Benefits of Universal Waste Rule

The Universal Waste Rule eases the regulatory burden for whatever portion of a handler's waste meets the definition of universal waste. Managing waste as universal waste offers the following benefits to generators, transporters, and destination facilities:

• Universal waste may be accumulated and stored for a full year before its final disposal.
• Universal waste does not count toward the quantity requirements for generator status (for example, the status of being a small quantity generator versus a large quantity generator).
• Universal waste does not require a manifest.
• Universal waste is subject to less stringent marking and labeling requirements.
• Universal waste does not require recordkeeping in some cases.

The volume and types of hazardous waste that generators produce may vary at different times. Because of this, generators may opt to meet the more stringent regulations that pertain to higher volume generation and more toxic waste. By adhering to the more stringent standard, a generator may simplify the burden of regulatory compliance.

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