms (13,200 pounds);
    (2) Accumulation in containers--(i) Condition of containers. If a 
container holding hazardous waste is not in good condition, or if it 
begins to leak, the small quantity generator must transfer the 
hazardous waste from this container to a container that is in good 
condition, or manage the waste in some other way that complies with the 
conditions for exemption of this section.

[[Page 57996]]

    (ii) Compatibility of waste with container. The small quantity 
generator must use a container made of or lined with materials that 
will not react with, and are otherwise compatible with, the hazardous 
waste to be accumulated, so that the ability of the container to 
contain the waste is not impaired.
    (iii) Management of containers. (A) A container holding hazardous 
waste must always be closed during accumulation, except when it is 
necessary to add or remove waste.
    (B) A container holding hazardous waste must not be opened, 
handled, or accumulated in a manner that may rupture the container or 
cause it to leak.
    (iv) Inspections. At least weekly, the small quantity generator 
must inspect central accumulation areas. The small quantity generator 
must look for leaking containers and for deterioration of containers 
caused by corrosion or other factors. See paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this 
section for remedial action required if deterioration or leaks are 
detected.
    (v) Special conditions for accumulation of incompatible wastes. (A) 
Incompatible wastes, or incompatible wastes and materials, (see 
appendix V of part 265 for examples) must not be placed in the same 
container, unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with.
    (B) Hazardous waste must not be placed in an unwashed container 
that previously held an incompatible waste or material (see appendix V 
of part 265 for examples), unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is 
complied with.
    (C) A container accumulating hazardous waste that is incompatible 
with any waste or other materials accumulated or stored nearby in other 
containers, piles, open tanks, or surface impoundments must be 
separated from the other materials or protected from them by means of a 
dike, berm, wall, or other device.
    (3) Accumulation in tanks.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (ii) A small quantity generator of hazardous waste must comply with 
the following general operating conditions:
    (A) Treatment or accumulation of hazardous waste in tanks must 
comply with Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter.
    (B) Hazardous wastes or treatment reagents must not be placed in a 
tank if they could cause the tank or its inner liner to rupture, leak, 
corrode, or otherwise fail before the end of its intended life.
    (C) Uncovered tanks must be operated to ensure at least 60 
centimeters (2 feet) of freeboard, unless the tank is equipped with a 
containment structure (e.g., dike or trench), a drainage control 
system, or a diversion structure (e.g., standby tank) with a capacity 
that equals or exceeds the volume of the top 60 centimeters (2 feet) of 
the tank.
    (D) Where hazardous waste is continuously fed into a tank, the tank 
must be equipped with a means to stop this inflow (e.g., waste feed 
cutoff system or by-pass system to a stand-by tank).
    (iii) Except as noted in paragraph (a)(3)(iv) of this section, a 
small quantity generator that accumulates hazardous waste in tanks must 
inspect, where present:
    (A) Discharge control equipment (e.g., waste feed cutoff systems, 
by-pass systems, and drainage systems) at least once each operating 
day, to ensure that it is in good working order;
    (B) Data gathered from monitoring equipment (e.g., pressure and 
temperature gauges) at least once each operating day to ensure that the 
tank is being operated according to its design;
    (C) The level of waste in the tank at least once each operating day 
to ensure compliance with paragraph (a)(3)(ii)(C) of this section;
    (D) The construction materials of the tank at least weekly to 
detect corrosion or leaking of fixtures or seams; and
    (E) The construction materials of, and the area immediately 
surrounding, discharge confinement structures (e.g., dikes) at least 
weekly to detect erosion or obvious signs of leakage (e.g., wet spots 
or dead vegetation). As required by Sec.  265.15(c) of this chapter, 
the small quantity generator must remedy any deterioration or 
malfunction it finds.
    (iv) A small quantity generator accumulating hazardous waste in 
tanks or tank systems that have full secondary containment and that 
either use leak detection equipment to alert personnel to leaks, or 
implement established workplace practices to ensure leaks are promptly 
identified, must inspect at least weekly, where applicable, the areas 
identified in paragraphs (a)(3)(iii)(A) through (E) of this section. 
Use of the alternate inspection schedule must be documented in the 
site's operating record. This documentation must include a description 
of the established workplace practices at the site.
    (v) [Reserved.]
    (vi) A small quantity generator accumulating hazardous waste in 
tanks must, upon closure of the site, remove all hazardous waste from 
tanks, discharge control equipment, and discharge confinement 
structures. At closure, as throughout the operating period, unless the 
small quantity generator can demonstrate, in accordance with Sec.  
261.3(c) or (d) of this chapter, that any solid waste removed from its 
tank is not a hazardous waste, then it must manage such waste in 
accordance with all applicable provisions of parts 262, 263, and 265 of 
this chapter.
    (vii) A small quantity generator must comply with the following 
special conditions for accumulation of ignitable or reactive waste:
    (A) Ignitable or reactive waste must not be placed in a tank, 
unless:
    (1) The waste is treated, rendered, or mixed before or immediately 
after placement in a tank so that the resulting waste, mixture, or 
dissolution of material no longer meets the definition of ignitable or 
reactive waste under Sec.  261.21 or 261.23 of this chapter and Sec.  
265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with; or
    (2) The waste is accumulated or treated in such a way that it is 
protected from any material or conditions that may cause the waste to 
ignite or react; or
    (3) The tank is used solely for emergencies.
    (B) A small quantity generator which treats or accumulates 
ignitable or reactive waste in covered tanks must comply with the 
buffer zone requirements for tanks contained in Tables 2-1 through 2-6 
of the National Fire Protection Association's ``Flammable and 
Combustible Liquids Code,'' (1977 or 1981) (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  260.11).
    (C) A small quantity generator must comply with the following 
special conditions for incompatible wastes:
    (1) Incompatible wastes, or incompatible wastes and materials, (see 
part 265 appendix V for examples) must not be placed in the same tank, 
unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with.
    (2) Hazardous waste must not be placed in an unwashed tank that 
previously held an incompatible waste or material, unless Sec.  
265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with.
    (4) Accumulation of hazardous waste on drip pads. A small quantity 
generator may accumulate hazardous waste on drip pads for 90 days or 
less without a permit or without having interim status provided that it 
complies with 40 CFR part 265 subpart W. The generator must maintain at 
the facility the following records by use of inventory logs, monitoring 
equipment, or any other effective means:
    (i) A written description of procedures that will identify the date 
hazardous waste first entered the drip pad and ensure that all wastes 
are removed from the drip pad and associated collection system at least 
once every 90 days; and

[[Page 57997]]

    (ii) Documentation of each waste removal, including the quantity of 
waste removed from the drip pad and the sump or collection system and 
the date and time of removal.
    (5) Accumulation of hazardous waste in containment buildings. A 
small quantity generator may accumulate hazardous waste in containment 
buildings for 90 days or less without a permit or without having 
interim status provided that it complies with 40 CFR part 265 subpart 
DD. The generator must also maintain the following records by use of 
inventory logs, monitoring equipment records, or any other effective 
means:
    (i) The professional engineer certification that the building 
complies with the design standards specified in 40 CFR 265.1101. This 
certification must be in the facility's operating record prior to 
operation of the unit; and
    (ii) A written description of procedures to ensure that each waste 
volume remains in the unit for no more than 90 days, a written 
description of the waste generation and management practices for the 
site showing that they are consistent with maintaining the 90 day 
limit, and documentation that the procedures are complied with; or
    (iii) Documentation that the unit is emptied at least once every 90 
days.
    (6) Labeling and marking of containers, tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings. (i) A small quantity generator must mark its 
containers with the following:
    (A) The words ``Hazardous Waste'';
    (B) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to, the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D);''
    (C) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (D) The date upon which each period of accumulation begins clearly 
visible for inspection on each container.
    (ii) A small quantity generator accumulating hazardous waste in 
tanks, drip pads and containment buildings must do the following:
    (A) Mark or label its waste accumulation units with the words 
``Hazardous Wastes.'' In the case of hazardous wastes accumulated in 
drip pads and containment buildings, generators must label their drip 
pads and containment buildings with the words ``Hazardous Wastes'' in a 
conspicuous place easily visible to employees, visitors, emergency 
responders, waste handlers, or other persons on site;
    (B) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment, or records to 
identify the contents of the tank, drip pad or containment building and 
its associated hazards;
    (C) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment or records to identify 
the date upon which each period of accumulation begins; and
    (D) Keep inventory logs or records with the above information in 
close proximity to the tank, drip pad, or containment building.
    (7) Land disposal restrictions. The generator complies with all the 
applicable requirements under 40 CFR part 268.
    (8) Preparedness and prevention--(i) Maintenance and operation of 
site. A small quantity generator must maintain and operate its site to 
minimize the possibility of a fire, explosion, or any unplanned sudden 
or non-sudden release of hazardous waste or hazardous waste 
constituents to air, soil, or surface water which could threaten human 
health or the environment.
    (ii) Required equipment. All areas where hazardous waste is either 
generated or accumulated must be equipped with the items in paragraphs 
(b)(8)(ii)(A) through (D) of this section (unless none of the hazards 
posed by waste handled at the site could require a particular kind of 
equipment specified below or the actual waste generation or 
accumulation area does not lend itself for safety reasons to have a 
particular kind of equipment specified below). A small quantity 
generator may determine the most appropriate locations within its 
generator site to locate equipment necessary to prepare for and respond 
to emergencies.
    (A) An internal communications or alarm system capable of providing 
immediate emergency instruction (voice or signal) to site personnel;
    (B) A device, such as a telephone (immediately available at the 
scene of operations) or a hand-held two-way radio, capable of summoning 
emergency assistance from local police departments, fire departments, 
or State or local emergency response teams;
    (C) Portable fire extinguishers, fire control equipment (including 
special extinguishing equipment, such as that using foam, inert gas, or 
dry chemicals), spill control equipment, and decontamination equipment; 
and
    (D) Water at adequate volume and pressure to supply water hose 
streams, or foam producing equipment, or automatic sprinklers, or water 
spray systems.
    (iii) Testing and maintenance of equipment. All communications or 
alarm systems, fire protection equipment, spill control equipment, and 
decontamination equipment, where required, must be tested and 
maintained as necessary to assure its proper operation in time of 
emergency.
    (iv) Access to communications or alarm system. (A) Whenever 
hazardous waste is being poured, mixed, spread, or otherwise handled, 
all personnel involved in the operation must have immediate access 
(e.g., direct or unimpeded access) to an internal alarm or emergency 
communication device, either directly or through visual or voice 
contact with another employee, unless such a device is not required 
under paragraph (a)(8)(ii) of this section.
    (B) In the event there is just one employee on the premises while 
the site is operating, the employee must have immediate access (e.g., 
direct or unimpeded access) to a device, such as a telephone 
(immediately available at the scene of operation) or a hand-held two-
way radio, capable of summoning external emergency assistance, unless 
such a device is not required under paragraph (a)(8)(ii) of this 
section.
    (v) Required aisle space. The small quantity generator must 
maintain aisle space to allow the unobstructed movement of personnel, 
fire protection equipment, spill control equipment, and decontamination 
equipment to any area of site operation in an emergency, unless aisle 
space is not needed for any of these purposes.
    (vi) Arrangements with local authorities. (A) The small quantity 
generator must make arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning 
Committee for the types and quantities of hazardous waste handled at 
the site, as well as the potential need for the

