South Carolina’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily derived from the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SCHWMA) and its corresponding regulations found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), establish a framework for the management of hazardous waste. A critical aspect of this framework is the definition of a “hazardous waste generator” and the associated requirements based on the quantity of hazardous waste produced monthly. The generator categories are: Large Quantity Generators (LQGs), Small Quantity Generators (SQGs), and Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs). These categories dictate the specific storage, record-keeping, reporting, and emergency preparedness requirements. For a facility generating hazardous waste, the determination of its generator status is based on the maximum amount of hazardous waste it produces in a calendar month. Specifically, a VSQG is a generator who produces no more than 100 kilograms (approximately 220 pounds or 0.2 metric tons) of hazardous waste per month, or no more than 1 kilogram (approximately 2.2 pounds) of acute hazardous waste per month. An SQG is a generator who produces more than 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,200 pounds or 1 metric ton) of hazardous waste per month. An LQG is a generator who produces 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. Consider a hypothetical facility in Charleston, South Carolina, that consistently generates 150 kilograms of non-acute hazardous waste and 0.5 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in a typical month. To determine its generator status, we must evaluate both waste streams against the monthly production thresholds. The non-acute hazardous waste generation of 150 kilograms falls between the VSQG threshold (≤ 100 kg) and the SQG threshold (< 1000 kg). Therefore, for the non-acute waste, the facility would be considered a Small Quantity Generator. The acute hazardous waste generation of 0.5 kilograms is less than the acute hazardous waste threshold of 1 kilogram for VSQGs. However, the generator status is determined by the *highest* category applicable to any waste stream. Since the non-acute waste generation places the facility in the SQG category, and the acute waste generation does not elevate it to LQG status (which requires > 1 kg of acute hazardous waste), the facility’s overall generator status is that of a Small Quantity Generator. This status mandates compliance with specific requirements outlined in R.61-79 regarding accumulation time limits, personnel training, emergency preparedness, and biennial reporting.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) establishes a framework for the management of hazardous waste within the state. A critical component of this framework is the identification and classification of hazardous waste. The Act, in alignment with federal regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), defines hazardous waste based on specific characteristics or by listing. Characteristic hazardous wastes are those that exhibit one or more of the following properties: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Toxicity is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), which simulates the leaching that occurs in a landfill. If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the regulated constituents, it is classified as a toxic hazardous waste. Listed hazardous wastes are those specifically identified by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as hazardous due to their origin or composition, such as wastes from specific industrial processes (F-list, K-list) or discarded commercial chemical products (P-list, U-list). The generator of a waste is responsible for determining if it is hazardous. This determination involves consulting the definitions and criteria outlined in the SC HWMA and its associated regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), which mirrors federal RCRA regulations. A facility that generates, treats, stores, or disposes of hazardous waste must comply with specific requirements regarding waste management, record-keeping, reporting, and personnel training. The generator’s responsibility extends to ensuring that the waste is properly managed from “cradle to grave,” meaning from its generation until its final disposal. This includes proper labeling, accumulation, and transportation of the waste to a permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility (TSDF). Failure to correctly identify and manage hazardous waste can result in significant penalties.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its associated regulations, specifically the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (SC HWMR), define the framework for managing hazardous waste within the state. A key aspect of this framework is the classification of waste. The SC HWMR, mirroring federal RCRA regulations, establishes criteria for identifying hazardous waste. This includes characteristic hazardous wastes (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity) and listed hazardous wastes. Waste generators are responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous. This determination process involves consulting the SC HWMR, specifically the sections detailing hazardous waste characteristics and listings. For toxicity, the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a critical analytical test. If a waste exhibits any of the characteristics or meets the definition of a listed hazardous waste, it must be managed as such. The scenario describes a facility generating a waste stream that, upon analysis using TCLP, exceeds the regulatory limits for lead. Lead, when present in waste above certain concentrations and leachable under specific conditions, renders the waste a hazardous waste due to its toxicity characteristic. Therefore, the waste is classified as hazardous. The SC HWMR, particularly Regulation 30-6-20(A), outlines the definition of hazardous waste, which includes characteristic wastes. Characteristic waste is defined by exhibiting ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Toxicity is further defined by specific constituent concentrations in a leachate, as determined by TCLP. Lead is one of the constituents for which TCLP limits are established. Exceeding these limits, as indicated in the scenario, mandates hazardous waste management.