waste disposal | Spill Containment Blog

Waste Analysis Plan (WAP): What You Need To Know

February 14, 2024 by Travis Zdrazil

WAP Information and Tips to Help Your Business Remain EPA-Compliant

A Waste Analysis Plan (WAP) is a crucial tool for businesses dealing with hazardous waste. It serves as a step-by-step guide, outlining the procedures for treating, storing, and disposing of various hazardous waste materials: Whether it’s corrosives, flammables, explosives, gasses, poisons, or any other hazardous material. Companies need to have a WAP in place to guide crew members on how to safely handle those materials. In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires certain businesses and industries to use them.

Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF)

For Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs), the EPA mandates the implementation of a WAP. Meaning, if your company deals with hazardous waste cleanup you must have a WAP in place to remain EPA-compliant. You can read more about the specific requirements for TSDFs in the EPA’s Guidance Manual. It’s important for companies to follow the EPA’s guidelines to prevent fines, lawsuits, forced closure and employee injury.

Other Instances When a WAP Is Required

A WAP is not exclusive to TSDFs; there are several other instances when a WAP is required. The following list provides a brief overview of when WAPs should be used:

Generate – If your company generates hazardous waste, you must have a WAP in place.
Treat – Does you company treat hazardous waste? If so, a WAP is required to maintain a safe, EPA-compliant environment.
Dispose – Disposing of hazardous waste and material also requires a WAP.
Store – Lastly, storing hazardous waste calls for a WAP to guide workers on the proper procedure.

Tips for Effectively Implementing and Using a WAP

A WAP’s effectiveness relies on proper training and awareness among employees. After establishing a WAP for your company, conduct a comprehensive training program to ensure that workers understand and follow its protocols. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for companies to set up a WAP only to have it disregarded in their everyday operations. Prevent this from happening by empowering your employees with the knowledge they need to follow steps the WAP outlines.

The first step in setting up a WAP is to identify the hazardous material and waste in your workplace. If you haven’t done so already, perform a thorough analysis of your work environment to identify the type, amount, and location of hazardous material. Using this information, you can then create a set of detailed instructions guiding workers on the correct method for handling such hazardous material.

For more resources and information, visit the EPA website. It provides answers to frequently asked questions about TSDFs as well as an A-Z index of Hazardous Waste.

Choose AbsorbentsOnline for Expert Guidance and Quality Products

When it comes to ensuring facility safety and effective spill cleanup—including hazardous materials— AbsorbentsOnline is your trusted source. We provide not only the expertise you need but also a range of high-quality products to enhance your facility’s safety measures. Rely on us for comprehensive solutions, and let us be your partner in maintaining EPA compliance and promoting a secure work environment. Contact us today for a seamless experience in acquiring top-notch products and expert assistance.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of September 26, 2013.

Managing Used Rags and Chemical Absorbent Products

September 21, 2023 by Travis Zdrazil

Workplace tips for safer handling of soiled shop rags and absorbents

Using a chemical absorbent pad for spill cleanup

Discover how to safely deal with soiled absorbents in your workplace

From rags and fabric wipes to granular, boom, pillow, or sock absorbents, there are dozens of different products designed for handling workplace clean-up tasks. But what happens to these products after they are used to absorb a chemical spill?

While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of your job, proper disposal and management of these items are critical for maintaining a safe and environmentally responsible workspace.

In this post, we’ll provide you with tips, best practices, and guidance on how to handle these materials in compliance with federal regulations.

Why Proper Management Matters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk about why managing used oily rags and chemical absorbents is so important. Whether you work in a manufacturing facility, a laboratory, or any other setting where chemicals are used, you likely encounter these materials regularly. And their improper management can lead to serious consequences.

Safety: Used rags and chemical absorbents can be contaminated with hazardous substances. Failing to manage them properly can lead to accidents, fires, or chemical exposures that can harm employees and the environment.
Environmental Responsibility: Disposing of these materials incorrectly can have a negative impact on the environment. Many chemicals can leach into soil and water, causing pollution that harms ecosystems and human health.
Compliance with Regulations: Federal regulations, such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in the United States, govern the disposal of hazardous waste, including used rags and chemical absorbents. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines and legal consequences.

Sending chemical-soaked rags and wipes to a “normal” laundry facility could result in the chemical flushing into the municipal sewer system. Likewise, simply tossing them in the trash could result in a fire due to the possibility of spontaneous combustion. As the City of Newton Massachusetts website explains:

“Oily rags that get folded or balled up and tossed on the floor have the danger of going through a process that starts with oxidation. As the oil is drying on the rag, it produces heat, and air gets trapped in the folds or balled up portions. Heat and oxygen are combined in addition to the rag, which is usually made of combustible cloth that can become a source of fuel. Heat, oxygen and fuel are all that is needed to create a fire, which is why oily rags that are not disposed of properly can create a fire that people are not prepared for.”

