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Core Responsibilities of the University’s Hazardous Waste Management Program

Ensuring Safe and Compliant Waste Management - The University of Utah’s Hazardous Waste Management Program is dedicated to ensuring the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous (non-radioactive) waste. This program provides direction, oversight, and coordination to maintain regulatory compliance and environmental safety. Key responsibilities include managing the Packaging Facility, developing contingency plans, removing hazardous materials no longer in use, and securing contractor services for waste disposal, including infectious waste disposal contracts. This program also supports the university’s broader commitment to waste minimization, recycling efforts, and pollution prevention.

Things to Consider

Core Responsibilities

  • Consultation, Meetings, and Training
  • Documentation & Records Management
  • Facility & Equipment Reviews
  • Regulated (Hazardous) Waste Facility Operations
  • Facility Contingency Planning
  • Hazardous Materials Inventories & Management
  • Hazardous Waste Collection & Removal
  • Dangerous Goods Shipping (Hazardous Materials)
  • RCRA Inspections & Audits
  • Procurement of Disposal Services
  • Program, Policy & Procedures Development
  • Regulatory Compliance Evaluations & Best Practices
  • Waste Minimization & Recycling Efforts
  • Regulated Waste Disposal Consultation
  • Pollution Prevention & Pre-Treatment Policy Support

(Pickup, transport, characterization, packing, consolidation, shipping)

 

Regulatory Compliance & Applicable Regulations

This program operates in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring the university meets all hazardous waste management requirements:

  • S. EPA, 40 CFR 261, 262, 273 – Hazardous Waste, Universal Wastes & Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
  • S. EPA, 40 CFR 302/313; 305 – EPCRA/CERCLA/SARA Regulations
  • S. Dept. of Transportation, 49 CFR 170 – Hazardous Material Transportation
  • Utah Department of Environmental Quality – State primacy over the above programs
  • Salt Lake County Health Department – Local guidelines and requirements
  • 42 U.S.C. §13101 et seq. (1990) – Pollution Prevention Act
  • 15 U.S.C. §2601 et seq. (1976) – Toxic Substances Control Act

The Hazardous Waste Management Program plays a critical role in protecting human health and the environment, ensuring the university adheres to best practices and regulatory standards.

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