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, under the purview of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste from generation to disposal. A key aspect of this framework involves the notification and permitting requirements for facilities that handle hazardous waste. Specifically, generators of hazardous waste must comply with notification procedures to inform the state of their activities. This notification process is distinct from the permitting required for Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs), which are subject to more stringent requirements under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and its state-equivalent regulations. The Generator Identification Number (GIN) is a crucial element of the notification process, serving as a unique identifier for entities that generate hazardous waste. This number is obtained by submitting a completed Hazardous Waste Generator Notification Form to SCDHEC. The form requires detailed information about the generator’s operations, including the types and quantities of hazardous waste produced. Obtaining a GIN is a prerequisite for manifesting hazardous waste shipments and is a fundamental step in ensuring that hazardous waste is tracked and managed in accordance with state and federal regulations. Without a GIN, a generator cannot legally transport hazardous waste off-site for treatment or disposal. The notification requirement is not a one-time event; generators must update their information with SCDHEC if there are significant changes in their operations or waste streams. This continuous reporting ensures that the state maintains accurate records of hazardous waste generation within South Carolina.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA), specifically referencing the regulations promulgated under its authority, such as the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (SC HWMR), establishes a framework for the management of hazardous waste. A critical aspect of this framework is the definition and classification of hazardous waste, which dictates the subsequent management requirements. The SC HWMR, aligning with federal definitions under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), defines hazardous waste through two primary mechanisms: listing and characteristic. Listed wastes are those specifically identified by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) as hazardous due to their origin or composition. Characteristic wastes, on the other hand, are wastes that exhibit one or more of four specific properties: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), which simulates the leaching that may occur in a landfill. If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics, or is specifically listed, it is regulated as hazardous waste. The question pertains to the initial determination of whether a waste is hazardous. This determination is the foundational step before any management, treatment, storage, or disposal requirements are applied. Therefore, the most accurate initial step in managing a waste stream suspected of being hazardous is to determine its hazardous nature according to the established criteria within the SC HWMR. This involves evaluating whether the waste meets any of the listed definitions or exhibits any of the hazardous characteristics.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act, specifically R.61-79, outlines the requirements for hazardous waste generators. A key aspect of these regulations pertains to the management of hazardous waste generated by conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs). CESQGs are defined as generators who produce no more than 100 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, do not generate more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month, and do not accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. For CESQGs, the regulations provide a degree of flexibility. They are generally exempt from many of the stringent management requirements that apply to larger quantity generators. However, they are still required to ensure their hazardous waste is managed in a manner that protects human health and the environment. This typically involves sending the waste to a permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF) or a facility that is permitted to manage municipal solid waste and is authorized to accept hazardous waste from CESQGs. The core principle is that while the regulatory burden is lessened for CESQGs, the responsibility for proper disposal remains. The generator must maintain records demonstrating their CESQG status and the destination of their hazardous waste. This demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship even at the smallest generation levels.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) regulates hazardous waste management under the framework of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) as implemented through South Carolina’s own statutes and regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79). A key aspect of this regulation involves the identification and management of hazardous wastes. When a generator produces a waste that is not explicitly listed as hazardous by the EPA or SCDHEC, they must determine if it exhibits any of the four hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. This determination is crucial for proper management, manifesting, and disposal. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), outlined in 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart C, specifically § 261.24. If a waste leaches any of the specified contaminants above the regulatory thresholds, it is classified as a hazardous waste for toxicity. For example, if a waste, when subjected to the TCLP, yields a leachate concentration of lead exceeding 5.0 mg/L, it would be classified as D008 hazardous waste. The generator bears the responsibility for making this hazardous waste determination. This process is fundamental to compliance and preventing environmental contamination.