Distributing & Using the Manifest

The generator must provide a sufficient number of copies of the manifest to meet the following requirements:

• The generator has a copy to keep.
• Each transporter receives a copy.
• The treatment, storage, or disposal facility receives a copy.
• One or more copies may be returned to the generator upon completion of the process.

Prior to distributing and using the manifest, the generator must take the following actions:

• Sign the manifest certification by hand
• Obtain the handwritten signature of the initial transporter, and the date of acceptance of the hazardous materials
• Keep one copy of the manifest in accordance with 40 CFR 262.40 (a)
• Give the remaining copies of the manifest to the transporter

In certain situations, special procedures are required for the distribution of the manifest. Refer to the regulations in the following situations:

• Bulk shipments of hazardous waste transported within the United States solely by water (refer to 40 CFR 262.23 [c])
• Rail shipments of hazardous waste transported within the United States that originate at the site of generation (refer to 40 CFR 262.23 [d])
• Shipments of hazardous waste to facilities within a state that does not yet regulate that particular waste as hazardous (refer to 40 CFR 262.23 [e])
• Rejected shipments of hazardous waste or container residues that are returned to the generator by the facility designated on the manifest (refer to 40 CFR 262.23 [f])

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