Use of a Manifest System

When a facility receives wastes and accompanying documentation from an outside source, the shipment must be accompanied by a manifest, or invoice, that details the cargo in the delivery. When the shipment is received, the owner or operator of the receiving facility, or his or her agent, must sign and date the manifest. The receiving owner or operator must add notes if there are any differences between the manifest and the actual shipment. These are referred to as "discrepancies." Each copy of the document must be signed and dated by hand. One copy needs to be given immediately to the transporter, and one is sent to the hazardous waste generator. Another copy must be kept at the waste management facility for at least three years after the date of delivery.

In all cases, within three working days of receiving the shipment, the facility must provide copies of the document to the exporter, to the EPA, and to competent authorities in all involved countries.

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