[[Page 57998]]

services of the local police department, other emergency response 
teams, emergency response contractors, equipment suppliers and local 
hospitals. Should there be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, 
should it not respond, or should the Local Emergency Planning Committee 
determine that it is not the appropriate organization to make 
arrangements with, then the small quantity generator must make 
arrangements with the local fire department and other relevant 
emergency responders, (e.g., police and hospitals).
    (1) A small quantity generator that must make arrangements with its 
local fire department must determine the potential need for the 
services of the local police department, other emergency response 
teams, emergency response contractors, equipment suppliers and local 
hospitals.
    (2) As part of this coordination, the small quantity generator 
shall make arrangements, as necessary, to familiarize the above 
organizations with the layout of the site, the properties of hazardous 
waste handled at the site and associated hazards, places where site 
personnel would normally be working, entrances to roads inside the 
site, and possible evacuation routes as well as the types of injuries 
or illnesses that could result from fires, explosions, or releases at 
the site.
    (3) Where more than one police or fire department might respond to 
an emergency, the small quantity generator shall enter into agreements 
designating primary emergency authority to a specific fire or police 
department, and agreements with any others to provide support to the 
primary emergency authority.
    (B) A small quantity generator shall maintain records documenting 
the arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning Committee, or if 
appropriate, with the local fire department as well as any other 
organization necessary to respond to an emergency. This documentation 
must include a certified letter or any other documentation that 
confirms such arrangements actively exist.
    (9) Emergency procedures. The small quantity generator complies 
with the following conditions for those areas of the generator site 
where hazardous waste is generated and accumulated:
    (i) At all times there must be at least one employee either on the 
premises or on call (i.e., available to respond to an emergency by 
reaching the site within a short period of time) with the 
responsibility for coordinating all emergency response measures 
specified in paragraph (b)(9)(iv) of this section. This employee is the 
emergency coordinator.
    (ii) The small quantity generator must post the following 
information next to telephones or in areas directly involved in the 
generation and accumulation of hazardous waste:
    (A) The name and emergency telephone number of the emergency 
coordinator;
    (B) Location of fire extinguishers and spill control material, and, 
if present, fire alarm; and
    (C) The telephone number of the fire department, unless the site 
has a direct alarm.
    (iii) The small quantity generator must ensure that all employees 
are thoroughly familiar with proper waste handling and emergency 
procedures, relevant to their responsibilities during normal site 
operations and emergencies;
    (iv) The emergency coordinator or his designee must respond to any 
emergencies that arise. The applicable responses are as follows:
    (A) In the event of a fire, call the fire department or attempt to 
extinguish it using a fire extinguisher;
    (B) In the event of a spill, the small quantity generator is 
responsible for containing the flow of hazardous waste to the extent 
possible, and as soon as is practicable, cleaning up the hazardous 
waste and any contaminated materials or soil. Such containment and 
cleanup can be conducted either by the small quantity generator or by a 
contractor on behalf of the small quantity generator;
    (C) In the event of a fire, explosion, or other release that could 
threaten human health outside the site or when the small quantity 
generator has knowledge that a spill has reached surface water, the 
small quantity generator must immediately notify the National Response 
Center (using their 24-hour toll free number 800/424-8802). The report 
must include the following information:
    (1) The name, address, and U.S. EPA Identification Number of the 
small quantity generator;
    (2) Date, time, and type of incident (e.g., spill or fire);
    (3) Quantity and type of hazardous waste involved in the incident;
    (4) Extent of injuries, if any; and
    (5) Estimated quantity and disposition of recovered materials, if 
any.
    (c) Mixing hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste. A small 
quantity generator may mix its hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste 
and remain eligible for the conditional exemption applicable to a small 
quantity generator provided that either paragraph (c)(1) or (2) of this 
section is met.
    (1) The mixture is not a hazardous waste according to the mixture 
rules in Sec. Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv), (b)(2) and (3), and (g)(2)(i); or
    (2) If the mixture is a hazardous waste, the mixture does not cause 
the generator to exceed the small quantity generator quantity limits 
for a calendar month, as identified in the definition of small quantity 
generator at Sec.  260.10 of this chapter. If the mixture does exceed 
the small quantity generator quantity limits, a small quantity 
generator, to remain exempt from the permitting and interim status 
standards, must meet the conditions for exemption applicable to a large 
quantity generator.
    (d) Transporting over 200 miles. A small quantity generator who 
must transport its waste, or offer its waste for transportation, over a 
distance of 200 miles or more for off-site treatment, storage or 
disposal may accumulate hazardous waste on site for 270 days or less 
without a permit or without having interim status provided that the 
generator complies with the conditions of paragraph (a) of this 
section.
    (e) Accumulation time limit extension. A small quantity generator 
who accumulates hazardous waste for more than 180 days (or for more 
than 270 days if it must transport its waste, or offer its waste for 
transportation, over a distance of 200 miles or more) is an operator of 
a storage facility and is subject to the requirements of 40 CFR parts 
264, 265, 267, 268, and 270 and the permit requirements of 40 CFR part 
270 unless it has been granted an extension to the 180-day (or 270-day 
if applicable) period. Such extension may be granted by EPA if 
hazardous wastes must remain on site for longer than 180 days (or 270 
days if applicable) due to unforeseen, temporary, and uncontrollable 
circumstances. An extension of up to 30 days may be granted at the 
discretion of the Regional Administrator on a case-by-case basis.
    (f) Rejected load. A small quantity generator who sends a shipment 
of hazardous waste to a designated facility with the understanding that 
the designated facility can accept and manage the waste and later 
receives that shipment back as a rejected load or residue in accordance 
with the manifest discrepancy provisions of Sec.  264.72 or 265.72 of 
this chapter may accumulate the returned waste on site in accordance 
with paragraphs (a), (c), and (d) of this section. Upon receipt of the 
returned shipment, the generator must:
    (i) Sign Item 18c of the manifest, if the transporter returned the 
shipment using the original manifest; or
    (ii) Sign Item 20 of the manifest, if the transporter returned the 
shipment using a new manifest.

[[Page 57999]]

    (g) A small quantity generator experiencing an episodic event may 
accumulate hazardous waste in accordance with subpart L of this part in 
lieu of Sec.  262.17.


Sec.  262.17  Conditions for exemption for a large quantity generator 
that accumulates hazardous waste.

    A large quantity generator may accumulate hazardous waste on-site 
without a permit or interim status, and without complying with the 
independent requirements of parts 124, 264 through 268, and 270 of this 
chapter, provided that all of the conditions for exemption listed in 
this section are met:
    (a) Accumulation. A large quantity generator accumulates hazardous 
waste on site for no more than 90 days, unless in compliance with the 
accumulation time limit extension or F006 accumulation conditions for 
exemption in Sec.  262.17(b) through (e). The following accumulation 
conditions also apply:
    (1) Accumulation in containers. If the hazardous waste is placed in 
containers, the large quantity generator must comply with the 
following:
    (i) Air emission standards. The applicable requirements of subparts 
AA, BB, and CC of 40 CFR part 265;
    (ii) Condition of containers. If a container holding hazardous 
waste is not in good condition, or if it begins to leak, the large 
quantity generator must transfer the hazardous waste from this 
container to a container that is in good condition, or manage the waste 
in some other way that complies with the conditions for exemption of 
this section;
    (iii) Compatibility of waste with container. The large quantity 
generator must use a container made of or lined with materials that 
will not react with, and are otherwise compatible with, the hazardous 
waste to be stored, so that the ability of the container to contain the 
waste is not impaired;
    (iv) Management of containers. (A) A container holding hazardous 
waste must always be closed during accumulation, except when it is 
necessary to add or remove waste.
    (B) A container holding hazardous waste must not be opened, 
handled, or stored in a manner that may rupture the container or cause 
it to leak.
    (v) Inspections. At least weekly, the large quantity generator must 
inspect central accumulation areas. The large quantity generator must 
look for leaking containers and for deterioration of containers caused 
by corrosion or other factors. See paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of this section 
for remedial action required if deterioration or leaks are detected.
    (vi) Special conditions for accumulation of ignitable and reactive 
wastes. (A) Containers holding ignitable or reactive waste must be 
located at least 15 meters (50 feet) from the site's property line 
unless a written waiver is obtained from the local fire department 
allowing hazardous waste accumulation to occur within this restricted 
area. Record of this approval must be maintained as long as ignitable 
or reactive hazardous waste is accumulated in this area.
    (B) The large quantity generator must take precautions to prevent 
accidental ignition or reaction of ignitable or reactive waste. This 
waste must be separated and protected from sources of ignition or 
reaction including but not limited to the following: open flames, 
smoking, cutting and welding, hot surfaces, frictional heat, sparks 
(static, electrical, or mechanical), spontaneous ignition (e.g., from 
heat-producing chemical reactions), and radiant heat. While ignitable 
or reactive waste is being handled, the large quantity generator must 
confine smoking and open flame to specially designated locations. ``No 
Smoking'' signs must be conspicuously placed wherever there is a hazard 
from ignitable or reactive waste.
    (vii) Special conditions for accumulation of incompatible wastes. 
(A) Incompatible wastes, or incompatible wastes and materials, (see 
appendix V of part 265 for examples) must not be placed in the same 
container, unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is complied with.
    (B) Hazardous waste must not be placed in an unwashed container 
that previously held an incompatible waste or material (see appendix V 
of part 265 for examples), unless Sec.  265.17(b) of this chapter is 
complied with.
    (C) A container holding a hazardous waste that is incompatible with 
any waste or other materials accumulated or stored nearby in other 
containers, piles, open tanks, or surface impoundments must be 
separated from the other materials or protected from them by means of a 
dike, berm, wall, or other device.
    (2) Accumulation in tanks. If the waste is placed in tanks, the 
large quantity generator must comply with the applicable requirements 
of subparts J, AA, BB, and CC of 40 CFR part 265 except Sec.  
265.197(c) of Closure and post-closure care and Sec.  265.200--Waste 
analysis and trial tests.
    (3) Accumulation on drip pads. If the waste is placed on drip pads, 
the large quantity generator must comply with subpart W of 40 CFR part 
265 and maintain at the facility the following records by use of 
inventory logs, monitoring equipment records, or any other effective 
means:
    (i) A written description of procedures that will identify the date 
hazardous waste first entered the drip pad and ensure that all wastes 
are removed from the drip pad and associated collection system at least 
once every 90 days; and
    (ii) Documentation of each waste removal, including the quantity of 
waste removed from the drip pad and the sump or collection system and 
the date and time of removal.
    (4) Accumulation in Containment Buildings. (i) If the waste is 
placed in containment buildings, the large quantity generator must 
comply with subpart DD of 40 CFR part 265 and must place its 
professional engineer certification that the building complies with the 
design standards specified in 40 CFR 265.1101 in the generator's files 
prior to operation of the unit.
    (ii) The large quantity generator shall maintain the following 
records by use of inventory logs, monitoring equipment records, or any 
other effective means:
    (A) A written description of procedures to ensure that each waste 
volume remains in the unit for no more than 90 days, a written 
description of the waste generation and management practices for the 
site showing that they are consistent with respecting the 90 day limit, 
and documentation that the procedures are complied with; or
    (B) Documentation that the unit is emptied at least once every 90 
days.
    (5) Labeling and marking of containers, tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings--(i) Containers. A large quantity generator must 
mark its containers with the following:
    (A) The words ``Hazardous Waste'';
    (B) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D)'';
    (C) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard