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act, specifically referencing regulations promulgated under the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), outlines the requirements for managing hazardous waste. When a facility generates hazardous waste, it must determine if it qualifies as a small quantity generator (SQG) or a large quantity generator (LQG) based on its monthly generation rate. SQGs are subject to less stringent requirements than LQGs. Specifically, SQGs are permitted to accumulate hazardous waste on-site for up to 180 days without a permit, provided they meet certain conditions such as proper container management, labeling, and manifest usage. If an SQG needs to accumulate waste for more than 180 days but less than 270 days, they can do so if they are sending the waste to a treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF) located within South Carolina or another state within the United States, and this extension is granted only if the delay in finding a TSDF is not due to circumstances within the generator’s control. This provision is detailed in the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations, particularly concerning generator status and accumulation time limits. The determination of generator status is crucial for understanding the applicable compliance obligations under South Carolina law, which often mirrors federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) requirements but may have state-specific nuances or stricter interpretations.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its associated regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), establish a comprehensive framework for managing hazardous waste. A key aspect of this framework is the definition of hazardous waste itself, which is determined by characteristics or listing. Characteristic wastes are those that exhibit ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, as defined by specific criteria. Listed wastes are those specifically identified by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) as hazardous due to their source or process. In South Carolina, the generator of a hazardous waste is primarily responsible for its proper management, including identification, accumulation, and off-site transportation. This responsibility extends to ensuring that any facility receiving the waste is permitted to do so. The regulations outline specific requirements for hazardous waste generators based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. These categories, often referred to as Large Quantity Generators (LQGs), Small Quantity Generators (SQGs), and Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs), have differing accumulation time limits, storage requirements, and reporting obligations. For instance, an LQG in South Carolina can accumulate hazardous waste for up to 90 days without a storage permit, provided they meet specific conditions such as marking containers, keeping them closed, and storing them in designated areas. An SQG has more flexibility, typically allowed to accumulate waste for up to 180 days (or 270 days if the waste must be transported over 200 miles), also with specific container and storage area requirements. VSQGs have even less stringent requirements, often allowed to accumulate waste for longer periods and in smaller quantities. The critical element is that these accumulation time limits are maximums, and generators are encouraged to ship waste as soon as practicable. Exceeding these limits without a permit constitutes illegal storage and can lead to significant penalties. Therefore, understanding the generator status and adhering to the associated accumulation timeframes is fundamental to compliance with South Carolina hazardous waste law.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act, under the authority of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste. When a facility generates hazardous waste, it must determine if it qualifies as a small quantity generator (SQG) or a large quantity generator (LQG) based on its monthly generation rate. These classifications dictate the specific regulatory requirements for storage, record-keeping, personnel training, and emergency preparedness. An SQG, as defined in South Carolina regulations, generates between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. LQGs, conversely, generate 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. A conditionally exempt small quantity generator (CESQG) generates 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month and meets other specific criteria. The scenario describes a facility that has consistently generated 950 kilograms of hazardous waste per month for the past six months. This consistent generation rate places it within the SQG category. Therefore, it must comply with the regulations applicable to SQGs, which are less stringent than those for LQGs but more comprehensive than those for CESQGs. The question probes the understanding of these generator status classifications and their associated regulatory implications under South Carolina law.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its associated regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), establish a framework for managing hazardous waste. A key aspect of this framework is the definition and management of hazardous waste constituents. When a facility generates a waste that is not explicitly listed as hazardous but exhibits characteristics of hazardous waste, it must be managed as such. The identification of hazardous waste is typically performed through testing for specific characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. Toxicity is often determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics, it is considered a characteristic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste material from a manufacturing process in South Carolina, when subjected to the TCLP, leaches a specific metal above the regulatory limit, it is classified as a hazardous waste due to toxicity. The generator is then responsible for managing this waste according to all applicable hazardous waste regulations, including proper storage, labeling, manifesting, and disposal at a permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facility. The SC HWMA aims to protect public health and the environment by ensuring that all hazardous wastes, whether listed or characteristic, are managed cradle-to-grave. This includes the responsibility of the generator to accurately identify and classify their waste streams.

