Universal Waste Regulations: These regulations have streamlined hazardous waste management standards for the federal universal wastes (batteries, pesticides, thermostats, lamps, computers, CRTs, and other electronics). The regulations govern the collection and management of these widely generated wastes. Your company can be deemed a handler of universal waste if you generate (need to dispose of) waste such as computer monitors or fluorescent bulbs. There are two types of handlers, Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste (SQHUW) that accumulate less than 5,000 kg (11,000 lbs) of universal waste at any one time and Large Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste (LQHUW) that accumulate 5,000 kg (11,000 lbs) or more of universal waste at any one time. You are allowed to store this gear for up to 1 year, unless for proper recovery, treatment, or disposal. You may be required to provide basic training geared toward employee responsibilities to your staff.

In effect that storage room stuffed full of old electronic gear and IT equipment that has been sitting there for over 12 months will be in violation of this regulation and can carry with it some hefty fines. If you think the EPA or local authorities will not find out, you should know most violations have been reported by disgruntled or former employees.

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