[[Page 58000]]

Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard label 
consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 704; a 
hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (D) The date upon which each period of accumulation begins clearly 
visible for inspection on each container.
    (ii) Tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings. A large quantity 
generator accumulating hazardous waste in tanks, drip pads, and 
containment buildings must do the following:
    (A) Mark or label its waste accumulation units with the words 
``Hazardous Waste.'' In the case of hazardous wastes accumulated in 
drip pads and containment buildings, generators must label their drip 
pads and containment buildings with the words ``Hazardous Waste'' in a 
conspicuous place easily visible to employees, visitors, emergency 
responders, waste handlers, etc.
    (B) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment, or records to 
identify the contents of the tank, drip pad or containment building and 
its associated hazards.
    (C) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment or records to identify 
the date upon which each period of accumulation begins; and
    (D) Keep inventory logs or records with the above information in 
close proximity to the tank, drip pad, or containment building.
    (6) Emergency procedures. The large quantity generator complies 
with the standards in subpart M of this part, Preparedness, Prevention 
and Emergency Procedures for Large Quantity Generators.
    (7) Personnel training. (i)(A) Site personnel must successfully 
complete a program of classroom instruction, online training, or on-
the-job training that teaches them to perform their duties in a way 
that ensures compliance with this part. The large quantity generator 
must ensure that this program includes all the elements described in 
the document required under paragraph (a)(7)(iv) of this section.
    (B) This program must be directed by a person trained in hazardous 
waste management procedures, and must include instruction which teaches 
site personnel hazardous waste management procedures (including 
contingency plan implementation) relevant to the positions in which 
they are employed.
    (C) At a minimum, the training program must be designed to ensure 
that site personnel are able to respond effectively to emergencies by 
familiarizing them with emergency procedures, emergency equipment, and 
emergency systems, including where applicable:
    (1) Procedures for using, inspecting, repairing, and replacing site 
emergency and monitoring equipment;
    (2) Key parameters for automatic waste feed cut-off systems;
    (3) Communications or alarm systems;
    (4) Response to fires or explosions;
    (5) Response to ground-water contamination incidents; and
    (6) Shutdown of operations.
    (D) For site employees that receive emergency response training 
pursuant to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations 
29 CFR 1910.120(p)(8) and 1910.120(q), the large quantity generator is 
not required to provide separate emergency response training pursuant 
to this section, provided that the overall site training meets all the 
conditions of exemption in this section.
    (ii) Site personnel must successfully complete the program required 
in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section within six months after the 
effective date of these regulations or six months after the date of 
their employment or assignment to the site, or to a new position at the 
site, whichever is later. Employees hired after the effective date of 
these regulations must not work in unsupervised positions until they 
have completed the training standards of paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this 
section.
    (iii) Site personnel must take part in an annual review of the 
initial training required in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section.
    (iv) The large quantity generator must maintain the following 
documents and records at the site:
    (A) The job title for each position at the site related to 
hazardous waste management, and the name of the employee filling each 
job;
    (B) A written job description for each position listed under 
paragraph (a)(7)(iv)(A) of this section. This description may be 
consistent in its degree of specificity with descriptions for other 
similar positions in the same company location or bargaining unit, but 
must include the requisite skill, education, or other qualifications, 
and duties of site personnel assigned to each position;
    (C) A written description of the type and amount of both 
introductory and continuing training that will be given to each person 
filling a position listed under paragraph (a)(7)(iv)(A) of this 
section;
    (D) Records that document that the training or job experience, 
required under paragraphs (a)(7)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this section, 
has been given to, and completed by, site personnel.
    (v) Training records on current personnel must be kept until 
closure of the site. Training records on former employees must be kept 
for at least three years from the date the employee last worked at the 
site. Personnel training records may accompany personnel transferred 
within the same company.
    (8) Closure. A large quantity generator accumulating hazardous 
wastes in containers, tanks, drip pads, and containment buildings, 
prior to closing a unit that accumulates hazardous waste at the site or 
prior to closing the site must meet the following conditions:
    (i) Notification. (A) Notify EPA no later than 30 days prior to 
closing a unit that accumulates hazardous waste at the site or prior to 
closing the site.
    (B) Notify EPA within 90 days after closure of a unit that 
accumulates hazardous waste at the site or prior to closing the site 
that it has either clean closed (e.g., complied with the applicable 
closure performance standards of Sec.  262.17(a)(8)(ii)) or, if it 
cannot clean close, notify as a landfill under Sec.  265.310 of this 
chapter.
    (ii) Closure performance standards. (A) At closure, the generator 
must close the waste accumulation unit or site in a manner that:
    (1) Minimizes the need for further maintenance by controlling, 
minimizing, or eliminating, to the extent necessary to protect human 
health and the environment, the post-closure escape of hazardous waste, 
hazardous constituents, leachate, contaminated run-off, or hazardous 
waste decomposition products to the ground or surface waters or to the 
atmosphere,
    (2) Properly disposes of or decontaminates all contaminated 
equipment, structures and soil and any remaining hazardous waste 
residues from waste accumulation units including containment system 
components (pads, liners, etc.), contaminated soils and subsoils, 
bases, and structures and equipment contaminated with waste. Any 
hazardous waste residues remaining in the unit(s) being closed must be 
removed from the unit(s). Any leakage must also be decontaminated or 
removed and managed as a hazardous waste unless Sec.  261.3(d) of this 
chapter applies.
    (3) Any hazardous waste generated in the process of closing either 
the

[[Page 58001]]

generator's site or unit(s) accumulating hazardous waste must be 
managed in accordance with all applicable standards of parts 260 
through 270 of this chapter, including removing any hazardous waste 
contained in these units within 90 days of generating it and managing 
these wastes in a RCRA Subtitle C hazardous waste permitted treatment, 
storage and disposal facility or interim status facility.
    (4) If the generator demonstrates that any contaminated soils and 
wastes cannot be practicably removed or decontaminated as required in 
paragraph (a)(8)(ii)(A)(2) of this section, then the waste accumulation 
unit is considered to be a landfill and the generator must close the 
waste accumulation unit and perform post-closure care in accordance 
with the closure and post-closure care requirements that apply to 
landfills (Sec.  265.310 of this chapter). In addition, for the 
purposes of closure, post-closure, and financial responsibility, such a 
waste accumulation unit is then considered to be a landfill, and the 
generator must meet all of the requirements for landfills specified in 
subparts G and H of part 265 of this chapter.
    (9) Land disposal restrictions. The large quantity generator 
complies with all applicable requirements under 40 CFR part 268.
    (b) Accumulation time limit extension. A large quantity generator 
who accumulates hazardous waste for more than 90 days is an operator of 
a storage facility and is subject to the requirements of 40 CFR parts 
264, 265, 267, and 268, and the permit requirements of 40 CFR part 270 
unless it has been granted an extension to the 90-day period. Such 
extension may be granted by EPA if hazardous wastes must remain on site 
for longer than 90 days due to unforeseen, temporary, and 
uncontrollable circumstances. An extension of up to 30 days may be 
granted at the discretion of the Regional Administrator on a case-by-
case basis.
    (c) Accumulation of F006. A large quantity generator who also 
generates wastewater treatment sludges from electroplating operations 
that meet the listing description for the EPA hazardous waste number 
F006, may accumulate F006 waste on site for more than 90 days, but not 
more than 180 days without a permit or without having interim status 
provided that it complies with all of the following conditions:
    (1) The large quantity generator has implemented pollution 
prevention practices that reduce the amount of any hazardous 
substances, pollutants, or contaminants entering F006 or otherwise 
released to the environment prior to its recycling;
    (2) The F006 waste is legitimately recycled through metals 
recovery;
    (3) No more than 20,000 kilograms of F006 waste is accumulated on 
site at any one time; and
    (4) The F006 waste is managed in accordance with the following:
    (i)(A) If the F006 waste is placed in containers, the large 
quantity generator must comply with the applicable conditions for 
exemption in Sec.  262.17(a)(1); and/or
    (B) If the F006 is placed in tanks, the large quantity generator 
must comply with the applicable conditions for exemption of Sec.  
262.17(a)(2); and/or
    (C) If the F006 is placed in containment buildings, the large 
quantity generator must comply with subpart DD of 40 CFR part 265, and 
has placed its professional engineer certification that the building 
complies with the design standards specified in 40 CFR 265.1101 in the 
site's files prior to operation of the unit. The large quantity 
generator must maintain the following records:
    (1) A written description of procedures to ensure that the F006 
waste remains in the unit for no more than 180 days, a written 
description of the waste generation and management practices for the 
site showing that they are consistent with the 180-day limit, and 
documentation that the large quantity generator is complying with the 
procedures; or
    (2) Documentation that the unit is emptied at least once every 180 
days.
    (ii) The large quantity generator is exempt from all the 
requirements in subparts G and H of 40 CFR part 265, except for those 
referenced in Sec.  262.17(a)(8).
    (iii) The date upon which each period of accumulation begins is 
clearly marked and must be clearly visible for inspection on each 
container;
    (iv) While being accumulated on site, each container and tank is 
labeled or marked clearly with:
    (A) The words ``Hazardous Waste'';
    (B) Other words that identify the contents of the container or 
tank; and
    (C) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (v) The large quantity generator complies with the requirements in 
Sec. Sec.  262.17(a)(6) and (7).
    (d) F006 transported over 200 miles. A large quantity generator who 
also generates wastewater treatment sludges from electroplating 
operations that meet the listing description for the EPA hazardous 
waste number F006, and who must transport this waste, or offer this 
waste for transportation, over a distance of 200 miles or more for off-
site metals recovery, may accumulate F006 waste on site for more than 
90 days, but not more than 270 days without a permit or without having 
interim status if the large quantity generator complies with all of the 
conditions for exemption of paragraphs (c)(1) through (4) of this 
section.
    (e) F006 accumulation time extension. A large quantity generator 
accumulating F006 in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (d) of this 
section who accumulates F006 waste on site for more than 180 days (or 
for more than 270 days if the generator must transport this waste, or 
offer this waste for transportation, over a distance of 200 miles or 
more), or who accumulates more than 20,000 kilograms of F006 waste on 
site is an operator of a storage facility and is subject to the 
requirements of 40 CFR parts 264, 265, and 267, and the permit 
requirements of 40 CFR part 270 unless the generator has been granted 
an extension to the 180-day (or 270-day if applicable) period or an 
exception to the 20,000 kilogram accumulation limit. Such extensions 
and exceptions may be granted by EPA if F006 waste must remain on site 
for longer than 180 days (or 270 days if applicable) or if more than 
20,000 kilograms of F006 waste must remain on site due to unforeseen, 
temporary, and uncontrollable circumstances. An extension of up to 30 
days or an exception to the accumulation limit may be granted at the 
discretion of the Regional Administrator on a case-by-case basis.
    (f) Mixing hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste. Mixtures of 
hazardous waste with non-hazardous waste are subject to the mixture 
rule in Sec. Sec.  261.3(a)(2)(iv), (b)(2) and (3), and (g)(2)(i).
    (g) Consolidation of hazardous waste received from very small 
quantity generators. Large quantity generators may receive hazardous 
waste from very

