Recyclers News Press
Page 22
Updated Rule for Disposal of
Solvent-Contaminated Wipes
Good News Bad News
On July 31, 2013 the rule that governs the disposal
of solvent-contaminated wipes was finalized to ex-
empt spent solvent-contaminated wipes from haz-
ardous waste regulations if the waste meets certain
criteria. Effective January 31, 2014, spent shop rags
and paper towels used with parts cleaning solvent
are no longer subject to a hazardous waste regula-
tion if managed appropriately (and not otherwise
governed by state or local rules).
The new management standard stream-
lines the handling of spent wipes.
To implement the exemption criteria, an automotive
shop using either launderable shop rags or dispos-
able towels must assure that the spent wipes are
stored in properly labeled, leak-proof containers un-
til disposal to the laundry facility or the landfill via
trash collection, respectively.
The container can be any closed container labeled
“Excluded Solvent-Contaminated Wipes”
and does
NOT have to be sealed, only closed, during accu-
mulation.
Upon disposal the container must be sealed for
transport (any free liquid solvent found in the con-
tainer at time of disposal must be managed as haz-
ardous waste).
The
good news is
that a garbage bag can be tied-off
and considered a sealed container and placed in
the regular municipal trash for collection, as long the
state or local authority does not ban such waste. A
label printed from a desktop printer and affixed to
the container or bag will suffice.
The
bad news is
that the spent wipes must be seg-
regated from other wastes until such time as sent
for laundering or disposal. The frequency at which
the laundry and/or trash is picked up must also be
well-documented to prove that the spent wipes have
been disposed within 180 days of generation.
The updated rule and subsequent exclusion has
been a long time coming with inquiry and studies
dating back to 1994. The rule is based in a thorough
course of investigation that found spent solvent-
contaminated wipes do not pose a risk of pollution
when handled in this manner. A particular solvent,
trichloroethylene, not generally used in automotive
work is not included in the exemption. For more
information on this rulemaking, go to:
