RCRA - Generators

A generator is defined as any individual or organization that generates hazardous waste. There are three main categories of generators:

• Large-quantity generators (LQGs) generate more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste or more than one kilogram of acutely hazardous waste per month. Examples of large-quantity generators include petroleum refineries, chemical processing facilities, hazardous waste treatment facilities, and industrial facilities that generate hazardous waste as a byproduct of their manufacturing process (such as manufacturers of explosives, electronics, batteries, and so forth), to name just a few.
• Small-quantity generators (SQGs) generate between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month. This category may apply to facilities, such as dry cleaners, automotive body shops, or health clinics, for which the volume of hazardous waste generated is within the range defined for small-quantity generators.
• Conditionally exempt small-quantity generators (CESQGs) generate any of the following amounts in a given month:
  • Less than 100 kilograms of hazardous waste
  • Less than one kilogram of acutely hazardous waste (that is, waste found on the P-list, such as arsenic, epinephrine, fluorine, nitric acid, and so on, this list can be found at 40 CFR 261.33)
  • Less than 100 kilograms of acutely hazardous waste spill residue

Examples of conditional exempt small-quantity generators might include businesses such as machine shops or photo processors.

To learn more about HAZWOPER visit our HAZWOPER 40 Hour Online Training web page.