[[Page 58002]]

small quantity generators under control of the same person (as defined 
in Sec.  260.10), provided that they comply with the following 
conditions. ``Control,'' for the purposes of this section, means the 
power to direct the policies of the generator site, whether by the 
ownership of stock, voting rights, or otherwise, except that 
contractors who operate generator sites on behalf of a different person 
shall not be deemed to ``control'' such generator sites.
    (1) The large quantity generator notifies EPA thirty (30) days 
prior to receiving the first shipment from a very small quantity 
generator(s) using EPA form 8700-12; and
    (i) Identifies on the form the name(s) and site address(es) for the 
very small quantity generator(s) as well as the name and business 
telephone number for a contact person for the very small quantity 
generator(s); and
    (ii) Submits an updated Site ID form (EPA form 8700-12) within 30 
days after a change in the name, site address, or contact information 
for the very small quantity generator.
    (2) The large quantity generator maintains records of shipments for 
three years from the date the hazardous waste was received from the 
very small quantity generator. These records must identify the name, 
site address, and contact information for the very small quantity 
generator and include a description of the hazardous waste received, 
including the quantity, all applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) 
(EPA hazardous waste codes) in subparts C and D of part 261 for the 
hazardous waste, and the date the waste was received.
    (3) The large quantity generator manages all hazardous waste 
received from a very small quantity generator in compliance with the 
independent requirements in Sec.  262.10(a)(1)(ii) and conditions for 
exemption in Sec.  262.17 applicable to a large quantity generator. For 
purposes of the labeling and marking regulations in Sec.  262.17(a)(5), 
the large quantity generator must label the container or unit with the 
date accumulation started (i.e., the date the hazardous waste was 
received from the very small quantity generator). If the large quantity 
generator is consolidating incoming hazardous waste from a very small 
quantity generator with either its own hazardous waste or with 
hazardous waste from other very small quantity generators, the large 
quantity generator must label each container or unit with the earliest 
date any hazardous waste in the container was accumulated on site.
    (h) Rejected load. A large quantity generator who sends a shipment 
of hazardous waste to a designated facility with the understanding that 
the designated facility can accept and manage the waste and later 
receives that shipment back as a rejected load or residue in accordance 
with the manifest discrepancy provisions of Sec.  264.72 or 265.72 of 
this chapter may accumulate the returned waste on site in accordance 
with paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section. Upon receipt of the 
returned shipment, the generator must:
    (1) Sign Item 18c of the manifest, if the transporter returned the 
shipment using the original manifest; or
    (2) Sign Item 20 of the manifest, if the transporter returned the 
shipment using a new manifest.


Sec.  262.18  EPA identification numbers and re-notification for small 
quantity generators and large quantity generators.

    (a) A generator must not treat, store, dispose of, transport, or 
offer for transportation, hazardous waste without having received an 
EPA identification number from the Administrator.
    (b) A generator who has not received an EPA identification number 
may obtain one by applying to the Administrator using EPA form 8700-12. 
Upon receiving the request the Administrator will assign an EPA 
identification number to the generator.
    (c) A generator must not offer its hazardous waste to transporters 
or to treatment, storage, or disposal facilities that have not received 
an EPA identification number.
    (d) Re-notification. (i) A small quantity generator must notify EPA 
by February 1 of each even-numbered year thereafter using EPA Form 
8700-12.
    (ii) A large quantity generator must notify EPA by March 1 of each 
even-numbered year thereafter using EPA Form 8700-12. A large quantity 
generator may submit this re-notification as part of its biennial 
report required under Sec.  262.41.
0
18. Revise the heading for subpart B to read as follows:

Subpart B--Manifest Requirements Applicable to Small and Large 
Quantity Generators

0
19. Revise the heading for subpart C to read as follows:

Subpart C--Pre-Transport Requirements Applicable to Small and Large 
Quantity Generators

0
20. Amend Sec.  262.32 by adding paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  262.32  Marking.

* * * * *
    (c) Before transporting or offering hazardous waste for 
transportation off site, a generator must mark each container with the 
applicable EPA hazardous waste numbers (EPA hazardous waste codes) in 
subparts C and D of part 261 of this chapter.


Sec.  262.34  [Removed and reserved]

0
21. Remove and reserve Sec.  262.34.
0
22. Add Sec.  262.35 to subpart C read as follows:


Sec.  262.35  Liquids in landfills prohibition.

    The placement of bulk or non-containerized liquid hazardous waste 
or hazardous waste containing free liquids (whether or not sorbents 
have been added) in any landfill is prohibited.
0
23. Revise the heading for subpart D to read as follows:

Subpart D--Recordkeeping and Reporting Applicable to Small and 
Large Quantity Generators


Sec.  262.40  [Amended]

0
24. Amend Sec.  262.40 by removing and reserving paragraph (c).
0
25. Section 262.41 and its section heading are revised to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.41  Biennial report for large quantity generators.

    (a) A generator who is a large quantity generator for at least one 
month of the reporting year must complete and submit EPA form 8700-13 
to the Regional Administrator by March 1 of each even numbered year for 
all hazardous wastes generated during the previous calendar year. This 
requirement also applies to generators who treat, store, or dispose of 
hazardous waste on site in accordance with the provisions of 40 CFR 
parts 264, 265, 266, 267, and 270 and to large quantity generators that 
receive hazardous waste from very small quantity generators pursuant to 
Sec.  262.17(g).
    (b) Exports of hazardous waste to foreign countries are not 
required to be reported on the Biennial Report form. A separate annual 
report requirement is set forth at 40 CFR 262.56 for hazardous waste 
exporters.
0
26. Section 262.43 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  262.43  Additional reporting.

    The Administrator, as deemed necessary under sections 2002(a) and 
3002(a)(6) of the Act, may require generators to furnish additional 
reports concerning the quantities and disposition of wastes identified 
or listed in 40 CFR part 261.
0
27. Section 262.44 is amended by revising the introductory paragraph 
and section heading to read as follows:

[[Page 58003]]

Sec.  262.44  Recordkeeping for small quantity generators.

    A small quantity generator is subject only to the following 
independent requirements in this subpart:
* * * * *

Subparts I and J [Removed and Reserved]

0
28. Remove and reserve subparts I and J.

Subpart K--Alternative Requirements for Hazardous Waste 
Determination and Accumulation of Unwanted Material for 
Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Entities

0
29. Section 262.200 is amended by removing the definition of ``Central 
accumulation area'' and revising the definition of ``Trained 
professional'' to read as follows:


Sec.  262.200  Definitions for this subpart.

* * * * *
    Trained professional means a person who has completed the 
applicable RCRA training requirements of Sec.  262.17 for large 
quantity generators, or is knowledgeable about normal operations and 
emergencies in accordance with Sec.  262.16 for small quantity 
generators and very small quantity generators. A trained professional 
may be an employee of the eligible academic entity or may be a 
contractor or vendor who meets the requisite training requirements.
* * * * *
0
30. Section 262.201 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  262.201  Applicability of this subpart.

    (a) Large quantity generators and small quantity generators. This 
subpart provides alternative requirements to the requirements in 
Sec. Sec.  262.11 and 262.15 for the hazardous waste determination and 
accumulation of hazardous waste in laboratories owned by eligible 
academic entities that choose to be subject to this subpart, provided 
that they complete the notification requirements of Sec.  262.203.
    (b) Very small quantity generators. This subpart provides 
alternative requirements to the conditional exemption in Sec.  262.14 
for the accumulation of hazardous waste in laboratories owned by 
eligible academic entities that choose to be subject to this subpart, 
provided that they complete the notification requirements of Sec.  
262.203.
0
31. Section 262.202 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  262.202  This subpart is optional.

    (a) Large quantity generators and small quantity generators. 
Eligible academic entities have the option of complying with this 
subpart with respect to its laboratories, as an alternative to 
complying with the requirements of Sec. Sec.  262.11 and 262.15.
    (b) Very small quantity generators. Eligible academic entities have 
the option of complying with this subpart with respect to laboratories, 
as an alternative to complying with the conditional exemption of Sec.  
262.14.
0
32. Section 262.203 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) and (b)(2) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  262.203  How an eligible academic entity indicates it will be 
subject to the requirements of this subpart.

    (a) An eligible academic entity must notify the appropriate EPA 
Regional Administrator in writing, using the RCRA Subtitle C Site 
Identification Form (EPA Form 8700-12), that it is electing to be 
subject to the requirements of this subpart for all the laboratories 
owned by the eligible academic entity under the same EPA Identification 
Number. An eligible academic entity that is a very small quantity 
generator and does not have an EPA Identification Number must notify 
that it is electing to be subject to the requirements of this subpart 
for all the laboratories owned by the eligible academic entity that are 
on site, as defined by Sec.  260.10. An eligible academic entity must 
submit a separate notification (Site Identification Form) for each EPA 
Identification Number (or site, for very small quantity generators) 
that is electing to be subject to the requirements of this subpart, and 
must submit the Site Identification Form before it begins operating 
under this subpart.
    (b) * * *
    (2) Site EPA Identification Number (except for very small quantity 
generators).
* * * * *
0
33. Section 262.204 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.204  How an eligible academic entity indicates it will 
withdraw from the requirements of this subpart.

    (a) An eligible academic entity must notify the appropriate EPA 
Regional Administrator in writing, using the RCRA Subtitle C Site 
Identification Form (EPA Form 8700-12), that it is electing to no 
longer be subject to the requirements of this subpart for all the 
laboratories owned by the eligible academic entity under the same EPA 
Identification Number and that it will comply with the requirements of 
Sec. Sec.  262.11 and 262.15 for small quantity generators and large 
quantity generators. An eligible academic entity that is a very small 
quantity generator and does not have an EPA Identification Number must 
notify that it is withdrawing from the requirements of this subpart for 
all the laboratories owned by the eligible academic entity that are on 
site and that it will comply with the conditional exemption in Sec.  
262.14. An eligible academic entity must submit a separate notification 
(Site Identification Form) for each EPA Identification Number (or site, 
for very small quantity generators) that is withdrawing from the 
requirements of this subpart and must submit the Site Identification 
Form before it begins operating under the standards in Sec. Sec.  
262.11 and 262.15 for small quantity generators and large quantity 
generators or Sec.  262.14 for very small quantity generators.
* * * * *


Sec.  262.206  [Amended]

0
34. Amend Sec.  262.206 in paragraph (b)(3)(iii) by removing the period 
at the end of the sentence and inserting ``:'' in its place.
0
35. Section 262.207 is amended by revising paragraph (d)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.207  Training.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (2) Make the hazardous waste determination, pursuant to Sec.  
262.11(a) through (d), for unwanted material.
0
36. Section 262.208 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  262.208  Removing containers of unwanted material from the 
laboratory.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Remove all containers of unwanted material from each laboratory 
on a regular interval, not to exceed 12 months; or
    (2) Remove containers of unwanted material from each laboratory 
within 12 months of each container's accumulation start date.
* * * * *
0
37. Section 262.209 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.209  Where and when to make the hazardous waste determination 
and where to send containers of unwanted material upon removal from the 
laboratory.

* * * * *
    (b) Very small quantity generators. An eligible academic entity 
must ensure that a trained professional makes a hazardous waste 
determination,

[[Page 58004]]

pursuant to Sec.  262.11(a) through (d), for unwanted material in the 
laboratory before the unwanted material is removed from the laboratory, 
in accordance with Sec.  262.210.
0
38. Section 262.210 is amended by revising paragraphs (a), (b)(3), and 
(d)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  262.210  Making the hazardous waste determination in the 
laboratory before the unwanted material is removed from the laboratory.