South Carolina’s hazardous waste regulations, particularly those promulgated under the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SCHWMA) and administered by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), establish specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. One critical aspect is the determination of when a solid waste becomes a hazardous waste, thereby triggering the full scope of RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) and state-specific regulations. This determination is often a multi-step process. A generator must first determine if their solid waste is excluded from regulation. If not excluded, they must then determine if it is a listed hazardous waste or exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste. Characteristic wastes are identified through specific testing or knowledge of the process generating the waste. The four characteristics are ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. For toxicity, the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a key analytical tool used to simulate leaching in a landfill. If the TCLP extract for a specific constituent exceeds the regulatory threshold, the waste is deemed toxic and thus hazardous. For a waste to be considered a characteristic hazardous waste due to toxicity, it must fail the TCLP test for at least one of the regulated constituents. The regulatory thresholds are established by EPA and adopted by South Carolina. For example, if a waste contains arsenic at a concentration of 5.5 mg/L in the TCLP extract, and the regulatory limit for arsenic is 5.0 mg/L, then the waste exhibits the toxicity characteristic. This failure to meet the regulatory standard for a specific hazardous constituent, as determined by TCLP, is what classifies the waste as hazardous for toxicity.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) oversees hazardous waste management under the framework of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and its state-specific implementing regulations. A key aspect of this regulatory scheme involves the identification and management of hazardous waste. Certain wastes are listed as hazardous per 40 CFR Part 261 Subpart D, while others are classified as hazardous based on their characteristics, as defined in 40 CFR Part 261 Subpart C. These characteristics include ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. For toxicity, the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a standardized test used to determine if a waste exhibits the toxicity characteristic. If the leachate from a TCLP test for a specific constituent exceeds the regulatory threshold, the waste is classified as hazardous. South Carolina’s regulations, found in the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (SC HWMR), largely mirror the federal RCRA regulations but may include state-specific nuances or additional requirements. The scenario describes a facility generating a waste stream that, after a TCLP analysis for lead, yields a concentration of 15 mg/L. The regulatory limit for lead under the toxicity characteristic is 5.0 mg/L. Therefore, since 15 mg/L is greater than 5.0 mg/L, the waste exhibits the toxicity characteristic for lead and is thus a hazardous waste. This classification triggers all applicable management standards for hazardous waste generators, transporters, and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities within South Carolina. The generator is responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous, which includes performing necessary testing.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, modeled after the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste from generation to final disposal. A critical aspect of this framework is the identification and management of hazardous waste. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) is the primary regulatory body responsible for implementing these regulations. Generators of hazardous waste are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. These categories include conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs), small quantity generators (SQGs), and large quantity generators (LQGs). Each category has specific requirements regarding waste identification, accumulation, manifesting, record-keeping, reporting, and personnel training. For instance, LQGs have the most stringent requirements due to their significant waste generation. The determination of whether a solid waste is also a hazardous waste involves a two-step process: first, determining if it is a solid waste, and second, if it is a solid waste, determining if it is a hazardous waste. A solid waste is a hazardous waste if it is specifically listed by SCDHEC or EPA as hazardous, or if it exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). Generators must maintain records of their hazardous waste activities, including manifests, test results, and training records, for a specified period, typically three years from the date the waste was last sent to a treatment, storage, or disposal facility. This record-keeping requirement ensures accountability and facilitates regulatory oversight.

