Uses & Characteristics of Used Oil

The category of used oil encompasses nearly every petroleum-based or synthetic substance that is used for lubrication, heat transfer, or hydraulic fluid. The widespread generation of used oil, along with its potential to damage the environment, requires that it be managed properly to protect human health and the environment. Used oil can be handled as follows:

• Burned as a fuel
• Recycled
• Disposed of or discarded

Even though used oil may exhibit hazardous waste characteristics, typically used oil by itself is not considered to be a hazardous waste unless it has been mixed with other materials.

When used oil meets the criteria to be considered a hazardous waste, it must be managed as hazardous waste. In that case, handlers of used oil containing hazardous materials must comply with the RCRA regulations for hazardous waste management.

To learn more about RCRA visit our RCRA Hazardous Waste Safety Online Training web page.