* * * * *
    (a) A trained professional must make the hazardous waste 
determination, pursuant to Sec.  262.11(a) through (d), before the 
unwanted material is removed from the laboratory.
    (b) * * *
    (3) Count the hazardous waste toward the eligible academic entity's 
generator category, pursuant to Sec.  262.13, in the calendar month 
that the hazardous waste determination was made.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (2) Very small quantity generators must ensure it is taken directly 
from the laboratory(ies) to any of the types of facilities listed in 
Sec.  262.14.
* * * * *
0
39. Section 262.211 is amended by revising paragraphs (c), (d), and 
(e)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  262.211  Making the hazardous waste determination at an on-site 
central accumulation area.

* * * * *
    (c) The unwanted material becomes subject to the generator 
accumulation regulations of Sec.  262.16 for small quantity generators 
or Sec.  262.17 for large quantity generators as soon as it arrives in 
the central accumulation area, except for the ``hazardous waste'' 
labeling conditions of Sec.  262.16(b)(6) and Sec.  262.17(a)(5).
    (d) A trained professional must determine, pursuant to Sec.  
262.11(a) through (d), if the unwanted material is a hazardous waste 
within 4 calendar days of the unwanted materials' arrival at the on-
site central accumulation area.
    (e) * * *
    (3) Count the hazardous waste toward the eligible academic entity's 
generator category, pursuant to Sec.  262.13 in the calendar month that 
the hazardous waste determination was made, and
* * * * *
0
40. Section 262.212 is amended by revising paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.212  Making the hazardous waste determination at an on-site 
interim status or permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility.

* * * * *
    (d) A trained professional must determine, pursuant to Sec.  
262.11(a) through (d), if the unwanted material is a hazardous waste 
within 4 calendar days of the unwanted materials' arrival at an on-site 
interim status or permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility.
* * * * *
0
41. Section 262.213 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(2) and (3) 
and (b)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  262.213  Laboratory clean-outs.

    (a) * * *
    (2) For the purposes of on-site accumulation, an eligible academic 
entity is not required to count a hazardous waste that is an unused 
commercial chemical product (listed in 40 CFR part 261, subpart D or 
exhibiting one or more characteristics in 40 CFR part 261, subpart C) 
generated solely during the laboratory clean-out toward its hazardous 
waste generator category, pursuant to Sec.  262.13. An unwanted 
material that is generated prior to the beginning of the laboratory 
clean-out and is still in the laboratory at the time the laboratory 
clean-out commences must be counted toward hazardous waste generator 
category, pursuant to Sec.  262.13, if it is determined to be hazardous 
waste; and
    (3) For the purposes of off-site management, an eligible academic 
entity must count all its hazardous waste, regardless of whether the 
hazardous waste was counted toward generator category under paragraph 
(a)(2) of this section, and if it generates more than 1 kg/month of 
acute hazardous waste or more than 100 kg/month of non-acute hazardous 
waste (i.e., the very small quantity generator limits as defined in 
Sec.  260.10), the hazardous waste is subject to all applicable 
hazardous waste regulations when it is transported off site; and
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) The requirement to count all hazardous waste, including unused 
hazardous waste, generated during the laboratory clean-out toward its 
hazardous waste generator category, pursuant to Sec.  262.13.
0
42. Section 262.214 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(5) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  262.214  Laboratory management plan.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (5) Describe its intended best practices for making hazardous waste 
determinations, including specifying the duties of the individuals 
involved in the process (see the required standards at Sec.  262.11(a) 
through (d) and Sec. Sec.  262.209 through 262.212).
* * * * *
0
43. Section 262.216 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) and (b) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  262.216  Non-laboratory hazardous waste generated at an eligible 
academic entity.

* * * * *
    (a) Remains subject to the generator requirements of Sec. Sec.  
262.11 and 262.15 for large quantity generators and small quantity 
generators (if the hazardous waste is managed in a satellite 
accumulation area), and all other applicable generator requirements of 
40 CFR part 262, with respect to that hazardous waste; or
    (b) Remains subject to the conditional exemption of Sec.  262.14 
for very small quantity generators, with respect to that hazardous 
waste.
0
44. Subpart L is added to read as follows:

Subpart L--Alternative Standards for Episodic Generation
Sec.
262.230 Applicability.
262.231 Definition of an episodic event.
262.232 Conditions for a generator managing hazardous waste from an 
episodic event.
262.233 Petition to manage one additional episodic event per 
calendar year.
262.234 Petition for a 30-day extension to an episodic event.

Subpart L--Alternative Standards for Episodic Generation


Sec.  262.230  Applicability.

    This subpart is applicable to very small quantity generators and 
small quantity generators as defined in Sec.  260.10.


Sec.  262.231  Definition of an episodic event.

    An episodic event is an activity or activities, either planned or 
unplanned, that does not normally occur during generator operations, 
resulting in an increase in the generation of hazardous wastes that 
exceeds the calendar month quantity limits for the generator's usual 
category.


Sec.  262.232  Conditions for a generator managing hazardous waste from 
an episodic event.

    (a) Very small quantity generator. A very small quantity generator 
may maintain its existing generator category during an episodic event 
provided that

[[Page 58005]]

the generator complies with the following conditions:
    (1) The very small quantity generator is limited to one episodic 
event per calendar year unless a petition is granted under Sec.  
262.233;
    (2) The very small quantity generator must notify EPA no later than 
thirty (30) calendar days prior to initiating a planned episodic event 
using EPA form 8700-12. In the event of an unplanned episodic event, 
the generator must notify EPA within 24 hours of the unplanned event or 
as soon as possible via phone or email and subsequently submit EPA form 
8700-12. The generator shall include the start date of the episodic 
event, the reason(s) for the event, types and estimated quantities of 
hazardous waste expected to be generated as a result of the episodic 
event, and shall identify a facility contact and emergency coordinator 
with 24-hour telephone access to discuss the notification submittal or 
respond to an emergency;
    (3) The very small quantity generator must have an EPA 
identification number or obtain an EPA identification number using EPA 
form 8700-12;
    (4) Accumulation. A very small quantity generator is prohibited 
from accumulating hazardous waste generated from an episodic event on 
drip pads and in containment buildings. When accumulating hazardous 
waste in containers and tanks the following conditions apply:
    (i) Containers. A very small quantity generator accumulating in 
containers must mark its containers with the following:
    (A) The words ``Episodic Hazardous Waste;''
    (B) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D);
    (C) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (D) The date upon which the episodic event began, clearly visible 
for inspection on each container.
    (ii) Tanks. A very small quantity generator accumulating episodic 
hazardous waste in tanks must do the following:
    (A) Mark or label the tank with the words ``Episodic Hazardous 
Waste;''
    (B) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment, or records to 
identify the contents of the tank and its associated hazards;
    (C) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment or records to identify 
the date upon which each episodic event begins; and
    (D) Keep inventory logs or records with the above information in 
close proximity to the tank.
    (iii) Hazardous waste must be managed in a manner that minimizes 
the possibility of a fire, explosion, or release of hazardous waste or 
hazardous waste constituents to the air, soil, or water;
    (A) Containers must be in good condition and compatible with the 
hazardous waste being accumulated therein. Containers must be kept 
closed except to add or remove waste.
    (B) Tanks must be in good condition and compatible with the 
hazardous waste accumulated therein. Tanks must have procedures in 
place to prevent the overflow (e.g., be equipped with a means to stop 
inflow with systems such as a waste feed cutoff system or bypass system 
to a standby tank when hazardous waste is continuously fed into the 
tank). Tanks must be inspected at least once each operating day to 
ensure all applicable discharge control equipment, such as waste feed 
cutoff systems, bypass systems, and drainage systems are in good 
working order and to ensure the tank is operated according to its 
design by reviewing the data gathered from monitoring equipment such as 
pressure and temperature gauges from the inspection.
    (5) The very small quantity generator must comply with the 
hazardous waste manifest provisions of 40 CFR part 262 subpart B when 
it sends its episodic event hazardous waste off site to a RCRA-
designated facility.
    (6) The very small quantity generator has up to forty-five (45) 
calendar days from the start of the episodic event to manifest and send 
its hazardous waste generated from the episodic event to a RCRA-
designated facility unless an extension is granted pursuant to Sec.  
262.233.
    (7) Very small quantity generators must maintain the following 
records for three (3) years from the end date of the episodic event:
    (i) Beginning and end dates of the episodic event;
    (ii) A description of the episodic event;
    (iii) A description of the types and quantities of hazardous wastes 
generated during the event;
    (iv) A description of how the hazardous waste was managed as well 
as the name of the RCRA designated facility that received the hazardous 
waste;
    (v) Name(s) of hazardous waste transporters;
    (vi) An approval letter from EPA if the generator petitioned to 
conduct one additional episodic event per calendar year; and
    (vii) An approval letter from EPA if the generator petitioned for 
an additional thirty (30) calendar day extension.
    (b) Small quantity generators. A small quantity generator may 
maintain its existing generator category during an episodic event 
provided that the generator complies with the following conditions:
    (1) The small generator is limited to one episodic event per 
calendar year unless a petition is granted under Sec.  262.233;
    (2) The small quantity generator must notify EPA no later than 
thirty (30) calendar days prior to initiating a planned episodic event 
using EPA form 8700-12. In the event of an unplanned episodic event, 
the small quantity generator must notify EPA within 24 hours of the 
unplanned event or as soon as possible via phone or email and 
subsequently submit EPA form 8700-12. The small quantity generator 
shall include the start date of the episodic event and the reason(s) 
for the event, types and estimated quantities of hazardous wastes 
expected to be generated as a result of the episodic event, and 
identify a facility contact and emergency coordinator with 24-hour 
telephone access to discuss the notification submittal or respond to 
emergency;.
    (3) The small quantity generator must have an EPA identification 
number or obtain an EPA identification number using EPA form 8700-12.
    (4) Accumulation by small quantity generators. A small quantity 
generator is prohibited from accumulating

[[Page 58006]]

hazardous wastes generated from an episodic event waste on drip pads 
and in containment buildings. When accumulating hazardous waste 
generated from an episodic event in containers and tanks, the following 
conditions apply:
    (i) Containers. A small quantity generator accumulating episodic 
hazardous waste in containers that meet the standards at part 265 
subpart I of this chapter, except Sec. Sec.  265.176 and 265.178 of 
this chapter, must mark its containers with the following:
    (A) The words ``Episodic Hazardous Waste'';
    (B) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or halogenated 
organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping name and 
technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D);
    (C) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; or a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking or labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit); and
    (D) The date upon which the episodic event began, clearly visible 
for inspection on each container.
    (ii) Tanks. A small quantity generator accumulating episodic 
hazardous waste in tanks that meet the standards at Sec.  265.201 in 
subpart J must do the following:
    (A) Mark or label its tank with the words ``Episodic Hazardous 
Waste;''
    (B) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment, or records to 
identify the contents of the tank and its associated hazards;
    (C) Use inventory logs, monitoring equipment or records to identify 
the date upon which each period of accumulation begins and ends; and
    (D) Keep inventory logs or records with the above information 
immediately accessible.
    (iii) Comply with the applicable conditions listed in Sec.  262.16.
    (5) The small quantity generator must treat hazardous waste 
generated from an episodic event on site or manifest and ship such 
hazardous waste off site to a RCRA-designated facility within forty-
five (45) calendar days from the start of the episodic event, unless an 
extension is granted pursuant to Sec.  262.233.
    (6) The small quantity generator must maintain the following 
records for three (3) years from the end date of the episodic event:
    (i) Beginning and end dates of the episodic event;
    (ii) A description of the episodic event;
    (iii) A description of the types and quantities of hazardous wastes 
generated during the event;
    (iv) A description of how the hazardous waste was managed as well 
as the name of the RCRA designated facility that received the hazardous 
waste;
    (v) Name(s) of hazardous waste transporters;
    (vi) An approval letter from EPA if the generator petitioned to 
conduct one additional episodic event per calendar year; and
    (vii) An approval letter from EPA if the generator petitioned for 
an additional thirty (30) calendar day extension.