South Carolina’s hazardous waste management program, primarily governed by the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SCHWMA) and its associated regulations, defines specific requirements for facilities that generate, store, treat, or dispose of hazardous waste. A crucial aspect of this program is the identification and management of hazardous waste. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) framework, adopted by South Carolina, establishes criteria for identifying hazardous waste. These criteria include characteristic wastes, which exhibit properties like ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, and listed wastes, which are specifically identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the state as hazardous due to their origin or composition. When a facility generates a waste stream, it is the generator’s responsibility to determine if that waste is hazardous. This determination is the foundational step in complying with all subsequent management requirements, including permitting, manifesting, record-keeping, and personnel training. Failure to properly classify a waste can lead to significant penalties and environmental liabilities. The process involves consulting regulatory definitions and, if necessary, conducting laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of hazardous characteristics. For instance, a waste exhibiting a flash point below 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) would be classified as ignitable. Similarly, a waste with a pH less than or equal to 2 or greater than or equal to 12.5 would be considered corrosive. The toxicity characteristic is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), which simulates leaching in a landfill. South Carolina regulations mirror these federal definitions, ensuring a consistent approach to hazardous waste identification across the nation, while also allowing for state-specific listings or variations where deemed necessary for environmental protection within the state.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its associated regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), establish the framework for managing hazardous waste within the state. A critical aspect of this framework is the definition of hazardous waste and the responsibilities placed upon generators. Waste is considered hazardous if it exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) or if it is listed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) as hazardous. For a facility that generates hazardous waste, understanding its generator status is paramount, as this status dictates the specific management, storage, and reporting requirements. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) and Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) have different thresholds for the amount of hazardous waste they can accumulate on-site. Specifically, an SQG is a generator who generates between 100 and 1,000 kilograms (kg) of hazardous waste per month, or up to 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. An LQG generates 1,000 kg or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQGs), now often referred to as Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) under federal redefinition, generate 100 kg or less of hazardous waste per month, or up to 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. These classifications are crucial for compliance. If a facility generates 1,100 kg of hazardous waste in a calendar month, it would exceed the 1,000 kg threshold for an SQG and fall into the LQG category. Therefore, the facility would be subject to the more stringent requirements applicable to LQGs, including stricter accumulation time limits, personnel training, emergency preparedness, and biennial reporting. The question asks about the generator status of a facility that produces 1,100 kg of hazardous waste in a month. This amount clearly places the facility in the Large Quantity Generator category, as it exceeds the 1,000 kg monthly threshold.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, specifically the regulations promulgated thereunder, defines what constitutes a hazardous waste. A key aspect of this determination involves characteristic hazardous wastes, which are wastes exhibiting one or more of four characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a regulatory test used to determine if a waste is hazardous due to toxicity. It simulates the leaching that may occur from a waste placed in a landfill. If the leachate from a waste sample, when tested using TCLP, exceeds regulatory thresholds for specific contaminants listed in the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (SC HWM R), the waste is classified as hazardous. For the purpose of this question, we are considering a waste stream that is not specifically listed as hazardous waste by name. The scenario implies that the waste’s hazardous nature is solely determined by its characteristics. The question focuses on the procedural step of waste characterization when a waste is not a listed waste. Under South Carolina regulations, a generator must determine if their solid waste is hazardous. This determination is made by either knowing the waste is listed or by testing for the hazardous characteristics. If the waste is not listed, the generator must determine if it exhibits any of the hazardous characteristics. The Toxicity Characteristic is evaluated using the TCLP. Therefore, if a waste is not a listed hazardous waste and is suspected to be hazardous due to its potential to leach toxic constituents, the appropriate regulatory action to confirm this is to conduct the TCLP. This procedure is mandated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) for waste characterization when listing criteria are not met. The question probes the understanding of the process for characterizing a non-listed waste that may exhibit toxicity.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA), specifically referencing the regulations promulgated thereunder, outlines the requirements for managing hazardous waste. A key aspect of this management is the identification and classification of hazardous waste. When a generator determines that a solid waste exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste, they must assign the appropriate EPA hazardous waste code. For waste exhibiting the characteristic of ignitability, the EPA code is D001. This code signifies that the waste has a flash point less than 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), is a flammable solid, or is an ignitable compressed gas or oxidizing substance. The regulations are designed to ensure that wastes posing a significant risk to human health and the environment are managed under a stringent regulatory framework, including requirements for storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal. Understanding these characteristics and their corresponding codes is fundamental for compliance with South Carolina’s hazardous waste program, which is authorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

South Carolina’s hazardous waste regulations, particularly those administered by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), often incorporate or mirror federal requirements under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A key aspect of hazardous waste management is the proper identification and classification of wastes. When a generator produces a waste that is not explicitly listed as hazardous (e.g., F, K, P, or U lists), they must determine if the waste exhibits any of the hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined through a specific testing procedure outlined in the regulations, known as the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). This procedure simulates the leaching that can occur in a landfill. If the concentration of any of the specified contaminants in the leachate exceeds the regulatory limits, the waste is classified as hazardous. For example, if a waste material, when subjected to the TCLP, yields a leachate concentration of lead at 6.5 mg/L, this would exceed the regulatory limit for lead, which is 5.0 mg/L. Therefore, the waste would be classified as hazardous due to the toxicity characteristic. The generator bears the responsibility for making this determination through testing or by applying knowledge of the waste. Failure to properly classify a waste can result in significant penalties. The regulatory framework emphasizes a proactive approach to waste characterization to ensure environmental protection.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its accompanying regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), establish a framework for the management of hazardous waste. A critical aspect of this framework involves the identification and management of hazardous waste generators. The classification of a generator is determined by the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. A “small quantity generator” (SQG) is defined as a generator who produces more than 1,000 kilograms (kg) but less than 6,000 kg of hazardous waste in a calendar month, or less than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month. Conversely, a “very small quantity generator” (VSQG) produces 100 kg or less of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. A “large quantity generator” (LQG) generates 6,000 kg or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. The scenario describes a facility in South Carolina that consistently generates 1,200 kg of hazardous waste per month and 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. Based on these quantities, the facility exceeds the threshold for a VSQG (100 kg or less) and also for an SQG concerning non-acute hazardous waste (1,000 kg to 6,000 kg). However, the generation of 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste per month falls below the threshold for an LQG concerning acute hazardous waste (more than 1 kg). Therefore, the facility’s classification is determined by the highest category it falls into based on either waste type. Since it generates 1,200 kg of non-acute hazardous waste, it meets the definition of a small quantity generator for that waste stream. The generation of 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste does not elevate it to large quantity generator status for acute waste. Thus, the facility is classified as a small quantity generator.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) defines a generator of hazardous waste based on the quantity of hazardous waste produced per calendar month. Specifically, for large quantity generators (LQGs), the threshold is producing 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kilogram of acutely hazardous waste per month, or more than 100 kilograms of spill residue from acutely hazardous waste per month. Small quantity generators (SQGs) produce between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month. Very small quantity generators (VSQGs) produce 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month. In this scenario, the facility, “Palmetto Processors,” generates 1,200 kilograms of hazardous waste in June and 950 kilograms in July. Since the classification is based on the highest monthly generation rate within a calendar month, the generation of 1,200 kilograms in June clearly places Palmetto Processors in the category of a large quantity generator for that month. Even though July’s generation is below the LQG threshold, the June generation dictates the generator status for the period. The critical factor is the *potential* to generate or the actual generation of hazardous waste exceeding the SQG threshold in any given calendar month. Therefore, Palmetto Processors must manage its hazardous waste activities in accordance with the regulations applicable to large quantity generators. This includes requirements for obtaining an EPA identification number, manifesting hazardous waste shipments, record-keeping, contingency planning, personnel training, and meeting specific storage time limits. The SC HWMA aims to ensure that facilities handling significant amounts of hazardous waste adhere to the most stringent management standards to protect human health and the environment.