Missing Return Manifests

The regulations do not state how quickly the waste must arrive at the final destination. However, the regulations do require the generator to watch for the arrival of the return copy of the manifest that includes the signature of the designated final recipient.

For LQGs, if the return manifest has not been received within 35 days of the date the initial transporter accepted the waste, the generator must contact the transporter and the designated receiving facility to determine the status of the waste. If the copy of the manifest is not received within 45 days, the LQG must submit an Exception Report to the EPA regional administrator.

The reporting requirements for SQGs are different. If a properly signed copy of the manifest is not received from the designated final recipient of the waste within 60 days, the generator must submit to the regional EPA office a copy of the manifest and a note indicating that no return manifest was received.

To learn more about RCRA safety standards visit our RCRA Refresher Online Training web page.