Sec.  262.233  Petition to manage one additional episodic event per 
calendar year.

    (a) A very small quantity generator or a small quantity generator 
may petition EPA for one additional episodic event per calendar year 
without it impacting its generator category. The petition must include 
the following:
    (1) The reason(s) why an additional episodic event is needed and 
the nature of the episodic event;
    (2) The estimated amount of hazardous waste to be managed from the 
event;
    (3) How the hazardous waste is to be managed;
    (4) The estimated length of time needed to complete management of 
the hazardous waste generated from the episodic event--not to exceed 45 
days; and
    (5) Information regarding the previous episodic event managed by 
the generator, including the nature of the event and whether it was a 
planned or unplanned event.
    (b) The petition must be made via fax, email, or letter.
    (c) The generator cannot manage the hazardous waste generated from 
an additional episodic event under subpart L until written approval by 
EPA, including email, has been received.
    (d) The generator must retain written approval in its records for 
three years from the date the episodic event ended.


Sec.  262.234  Petition for a 30-day extension to an episodic event.

    (a) The very small quantity generator or a small quantity generator 
may petition EPA for a thirty (30) calendar day extension to complete 
the management of hazardous waste generated by an episodic event. The 
petition must include the following:
    (1) The nature of the episodic event;
    (2) The estimated amount of additional hazardous waste to be 
managed from the episodic event if the extension is granted; and
    (3) The generator's rationale for needing an extension of an 
additional 30 days beyond the 45-day limit to complete management of 
the hazardous waste generated from the episodic event.
    (b) The generator must petition EPA via fax, email, or letter 
within fifteen (15) calendar days of the event ending.
    (c) The generator cannot go beyond the 45-day limit unless written 
approval from EPA has been received.
    (d) The generator must retain written approval in its records for 
three years from the date the episodic event ended.
0
45. Subpart M is added to read as follows:
Subpart M--Preparedness, Prevention, and Emergency Procedures for Large 
Quantity Generators
Sec.
262.250 Applicability.
262.251 Maintenance and operation of facility.
262.252 Required equipment.
262.253 Testing and maintenance of equipment.
262.254 Access to communications or alarm system.
262.255 Required aisle space.
262.256 Arrangements with local authorities.
262.260 Purpose and implementation of contingency plan.
262.261 Content of contingency plan.
262.262 Copies of contingency plan.
262.263 Amendment of contingency plan.
262.264 Emergency coordinator.
262.265 Emergency procedures.

Subpart M--Preparedness, Prevention, and Emergency Procedures for 
Large Quantity Generators


Sec.  262.250  Applicability.

    The regulations of this subpart apply to those areas of a large 
quantity generator where hazardous waste is generated or accumulated on 
site in

[[Page 58007]]

accordance with the conditions in Sec.  262.17.


Sec.  262.251  Maintenance and operation of facility.

    A large quantity generator must maintain and operate its site to 
minimize the possibility of a fire, explosion, or any unplanned sudden 
or non-sudden release of hazardous waste or hazardous waste 
constituents to air, soil, or surface water which could threaten human 
health or the environment.


Sec.  262.252  Required equipment.

    All areas where hazardous waste is being either generated or 
accumulated must be equipped with the items in paragraphs (a) through 
(d) of this section (unless none of the hazards posed by waste handled 
at the site could require a particular kind of equipment specified 
below or the actual waste generation or accumulation area does not lend 
itself for safety reasons to have a particular kind of equipment 
specified below). A large quantity generator may determine the most 
appropriate locations within its generator site to locate equipment 
necessary to prepare for and respond to emergencies:
    (a) An internal communications or alarm system capable of providing 
immediate emergency instruction (voice or signal) to site personnel;
    (b) A device, such as a telephone (immediately available at the 
scene of operations) or a hand-held two-way radio, capable of summoning 
emergency assistance from local police departments, fire departments, 
or state or local emergency response teams;
    (c) Portable fire extinguishers, fire control equipment (including 
special extinguishing equipment, such as that using foam, inert gas, or 
dry chemicals), spill control equipment, and decontamination equipment; 
and
    (d) Water at adequate volume and pressure to supply water hose 
streams, or foam producing equipment, or automatic sprinklers, or water 
spray systems.


Sec.  262.253  Testing and maintenance of equipment.

    All communications or alarm systems, fire protection equipment, 
spill control equipment, and decontamination equipment, where required, 
must be tested and maintained as necessary to assure its proper 
operation in time of emergency.


Sec.  262.254  Access to communications or alarm system.

    (a) Whenever hazardous waste is being poured, mixed, spread, or 
otherwise handled, all personnel involved in the operation must have 
immediate access (e.g., direct or unimpeded access) to an internal 
alarm or emergency communication device, either directly or through 
visual or voice contact with another employee, unless such a device is 
not required under Sec.  265.252 of this chapter.
    (b) In the event there is just one employee on the premises while 
the site is operating, the employee must have immediate access (e.g., 
direct or unimpeded access) to a device, such as a telephone 
(immediately available at the scene of operation) or a hand-held two-
way radio, capable of summoning external emergency assistance, unless 
such a device is not required under Sec.  265.252 of this chapter.


Sec.  262.255  Required aisle space.

    The large quantity generator must maintain aisle space to allow the 
unobstructed movement of personnel, fire protection equipment, spill 
control equipment, and decontamination equipment to any area of site 
operation in an emergency, unless aisle space is not needed for any of 
these purposes.


Sec.  262.256  Arrangements with local authorities.

    (a) The large quantity generator must make arrangements with the 
Local Emergency Planning Committee for the types and quantities of 
hazardous waste handled at the site, as well as the potential need for 
the services of the local police department, other emergency response 
teams, emergency response contractors, equipment suppliers, and local 
hospitals. Should there be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, 
should it not respond, or should the Local Emergency Planning Committee 
determine that it is not the appropriate organization to make 
arrangements with, then the large quantity generator must make 
arrangements with the local fire department and other relevant 
emergency responders (e.g., police and hospitals).
    (1) A large quantity generator that must make arrangements with its 
local fire department must determine the potential need for the 
services of the local police department, other emergency response 
teams, emergency response contractors, equipment suppliers and local 
hospitals.
    (2) As part of this coordination, the large quantity generator 
shall make arrangements, as necessary, to familiarize the above 
organizations with the layout of the site, the properties of the 
hazardous waste handled at the site and associated hazards, places 
where personnel would normally be working, entrances to roads inside 
the site, and possible evacuation routes as well as the types of 
injuries or illnesses which could result from fires, explosions, or 
releases at the site.
    (3) Where more than one police or fire department might respond to 
an emergency, the large quantity generator shall enter into agreements 
designating primary emergency authority to a specific fire or police 
department, and agreements with any others to provide support to the 
primary emergency authority.
    (b) The large quantity generator shall maintain records documenting 
the arrangements with the Local Emergency Planning Committee, or if 
appropriate, with the local fire department as well as any other 
organization necessary to respond to an emergency. This documentation 
must include a certified letter or any other documentation that 
confirms such arrangements actively exist.


Sec.  262.260  Purpose and implementation of contingency plan.

    (a) A large quantity generator must have a contingency plan for the 
site. The contingency plan must be designed to minimize hazards to 
human health or the environment from fires, explosions, or any 
unplanned sudden or non-sudden release of hazardous waste or hazardous 
waste constituents to air, soil, or surface water.
    (b) The provisions of the plan must be carried out immediately 
whenever there is a fire, explosion, or release of hazardous waste or 
hazardous waste constituents which could threaten human health or the 
environment.


Sec.  262.261  Content of contingency plan.

    (a) The contingency plan must describe the actions site personnel 
must take to comply with Sec. Sec.  262.260 and 262.265 in response to 
fires, explosions, or any unplanned sudden or non-sudden release of 
hazardous waste or hazardous waste constituents to air, soil, or 
surface water at the site.
    (b) If the generator has already prepared a Spill Prevention, 
Control, and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan in accordance with part 112 of 
this chapter, or some other emergency or contingency plan, it need only 
amend that plan to incorporate hazardous waste management provisions 
that are sufficient to comply with the standards of this part. The 
generator may develop one contingency plan that meets all regulatory 
standards. EPA recommends that the plan be based on the National 
Response Team's Integrated Contingency Plan Guidance (``One Plan'').

[[Page 58008]]

    (c) The plan must describe arrangements agreed to with the Local 
Emergency Planning Committee. Should there be no Local Emergency 
Planning Committee, should it not respond, or should the Local 
Emergency Planning Committee determine that it is not the appropriate 
organization to make arrangements with, then the plan must describe 
arrangements agreed to by local fire departments and other relevant 
emergency responders (e.g., police and hospitals) to coordinate 
emergency services, pursuant to Sec.  262.256.
    (d) The plan must list names and emergency telephone numbers of all 
persons qualified to act as emergency coordinator (see Sec.  262.264), 
and this list must be kept up to date. Where more than one person is 
listed, one must be named as primary emergency coordinator and others 
must be listed in the order in which they will assume responsibility as 
alternates. In situations where the generator site has an emergency 
coordinator continuously on duty because it operates 24 hours per day, 
every day of the year, the plan may list the staffed position (e.g., 
operations manager, shift coordinator, shift operations supervisor) as 
well as an emergency telephone number that can be guaranteed to be 
answered at all times.
    (e) The plan must include a list of all emergency equipment at the 
site (such as fire extinguishing systems, spill control equipment, 
communications and alarm systems (internal and external), and 
decontamination equipment), where this equipment is required. This list 
must be kept up to date. In addition, the plan must include the 
location and a physical description of each item on the list, and a 
brief outline of its capabilities.
    (f) The plan must include an evacuation plan for generator 
personnel where there is a possibility that evacuation could be 
necessary. This plan must describe signal(s) to be used to begin 
evacuation, evacuation routes, and alternate evacuation routes (in 
cases where the primary routes could be blocked by releases of 
hazardous waste or fires).


Sec.  262.262  Copies of contingency plan.