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste from its generation to its final disposal. A key component of this framework is the definition of hazardous waste itself. Under South Carolina regulations, a waste is considered hazardous if it is specifically listed by the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or if it exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the specified contaminants, it is classified as hazardous. For example, if a waste material, when subjected to the TCLP, yields a leachate containing lead at a concentration of 5.5 mg/L, it would be classified as toxic hazardous waste because the regulatory limit for lead is 5.0 mg/L. This classification triggers a cascade of regulatory requirements, including stringent management, record-keeping, reporting, and disposal protocols designed to protect human health and the environment. The generator of the waste is primarily responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, under the purview of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), establishes a framework for the identification, management, and disposal of hazardous wastes. A critical aspect of this framework is the definition of a hazardous waste generator and the associated regulatory requirements. Generators are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) are those that produce 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram or less of acute hazardous waste per month, and do not accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) generate between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month. Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) generate 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. The regulatory burden and specific management standards increase with the quantity of hazardous waste generated. For instance, LQGs face the most stringent requirements regarding accumulation time limits, personnel training, emergency preparedness, and record-keeping, as outlined in South Carolina’s hazardous waste regulations, which are largely modeled after the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) but may include state-specific nuances. Understanding these thresholds is fundamental for any entity handling hazardous waste within the state to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act, specifically referencing regulations promulgated under the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), addresses the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect of this management is the proper identification and characterization of waste streams to determine if they meet the definition of hazardous waste under state and federal law. This determination is crucial for establishing the applicable management standards, including permitting, storage, treatment, and disposal requirements. South Carolina’s regulations often mirror or are more stringent than federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations. When a facility generates a waste, it is the generator’s responsibility to determine if that waste is hazardous. This determination can be made by either testing the waste or by applying knowledge of the process that generated the waste. If a waste exhibits any of the characteristics of hazardous waste (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity as defined in the regulations) or if it is a listed hazardous waste, it must be managed accordingly. The scenario describes a waste that exhibits the characteristic of toxicity due to the presence of lead above the regulatory threshold. Therefore, it is classified as a hazardous waste. The specific regulation that governs this characteristic toxicity is found within the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations, typically referencing the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) or equivalent state-specific testing protocols to determine if a waste exhibits the characteristic of toxicity. The correct management pathway for such a waste is to comply with all applicable hazardous waste generator, transporter, and treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF) requirements as mandated by South Carolina law and SCDHEC regulations.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA), primarily governed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) under Regulation 61-79, establishes a comprehensive framework for managing hazardous waste from generation to final disposal. A key aspect of this regulation involves the requirements for facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste, often referred to as Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs). These facilities must obtain a Hazardous Waste Facility Permit (HWFP) from SCDHEC. The permit process ensures that these operations are conducted in a manner that protects human health and the environment. Specific requirements for TSDFs include detailed operational standards, contingency planning, personnel training, record-keeping, and reporting. The concept of “closure” is critical for permitted facilities. When a TSDF ceases to operate, it must undergo a formal closure process. This process involves removing or decontaminating all hazardous waste and equipment, as well as managing any remaining contaminated soils or structures. The goal of closure is to eliminate the need for further management of the site and to prevent future releases of hazardous waste. The regulations outline specific steps and standards for achieving this, including the submission of a closure plan for SCDHEC approval and the completion of post-closure care activities if necessary. Financial assurance is also a mandatory component, requiring facilities to demonstrate that they have the financial resources to properly close their facilities and manage any post-closure care.