Reusable absorbent products, such as rags and certain types of wipes, can be effectively laundered. However, business owners should contact the laundry facility beforehand to determine whether or not they will accept them. Most industrial laundry facilities are fully trained to properly clean chemical-soaked rags and reusable wipes, allowing businesses to continue using them.

If the rag or wipe is contaminated with a “hazardous chemical other than oil,” the business owner should refer to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for more information on how to properly dispose of it.

Now that we better understand the importance of proper management, let’s delve into some practical tips and best practices.

Best Practices for Managing Used Rags and Chemical Absorbent Products

1. Segregation and Labeling

One of the first steps in managing used rags and chemical absorbents is proper segregation and labeling. The EPA recommends businesses keep two separate stacks of used rags and absorbent products: one for non-hazardous chemicals, and another one for hazardous chemicals. Use clearly labeled containers or bins for each type of waste. This helps prevent cross-contamination and ensures that waste is properly categorized.

Example: In a manufacturing facility, designate color-coded bins for used rags and chemical absorbents. Use red or yellow bins for hazardous waste and green bins for non-hazardous waste. Ensure all employees are aware of the color-coding system.

2. Storage and Containment

Used rags and chemical absorbents should be stored in suitable containers that prevent leaks and spills. These containers should be kept in designated areas away from high-traffic zones.

Example: In an automotive repair shop, use sealable drums for storing used oil-soaked rags. Ensure these drums are stored in a secure, well-ventilated area to minimize fire hazards.

3. Training and Awareness

Proper training is key to ensuring that all employees understand the importance of managing these materials safely. Provide training on the identification of hazardous waste, proper handling techniques, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves or goggles.

Example: Conduct regular training sessions for laboratory staff on identifying and handling hazardous chemicals. Make sure they know the location of safety showers and eyewash stations in case of chemical exposure.

4. Regular Inspections

Frequent inspections are crucial to identify any issues with the storage and containment of used rags and chemical absorbents. Inspect containers for leaks, damage, or signs of deterioration.

Example: In a chemical manufacturing plant, designate a staff member to conduct weekly inspections of hazardous waste storage areas and report any problems promptly.

5. Hazardous Waste Pickup and Disposal

Once you have accumulated a sufficient quantity of hazardous waste, follow established procedures for disposal. In the United States, RCRA regulations dictate how hazardous waste must be managed, including requirements for labeling, manifesting, and using authorized disposal facilities.

Example: A pharmaceutical research laboratory contracts with a licensed hazardous waste disposal company to pick up and transport chemical waste to a licensed treatment and disposal facility.

6. Keep Records

Maintaining accurate records is essential for demonstrating compliance with regulations. Keep records of waste generation, transportation, and disposal. This documentation is crucial if you ever face an audit or inspection.

Example: Document the type and quantity of hazardous waste generated each month, along with disposal receipts and manifests, in a secure electronic or physical file.

7. Emergency Response Planning

In the event of a spill or accident involving hazardous waste, it’s essential to have a well-defined emergency response plan in place. Ensure that all employees are trained in these procedures.

Example: A chemical manufacturing facility conducts regular drills to practice spill response and evacuation procedures. Employees are familiar with the location of spill response kits and know how to use them.

Conclusion

Managing used rags and chemical absorbent products in the workplace may not be the most exciting task, but it’s undeniably crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. By following federal regulations, adopting best practices, and implementing workplace-specific examples, you contribute to a safer environment for both your colleagues and the surrounding community.

We understand that navigating the intricacies of hazardous waste management can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re here to help! At AbsorbentsOnline, we offer comprehensive solutions to make your workplace cleaner, safer, and more efficient.

Our team of experts specializes in providing advice, products, and services tailored to your specific needs. Whether you require high-quality absorbent materials, spill kits, or guidance on regulatory compliance, we’ve got you covered. Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of July 14, 2014.

SmartAsh Incinerators Help Burn Costs

April 23, 2021 by Travis Zdrazil

How a Portable Incinerator Can Cut Your Business Spending on Waste Material Disposal

The SmartAsh converts a standard 55-gallon drum into a cyclonic barrel burner

Chances are you’re always looking for new ways to save money on operating costs and to increase your bottom line. Like finding out where to get the most affordable materials. Or, identifying areas where your facility has excess or wastage.

But, there still might be one more place where you’re losing money. And that’s paying an outside company to dispose of your used absorbent materials and other waste.

What if you could do that internally? With a system that meets EPA requirements for burning non-hazardous refuse?

Enter this industry-changing product: the SmartAsh portable incinerator. Now, you can burn your waste management costs — literally!

What is an incinerator?

An incinerator uses intense heat to reduce burnable waste into ash

An incinerator is a furnace unit that burns waste materials at high temperatures, reducing it to ash. The SmartAsh cyclonic barrel burner unit does exactly that. By converting any steel 55-gallon drum into a highly efficient and portable incinerator.

This means you can deploy this mobile waste incinerator just about anywhere. Including temporary work locations such as construction sites. It’s also ideal for use in remote communities, like mining or expedition bases.

How do you use the SmartAsh incinerator?

The SmartAsh creates a whirlwind of fire inside a steel drum to efficiently burn waste

Not only will SmartAsh save you money, it’s also easy to use with a standard 55-gallon drum. You power the system using either a 120 or 240 volts electricity supply.

Simply load an open-head steel drum three-fourths of the way full with non-hazardous waste. Then, set it alight, close the incinerator lid, and turn up the blower.

The unit creates a whirlwind of fire and intense heat inside the drum. And typically burns at a temperature range between 1,000 and 1,400 Fahrenheit. As a result of this heat and fire combustion process, the waste within the drum reduces to 3% ash. All without smoke or odor!

On average, the unit incinerates 50 lbs of waste per hour. Although, burn time depends on the absorbent type(s) as well as the volume you load into the drum.

What can I burn in an incinerator?

You can use a portable incinerator to dispose of any non-hazardous material. Which covers a wide variety of common industrial and medical waste products. Everything from oily rags and fiberglass filters to wipes, gloves, and masks. Bonus: It even eliminates the second-person-contamination liability problem.

A portable incinerator can burn a wide range of waste, such as oily rags and absorbents

An incinerator is also ideal for eliminating your soiled absorbents. It is suitable for sorbents made of cellulose, peat moss, polypropylene, and corn cob. As well as for burning organic materials like wood shipping pallets and paper waste.

Using the OilAway attachment, it’s even possible to incinerate some type 1 and 2 hydrocarbons. For instance, waste oil, lubricating greases, and diesel fuels.

But, what about items you can’t burn in an incinerator? It is not suitable for the disposal of non-combustible items, including aerosol cans, glass, and dirt. Do not incinerate refuse containing oils with a flash point lower than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This includes flammable class 1 liquid such as alcohol and gasoline. Also, volatile emissions from burning plastic are not acceptable to most permitting requirements.

SmartAsh design features

Quality materials and design create this truly mobile and convenient incinerator

This incinerator features a heavy-duty, machine-spun, 304-stainless-steel lid and assembly. With quality American Welding Standard (AWS) welding holding the components together.

An elevated stand protects the floor from the heat the unit creates. The internal manual shutter valve allows fine-tuned adjustment of airflow. All of which offer you complete control over the incineration process. The motor covers are simple to remove for easy maintenance and quick air filter access.

The SmartAsh boasts a 330-stainless-steel spark screen, galvanized plenum, and toolbox. It also has a cast iron stir port cover, and a stainless-steel, air-feed hose with quick couplers. Four fast-locking barrel clamps provide a sturdy grip. While the booted toggle switch is weatherproof. The wheels feature brass bearings for smooth mobility.

Need a no-voltage or low-voltage shutdown? The automatic kill switch makes it easy. The electric cord is rear-mounted and shielded, as are the handle and wheels.

Optional incinerator accessories

The OilAway attachment disposes of wet waste like food and hydrocarbons

Two optional accessories are available to enhance the SmartAsh incinerator’s capabilities.

The OilAway attachment pump eliminates waste oil at rates up to 6 gallons per hour. This fuel injection system is for wet loads with a moisture content above 15%. For instance, used motor, jet, or diesel fuels and moist food waste.

SmartHeat works in conjunction with the SmartAsh to save you money on heating and waste disposal costs. It captures and redirects the incinerator’s heat emissions into your building. SmartHeat has a powerful 100 cfm blower that exchanges cool air with warm to heat your facility. All while meeting the EPA’s CFR management standards.

SmartHeat furnace system for SmartAsh incinerator

Team your incinerator with the SmartHeat for your facility’s furnace heating system

What are the benefits of a portable incinerator?

Most importantly, an incinerator helps save you money after a spill. Or, with waste from cleaning up everyday drips and mess. So you can stop paying someone else to dispose of your used absorbents and paper waste. That is to say, you’ll cut your waste disposal costs in the long term. Because you’re enabling your facility to incinerate its own used absorbents and trash.

mobile waste incinerator at a remote location

In remote locations, incinerators offer budget and environmentally-friendly advantages

Incinerators also offer an alternative waste management disposal solution to landfill. Which avoids some of the undesirable consequences of landfill waste. For instance, hazardous refuse leeching toxic chemicals into the ground. And preventing the production of methane gas.