    A copy of the contingency plan and all revisions to the plan must 
be maintained at the large quantity generator's site and--
    (a) The large quantity generator must submit a copy of the 
contingency plan to the Local Emergency Planning Committee. Should 
there be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, should it not respond, 
or should the Local Emergency Planning Committee determine that it is 
not the appropriate organization to make arrangements with, the large 
quantity generator must submit the copy to the local emergency 
responders.
    (b) A generator that first becomes subject to these provisions 
after [date 6 months after the date of publication of the final rule in 
the Federal Register] must submit an executive summary of the 
contingency plan to the Local Emergency Planning Committee. Should 
there be no Local Emergency Planning Committee, should it not respond, 
or should the Local Emergency Planning Committee determine that it is 
not the appropriate organization to make arrangements with, the 
generator must submit the copy to the local emergency responders. The 
executive summary must include the following elements:
    (1) The types/names of hazardous wastes in layman's terms and the 
associated hazard associated with each waste present at any one time 
(e.g., toxic paint wastes, spent ignitable solvent, corrosive acid);
    (2) The estimated maximum amount of each hazardous waste that may 
be present at any one time;
    (3) The identification of any hazardous wastes where exposure would 
require unique or special treatment by medical or hospital staff;
    (4) A map of the site showing where hazardous wastes are generated 
and accumulated and routes for accessing these wastes;
    (5) A street map of the site in relation to surrounding businesses, 
schools and residential areas to understand how best to get to the 
facility and also evacuate citizens and workers;
    (6) The locations of water supply (e.g., fire hydrant and its flow 
rate);
    (7) The identification of on-site notification systems (e.g., a 
fire alarm that rings off site, smoke alarms); and
    (8) The name of the emergency coordinator and 7/24-hour emergency 
telephone number.


Sec.  262.263  Amendment of contingency plan.

    The contingency plan must be reviewed, and immediately amended, if 
necessary, whenever:
    (a) Applicable regulations are revised;
    (b) The plan fails in an emergency;
    (c) The generator site changes--in its design, construction, 
operation, maintenance, or other circumstances--in a way that 
materially increases the potential for fires, explosions, or releases 
of hazardous waste or hazardous waste constituents, or changes the 
response necessary in an emergency;
    (d) The list of emergency coordinators changes; or
    (e) The list of emergency equipment changes.


Sec.  262.264  Emergency coordinator.

    At all times, there must be at least one employee either on the 
generator's premises or on call (i.e., available to respond to an 
emergency by reaching the site within a short period of time) with the 
responsibility for coordinating all emergency response measures and 
implementing the necessary emergency procedures outlined in Sec.  
262.265. This emergency coordinator must be thoroughly familiar with 
all aspects of the generator's contingency plan, all operations and 
activities at the site, the location and characteristics of waste 
handled, the location of all records within the site, and the site's 
layout. In addition, this person must have the authority to commit the 
resources needed to carry out the contingency plan.


Sec.  262.265  Emergency procedures.

    (a) Whenever there is an imminent or actual emergency situation, 
the emergency coordinator (or his designee when the emergency 
coordinator is on call) must immediately:
    (1) Activate internal site alarms or communication systems, where 
applicable, to notify all site personnel; and
    (2) Notify appropriate state or local agencies with designated 
response roles if their help is needed.
    (b) Whenever there is a release, fire, or explosion, the emergency 
coordinator must immediately identify the character, exact source, 
amount, and areal extent of any released materials. The emergency 
coordinator may do this by observation or review of the site records or 
manifests and, if necessary, by chemical analysis.
    (c) Concurrently, the emergency coordinator must assess possible 
hazards to human health or the environment that may result from the 
release, fire, or explosion. This assessment must consider both direct 
and indirect effects of the release, fire, or explosion (e.g., the 
effects of any toxic, irritating, or asphyxiating gases that are 
generated, or the effects of any hazardous surface water run-offs from 
water or chemical agents used to control fire and heat-induced 
explosions).
    (d) If the emergency coordinator determines that the site has had a 
release, fire, or explosion which could threaten human health, or the 
environment, outside the facility, the emergency coordinator must 
report the findings as follows:
    (1) If the assessment indicates that evacuation of local areas may 
be

[[Page 58009]]

advisable, the emergency coordinator must immediately notify 
appropriate local authorities. The emergency coordinator must be 
available to help appropriate officials decide whether local areas 
should be evacuated; and
    (2) The emergency coordinator must immediately notify either the 
government official designated as the on-scene coordinator for that 
geographical area, or the National Response Center (using their 24-hour 
toll free number 800/424-8802). The report must include:
    (i) Name and telephone number of reporter;
    (ii) Name and address of the generator;
    (iii) Time and type of incident (e.g., release, fire);
    (iv) Name and quantity of material(s) involved, to the extent 
known;
    (v) The extent of injuries, if any; and
    (vi) The possible hazards to human health, or the environment, 
outside the site.
    (e) During an emergency, the emergency coordinator must take all 
reasonable measures necessary to ensure that fires, explosions, and 
releases do not occur, recur, or spread to other hazardous waste at the 
generator's site. These measures must include, where applicable, 
stopping processes and operations, collecting and containing released 
waste, and removing or isolating containers.
    (f) If the generator's site stops operations in response to a fire, 
explosion or release, the emergency coordinator must monitor for leaks, 
pressure buildup, gas generation, or ruptures in valves, pipes, or 
other equipment, wherever this is appropriate.
    (g) Immediately after an emergency, the emergency coordinator must 
provide for treating, storing, or disposing of recovered waste, 
contaminated soil or surface water, or any other material that results 
from a release, fire, or explosion at the facility. Unless the 
generator can demonstrate, in accordance with Sec.  261.3(c) or (d) of 
this chapter, that the recovered material is not a hazardous waste, 
then it is a newly generated hazardous waste that must be managed in 
accordance with all the applicable independent requirements and 
conditions for exemption in parts 262, 263, and 265 of this chapter.
    (h) The emergency coordinator must ensure that, in the affected 
area(s) of the site:
    (1) No waste that may be incompatible with the released material is 
treated, stored, or disposed of until cleanup procedures are completed; 
and
    (2) All emergency equipment listed in the contingency plan is 
cleaned and fit for its intended use before operations are resumed.
    (i) The generator must note in the operating record the time, date, 
and details of any incident that requires implementing the contingency 
plan. Within 15 days after the incident, the generator must submit a 
written report on the incident to the Regional Administrator. The 
report must include:
    (1) Name, address, and telephone number of the generator;
    (2) Date, time, and type of incident (e.g., fire, explosion);
    (3) Name and quantity of material(s) involved;
    (4) The extent of injuries, if any;
    (5) An assessment of actual or potential hazards to human health or 
the environment, where this is applicable; and
    (6) Estimated quantity and disposition of recovered material that 
resulted from the incident.

PART 263--STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO TRANSPORTERS OF HAZARDOUS WASTE

0
46. The authority citation for part 263 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6906, 6912, 6922-6925, 6937, and 6938.

0
47. Section 263.12 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  263.12  Transfer facility requirements.

    (a) A transporter who stores manifested shipments of hazardous 
waste in containers meeting the independent requirements of Sec.  
262.30 of this chapter at a transfer facility for a period of ten days 
or less is not subject to regulation under parts 264, 265, 267, 268, 
and 270 of this chapter with respect to the storage of those wastes.
    (b) The transporter must hold hazardous wastes that are stored at 
transfer facilities in containers marked with the following 
information:
    (1) The words ``Hazardous Waste;''
    (2) The applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) (EPA hazardous 
waste codes) in subparts C and D of part 261 of this chapter;
    (3) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D); and
    (4) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 1920.1200; a chemical hazard 
label consistent with the National Fire Protection Association code 
704; a hazard pictogram consistent with the United Nations' Globally 
Harmonized System; or any other marking and labeling commonly used 
nationwide in commerce that identifies the nature of the hazards 
associated with the contents of the waste accumulation unit).

PART 264--STANDARDS FOR OWNERS AND OPERATORS OF HAZARDOUS WASTE 
TREATMENT, STORAGE, AND DISPOSAL FACILITIES

0
48. The authority citation for part 264 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6912(a), 6924, and 6925.

0
49. Section 264.1 is amended by revising paragraphs (g)(1) and (3) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  264.1  Purpose, scope and applicability.

* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (1) The owner or operator of a facility permitted, licensed, or 
registered by a state to manage municipal or industrial solid waste, if 
the only hazardous waste the facility treats, stores, or disposes of is 
excluded from regulation under this part by Sec.  262.14 of this 
chapter;
* * * * *
    (3) A generator accumulating waste on site in compliance with Sec.  
262.14, 262.15, 262.16, or 262.17 of this chapter.
* * * * *
0
50. Section 264.15 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(4) and removing 
the comment to paragraph (b)(4) and paragraph (b)(5).
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  264.15  General inspection requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) The frequency of inspection may vary for the items on the 
schedule. However, the frequency should be based on the rate of 
deterioration of the equipment and the probability of an environmental 
or human health incident if the deterioration, malfunction, or operator 
error goes undetected between inspections. Areas

[[Page 58010]]

subject to spills, such as loading and unloading areas, must be 
inspected daily when in use. At a minimum, the inspection schedule must 
include the items and frequencies called for in Sec. Sec.  264.174, 
264.193, 264.195, 264.226, 264.254, 264.278, 264.303, 264.347, 264.602, 
264.1033, 264.1052, 264.1053, 264.1058, and 264.1083 through 264.1089, 
where applicable. Part 270 of this chapter requires the inspection 
schedule to be submitted with part B of the permit application. EPA 
will evaluate the schedule along with the rest of the application to 
ensure that it adequately protects human health and the environment. As 
part of this review, EPA may modify or amend the schedule as may be 
necessary.
* * * * *
0
51. Section 264.71 is amended by revising paragraph (c) and removing 
the comment following paragraph (c).
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  264.71  Use of manifest system.

* * * * *
    (c) Whenever a shipment of hazardous waste is initiated from a 
facility, the owner or operator of that facility must comply with the 
requirements of part 262 of this chapter. The provisions of Sec. Sec.  
262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 of this chapter are applicable to the on-
site accumulation of hazardous wastes by generators. Therefore, the 
provisions of Sec. Sec.  262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 of this chapter 
only apply to owners or operators who are shipping hazardous waste 
which they generated at that facility.
* * * * *
0
52. Section 264.75 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  264.75  Biennial report.

    The owner or operator must complete and submit EPA form 8700-13 to 
the Regional Administrator by March 1 of each even numbered year for 
facility activities during the previous calendar year.
0
53. Section 264.170 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  264.170  Applicability.

    The regulations in this subpart apply to owners and operators of 
all hazardous waste facilities that store hazardous waste in 
containers, except as Sec.  264.1 provides otherwise.
0
54. Section 264.174 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  264.174  Inspections.

    At least weekly, the owner or operator must inspect areas where 
containers are stored. The owner or operator must look for leaking 
containers and for deterioration of containers and the containment 
system cause by corrosion or other factors. See Sec. Sec.  264.15(c) 
and 264.171 for remedial action required if deterioration or leaks are 
detected.
0
55. Section 264.191 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  264.191  Assessment of existing tank system's integrity.

    (a) For each existing tank system that does not have secondary 
containment meeting the requirements of Sec.  264.193, the owner or 
operator must determine that the tank system is not leaking or is fit 
for use. Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the owner 
or operator must obtain and keep on file at the facility a written 
assessment reviewed and certified by a qualified Professional Engineer, 
in accordance with Sec.  270.11(d) of this chapter, that attests to the 
tank system's integrity by January 12, 1988.
* * * * *


Sec.  264.195  [Amended]

0
56. Section 264.195 is amended by removing and reserving paragraph (e).
0
57. Section 264.1030 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  264.1030  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) A unit (including a hazardous waste recycling unit) that is not 
exempt from permitting under the provisions of 40 CFR 262.17 (i.e., a 
hazardous waste recycling unit that is not a 90-day tank or container) 
and that is located at a hazardous waste management facility otherwise 
subject to the permitting requirements of 40 CFR part 270; or
* * * * *
0
58. Section 264.1050 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(3) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  264.1050  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) A unit that is exempt from permitting under the provisions of 
40 CFR 262.17 (i.e., a ``90-day'' tank or container) and is not a 
recycling unit under the provisions of 40 CFR 261.6.
* * * * *
0
59. Section 264.1101 is amended by revising paragraph (c)(4) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  264.1101  Design and operating standards.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (4) Inspect and record in the facility operating record, at least 
once every seven days, data gathered from monitoring and leak detection 
equipment as well as the containment building and the area immediately 
surrounding the containment building to detect signs of releases of 
hazardous waste.
* * * * *

PART 265--INTERIM STATUS STANDARDS FOR OWNERS AND OPERATORS OF 
HAZARDOUS WASTE TREATMENT, STORAGE, AND DISPOSAL FACILITIES

0
60. The authority citation for part 265 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6906, 6912, 6922, 6923, 6924, 6925, 
6935, 6936, and 6937.

0
61. Section 265.1 is amended by revising paragraphs (c)(5) and (7) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  265.1  Purpose, scope, and applicability.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (5) The owner or operator of a facility permitted, licensed, or 
registered by a State to manage municipal or industrial solid waste, if 
the only hazardous waste the facility treats, stores, or disposes of is 
excluded from regulation under this part by Sec.  262.14 of this 
chapter;
* * * * *
    (7) A generator accumulating waste on site in compliance with 
Sec. Sec.  262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 of this chapter, except to the 
extent the provisions are included in Sec.  262.15, 262.16, or 262.17 
of this chapter;
* * * * *
0
62. Section 265.15 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(4) and removing 
paragraph (b)(5).
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  265.15  General inspection requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) The frequency of inspection may vary for the items on the 
schedule. However, the frequency should be based on the rate of 
deterioration of the equipment and the probability of an environmental 
or human health incident if the deterioration, malfunction, or operator 
error goes undetected between inspections. Areas subject to spills, 
such as loading and unloading areas, must be inspected daily when in 
use. At a minimum, the inspection schedule must include the items and 
frequencies called for in Sec. Sec.  265.174, 265.193, 265.195, 
265.226, 265.260, 265.278, 265.304, 265.347, 265.377, 265.403, 
265.1033, 265.1052,

[[Page 58011]]

265.1053, 265.1058, and 265.1084 through 265.1090, where applicable.
* * * * *
0
63. Section 265.71 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  265.71  Use of manifest system.

* * * * *
    (c) Whenever a shipment of hazardous waste is initiated from a 
facility, the owner or operator of that facility must comply with the 
requirements of part 262 of this chapter. The provisions of Sec. Sec.  
262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 of this chapter are applicable to the on-
site accumulation of hazardous wastes by generators. Therefore, the 
provisions of Sec. Sec.  262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 only apply to 
owners or operators who are shipping hazardous waste which they 
generated at that facility.
* * * * *
0
64. Section 265.75 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  265.75  Biennial report.

    The owner or operator must complete and submit EPA form 8700-13 to 
the Regional Administrator by March 1 of each even numbered year for 
facility activities during the previous calendar year.
0
65. Section 265.111 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  265.111  Closure performance standard.

* * * * *
    (c) Complies with the closure requirements of this subpart, 
including, but not limited to, the requirements of Sec. Sec.  265.197, 
265.228, 265.258, 265.280, 265.310, 265.351, 265.381, 265.404, 265.445, 
and 265.1102.
0
66. Section 265.114 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  265.114  Disposal or decontamination of equipment, structures and 
soils.

    During the partial and final closure periods, all contaminated 
equipment, structures and soil must be properly disposed of, or 
decontaminated unless specified otherwise in Sec.  265.197, 265.228, 
265.445, 265.258, 265.280, 265.310, or 265.1102. By removing all 
hazardous wastes or hazardous constituents during partial and final 
closure, the owner or operator may become a generator of hazardous 
waste and must handle that hazardous waste in accordance with all 
applicable requirements of part 262 of this chapter.
0
67. Section 265.174 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  265.174  Inspections.

    At least weekly, the owner or operator must inspect areas where 
containers are stored. The owner or operator must look for leaking 
containers and for deterioration of containers caused by corrosion or 
other factors. See Sec.  265.171 for remedial action required if 
deterioration or leaks are detected.


Sec.  265.195  [Amended]

0
68. Section 265.195 is amended by removing and reserving paragraph (d).


Sec.  265.201  [Removed and reserved]

0
69. Remove and reserve Sec.  265.201.
0
70. Section 265.1030 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(2) and (3) 
and removing the Note to (b)(3).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  265.1030  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) A unit (including a hazardous waste recycling unit) that is not 
exempt from permitting under the provisions of 40 CFR 262.17 (i.e., a 
hazardous waste recycling unit that is not a 90-day tank or container) 
and that is located at a hazardous waste management facility otherwise 
subject to the permitting requirements of 40 CFR part 270, or
    (3) A unit that is exempt from permitting under the provisions of 
40 CFR 262.17 (i.e., a ``90-day'' tank or container) and is not a 
recycling unit under the requirements of 40 CFR 261.6.
* * * * *
0
71. Section 265.1101 is amended by revising paragraph (c)(4) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  265.1101  Design and operating standards.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (4) Inspect and record in the facility's operating record at least 
once every seven days data gathered from monitoring and leak detection 
equipment as well as the containment building and the area immediately 
surrounding the containment building to detect signs of releases of 
hazardous waste.
* * * * *

PART 268--LAND DISPOSAL RESTRICTIONS

0
72. The authority citation for part 268 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6912(a), 6921, and 6924.
0
73. Section 268.1 is amended by revising paragraph (e)(1) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  268.1  Purpose, scope, and applicability.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) Waste generated by very small quantity generators, as defined 
in Sec.  260.10 of this chapter;
* * * * *
0
74. Section 268.7 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(5) introductory 
paragraph to read as follows:


Sec.  268.7  Testing, tracking, and recordkeeping requirements for 
generators, treaters, and disposal facilities.

    (a) * * *
    (5) If a generator is managing and treating prohibited waste or 
contaminated soil in tanks, containers, or containment buildings 
regulated under 40 CFR 262.15, 262.16, and 262.17 to meet applicable 
LDR treatment standards found at Sec.  268.40, the generator must 
develop and follow a written waste analysis plan which describes the 
procedures they will carry out to comply with the treatment standards. 
(Generators treating hazardous debris under the alternative treatment 
standards of Table 1 to Sec.  268.45, however, are not subject to these 
waste analysis requirements.) The plan must be kept on site in the 
generator's records, and the following requirements must be met:
* * * * *
0
75. Section 268.50 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(2)(i) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  268.50  Prohibitions on storage of restricted waste.

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) Each container is clearly marked with:
    (A) The words ``Hazardous Waste;''
    (B) The applicable EPA hazardous waste number(s) (EPA hazardous 
waste codes) in subparts C and D of part 261 of this chapter;
    (C) Other words that identify the contents of the containers 
(examples may include, but are not limited to the name of the 
chemical(s), such as ``acetone'' or ``methylene dichloride''; or the 
type or class of chemical, such as ``organic solvents'' or 
``halogenated organic solvents'' or, as applicable, the proper shipping 
name and technical name markings used to comply with Department of 
Transportation requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart D); and
    (D) An indication of the hazards of the contents (examples include, 
but are not limited to, the applicable hazardous waste 
characteristic(s) (i.e., ignitable, corrosive, reactive, toxic); a 
hazard class label consistent with the Department of Transportation 
requirements at 49 CFR part 172 subpart E (labeling); a label 
consistent with the Occupational Safety

[[Page 58012]]

and Health Administration Hazard Communication Standard at 29 CFR 
1920.1200; a chemical hazard label consistent with the National Fire 
Protection Association code 704; a hazard pictogram consistent with the 
United Nations' Globally Harmonized System; or any other marking and 
labeling commonly used nationwide in commerce that identifies the 
nature of the hazards associated with the contents of the waste 
accumulation unit); and
    (E) The date each period of accumulation begins.
* * * * *

PART 270--EPA ADMINISTERED PERMIT PROGRAMS: THE HAZARDOUS WASTE 
PERMIT PROGRAM

0
76. The authority citation for part 270 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6905, 6912, 6924, 6925, 6927, 6939, and 
6974.

0
77. Section 270.1 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(3), (c)(2) 
introductory text, (c)(2)(i), and (c)(2)(iii) to read as follows:


Sec.  270.1  Purpose and scope of these regulations.

    (a) * * *
    (3) Technical regulations. The RCRA permit program has separate 
additional regulations that contain technical requirements. These 
separate regulations are used by permit issuing authorities to 
determine what requirements must be placed in permits if they are 
issued. These separate regulations are located in 40 CFR parts 264, 
266, 267, and 268.
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) Specific exclusions and exemptions. The following persons are 
among those who are not required to obtain a RCRA permit:
    (i) Generators who accumulate hazardous waste on site in compliance 
with all of the conditions for exemption provided in 40 CFR 262.14, 
262.15, 262.16, and 262.17.
* * * * *
    (iii) Persons who own or operate facilities solely for the 
treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste excluded from 
regulations under this part by 40 CFR 261.4.
* * * * *


Sec.  270.42  [Amended]

0
78. Section 270.42 is amended by removing and reserving paragraph (l) 
and the entries under O.1. in the table of appendix I to Sec.  270.42.

PART 273--STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT

0
79. The authority citation for part 273 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6922, 6923, 6924, 6925, 6930, and 6937.

0
80. Section 273.8 is amended by revising the section heading and 
paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  273.8  Applicability--household and very small quantity generator 
waste.

    (a) * * *
    (2) Very small quantity generator wastes that are exempt under 
Sec.  262.14 of this chapter and are also of the same type as the 
universal wastes defined at Sec.  273.9.
* * * * *
0
81. Section 273.81 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  273.81  Factors for petitions to include other wastes under 40 
CFR part 273.

* * * * *
    (b) The waste or category of waste is not exclusive to a specific 
industry or group of industries, is commonly generated by a wide 
variety of types of establishments (including, for example, households, 
retail and commercial businesses, office complexes, very small quantity 
generators, small businesses, government organizations, as well as 
large industrial facilities);
* * * * *

PART 279--STANDARDS FOR MANAGEMENT OF USED OIL

0
82. The authority citation for part 279 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  Sections 1006, 2002(a), 3001 through 3007, 3010, 
3014, and 7004 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended (42 
U.S.C. 6905, 6912(a), 6921 through 6927, 6930, 6934, and 6974) ; and 
sections 101(37) and 144(c) of CERCLA (42 U.S.C. 9601(37) and 
9614(c)).

0
83. Section 279.10 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(3) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  279.10  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) Very small quantity generator hazardous waste. Mixtures of used 
oil and very small quantity generator hazardous waste regulated under 
Sec.  262.14 of this chapter are subject to regulation as used oil 
under this part.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2015-23166 Filed 9-24-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P