Miscellaneous Waste Management Units

The term "miscellaneous unit" is used in reference to certain types of hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal units that are regulated under RCRA, including the following:

• Geologic repositories (underground storage, for example, caves)
• Deactivated missile silos
• Thermal treatment units
• Units used for the open burning or detonation of waste explosives

All miscellaneous waste management units must be designed to protect both human health and the environment. Owners and operators must ensure that these facilities meet requirements similar to those that apply to other types of waste management units, as follows:

• Provide detailed information in the permit application about the unit's design and potential environmental impacts
• Protect the surrounding soil and water supply from the dispersal of hazardous components
• Control any migration of the components through the air

Owners and operators of miscellaneous waste management units are also required to monitor and test the units, and report any accidents or incidents. The owners and operators are also required to properly maintain the units after they are closed, in compliance with regulations found in designated sections of the RCRA.

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