Additionally, this incinerator burns efficiently and cleanly. So it is virtually smoke—and pollution—free. Because this unit is portable, it is even suitable for remote locations without refuse services. SmartAsh applications include everywhere from boats at sea, to lighthouses, to polar camps.

Furthermore, this portable, self-contained incinerator has approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In other words, it meets EPA requirements for air pollution from burnable waste emissions.

We help keep your business costs down

If you’re looking to save some money on operation expenses, consider taking care of your waste disposal internally. By investing in a SmartAsh incineration unit!

Be sure to also check out another environmentally and budget-friendly product. A hand wringer for absorbent materials is ideal for re-using and saving on spill containment and clean-up supplies.

Are you interested in more ways to burn costs at your facilities? To find out how contact Angie Meza at angie@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of October 22, 2015

Keep Your Facility Safe and Neat with Cigarette Butt Receptacles

November 5, 2014 by Travis Zdrazil

Discarded cigarette butts. They’re an ugly nuisance that pose a fire hazard for your workplace and are environmentally unfriendly, too. Even if your employees, and possibly your customers, are smoking outside, their improperly discarded butts still present those problems. That’s why it is important to provide the proper receptacles for extinguishing and discarding cigar and cigarette butts at your place of business.

Having cigarette receptacles on your workplace premises decreases litter and improves the overall safety of your facility — for example, by reducing the risk of fires in trash cans or chemical fires caused by still-lit cigarettes or sparks. AbsorbentsOnline offers cigarette receptacles that provide a safe, clean way to dispose of butts. The receptacles have long necks that restrict oxygen, to reduce smoke and burn time, and sand at the bottom of the unit that prevents the butts from being blown by the wind. The receptacle’s top is covered so that moisture cannot get in — inhibiting unpleasant wet tobacco odors.

Choose from a variety of receptacles
Both metal and polyethylene cigarette receptacles are available. The metal outdoor cigarette receptacles are made of galvanized steel in yellow and beige and are durable enough to provide many years of service. The polyethylene cigarette butt receptacles come in an array of colors and designs to match your building’s aesthetics. Anchor tabs on the receptacle’s base provide secure mounting and wind protection.

If you’re worried about an outdoor cigarette ashtray negatively affecting your building’s appearance, AbsorbentsOnline has a solution for that as well. Decorative outdoor ashtrays are available in three colors and three styles to blend seamlessly with your building’s design. Choose from a classic fluted model, a hitching post design, or even a golf ball style!

You can accommodating smokers without the hassle. Provide safe and clean disposal of cigarette butts by adding one or more cigarette receptacles to your work area.

AbsorbentsOnline is here to help. Feel free to contact us by email or call toll free at (800) 869-9633.

Disposing of Oil-Soaked Rags: What You Should Know

December 11, 2013 by Travis Zdrazil

oily rag Minor oil spills are a common occurrence in the workplace. If you work around forklifts or heavy machinery, chances are you’ll experience an oil spill at some point. Small drops of oil can be easily cleaned with a basic rag. A worker can wipe it up with an old towel and get back to doing his or her profession.

But what happens to the rag once it’s saturated with oil? The volatile organize compounds (VOC) it contains is a serious hazard that may trigger a fire. To learn more about the dangers and how to properly dispose of gasoline-soaked and oily rags, keep reading.

Warning: Oil-Soaked Rags May Spontaneously Combust

Unfortunately, you can’t toss oil-soaked rags into a normal trash receptacle. While laws regarding the disposal of oil-soaked rags vary from state to state, throwing them away in the trash may lead to spontaneous combustion. In case you’ve never heard of this before, let me explain: spontaneous combustion is the combustion (flame) of an object or item without an external heat source.

I know what you’re thinking — how in the world can a rag instantly combust without exposure to a flame or heat source? The oil covering the rag oxides over time, which in turn produces heat. When the oil-soaked rag is crumbled into a ball and tossed into the trash, this type of environment insulates it to encourage even more heat to produce. As this heat builds up, it may eventually reach temperatures high enough to ignite the oil and start a fire. Some people may brush this possibility off, but spontaneous combustion happens more frequently than you may think.

Should I Hang My Oil-Soaked Rags Out To Dry?

Some people hang their oil-soaked rags out to dry before disposing of them. Allowing them to dry in the air helps to remove some of the VOC-rich oil lingering in the fabric. Before you go drying your oil-soaked rags, though, you should first check with your state’s laws. Each state has their own set of laws governing the disposal of oil and oil-soaked fabric. Massachusetts, for instance, suggests drying oil-soaked rags outside (weighted down) before contacting a professional disposal company.

Alternatively, you can hire a commercial laundry company to pick and clean the oil-soaked rags professionally. If you decide to take this route, make sure the company is informed of the rag’s oil content; otherwise, it could end up damaging other linens and fabrics.