What is Dangerous Waste?

What is dangerous waste?

Washington state uses the term "dangerous waste" rather than the federal law's term of "hazardous waste." This is because Washington state's Dangerous Waste Regulations are more protective than federal laws. The definition of "dangerous waste" is more expansive than "hazardous waste."

Handling and disposing of dangerous waste

What are the Dangerous Waste Regulations?

The regulations are based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), but are more protective. You may find the regulations in the following formats:

Dispose, recycle, or treat dangerous waste

Businesses that generate dangerous waste must manage and dispose of this waste properly. Dangerous waste generators are responsible for this waste forever — even after it is disposed of.

Most businesses choose to hire a hazardous waste service provider. Some businesses can also reduce overall disposal costs and fees by:

  • Recycling their own waste.
  • Treating their own waste on-site (also known as treatment by generator).

Small quantity generators

Small quantity generators (SQGs) can choose to hire a waste service provider OR transport their dangerous waste to an acceptable disposal facility, such as a:

Hire a waste service provider

Waste service providers can help with most, if not all, aspects of transporting and disposing of dangerous waste. There are many providers to choose from, but it is your responsibility to research a company thoroughly. You remain liable and responsible for any waste you generate, even if it is handled by another company.

Recycle dangerous waste

You may be able to recycle waste at your facility, which could benefit you by:

  • Reducing the amount of waste you generate.
  • Lowering your disposal, handling, or liability costs.
  • Reducing your regulatory requirements.
  • Allowing you to qualify for recycling credits on your dangerous waste annual report.

Some wastes are especially cost-effective to recycle, such as:

Treatment by generator

Businesses that treat their dangerous waste on-site do so through a variety of different methods. This is called “treatment by generator.” The benefits of treating wastes on-site are that it can reduce overall costs and fees by making the dangerous waste you generate:

  • Less hazardous.
  • Easier or safer to transport.