South Carolina’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily derived from the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and implemented by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), establish stringent requirements for the management of hazardous waste. One critical aspect is the definition of a “hazardous waste” itself, which is determined by characteristics or by listing. Characteristic wastes exhibit ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Listed wastes are those specifically identified by SCDHEC as hazardous. The generator of the waste is primarily responsible for making this hazardous waste determination. This determination is a fundamental step in compliance, influencing all subsequent management activities, including storage, transportation, and disposal. Failure to correctly identify and manage hazardous waste can lead to significant penalties and environmental harm. The concept of “cradle-to-grave” management, inherent in RCRA, means that responsibility for the waste continues from its generation until its final disposition. For a generator, this involves understanding the specific properties of the waste stream and comparing them against regulatory criteria, which may include laboratory analysis or process knowledge.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act (HWMA), codified in Chapter 29 of Title 44 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, establishes the framework for managing hazardous waste within the state. This act grants the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) the authority to implement regulations that are at least as stringent as federal regulations promulgated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A key aspect of this framework involves the identification and management of hazardous waste. Generators of hazardous waste are responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous. This determination is a critical first step in compliance. If a solid waste exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) or is listed as a hazardous waste, it must be managed according to the HWMA. The HWMA also outlines specific requirements for transporters and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs). For generators, understanding their waste stream and correctly classifying it is paramount. This classification dictates subsequent management obligations, including manifesting, record-keeping, and reporting. The Act emphasizes cradle-to-grave management, meaning responsibility for the waste continues from its generation until its final disposition. The definition of a hazardous waste under South Carolina law mirrors federal definitions, encompassing wastes that pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly managed. This includes wastes exhibiting hazardous characteristics or listed wastes.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) regulates hazardous waste management. Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and its state-specific implementation, generators of hazardous waste are responsible for its proper management from “cradle to grave.” This includes accurately identifying and classifying hazardous waste. Waste is considered hazardous if it is specifically listed by the EPA or exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics or is a listed hazardous waste, it must be managed according to strict regulations. The question asks about a scenario where a facility in South Carolina generates a waste that, when subjected to the TCLP, leaches a specific concentration of a regulated constituent exceeding the established regulatory limit. This scenario directly triggers the classification of the waste as hazardous due to toxicity. Therefore, the facility must comply with all applicable South Carolina hazardous waste regulations for generators, transporters, and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs), including obtaining an EPA identification number, manifesting shipments, and meeting land disposal restrictions. The key principle is that exceeding a TCLP limit for any of the regulated constituents makes the entire waste stream hazardous by characteristic.

The South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its accompanying regulations, specifically the South Carolina Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (SC HWMR), govern the management of hazardous waste within the state. A key aspect of these regulations is the definition of hazardous waste itself. The SC HWMR, mirroring federal definitions under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), defines hazardous waste through two primary mechanisms: listing and characteristic. Listed wastes are those specifically identified by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) as hazardous due to their origin or specific properties. Characteristic wastes are those that exhibit one or more of four defined characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), a standardized test used to simulate leaching in a landfill. If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the regulated constituents at concentrations exceeding the established regulatory levels, it is classified as a hazardous waste. Therefore, a waste material that is not explicitly listed as hazardous by SCDHEC and does not exhibit any of the four characteristics of hazardous waste is not considered a hazardous waste under South Carolina law.

South Carolina’s Hazardous Waste Management Act (SC HWMA) and its associated regulations, primarily found in the South Carolina Code of Regulations (R.61-79), govern the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect of this regulatory framework involves the identification and classification of hazardous waste. Under R.61-79.220, a solid waste is considered hazardous if it exhibits certain characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Additionally, wastes can be listed as hazardous by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) if they are derived from specific industrial processes or are known to pose a significant threat to human health and the environment. For a waste to be classified as hazardous due to toxicity, it must fail a specific test. The Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a standardized laboratory test designed to simulate the leaching that occurs when waste is disposed of in a landfill. If the concentration of any of the regulated hazardous constituents in the leachate exceeds the established regulatory levels, the waste is deemed to have the characteristic of toxicity. These regulated constituents and their maximum allowable concentrations are detailed in R.61-79.220(B). For instance, the maximum concentration for lead is 5.0 mg/L, for arsenic is 5.0 mg/L, and for cadmium is 1.0 mg/L. If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics, or is a listed hazardous waste, it must be managed in accordance with the stringent requirements of the SC HWMA, including proper storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal. The generator of the waste is responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous.