The Maryland Environmental Code (MEC) outlines specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. Under Title 7, Subtitle 10 of the Maryland Code, the Department of the Environment (MDE) is empowered to regulate hazardous waste. Specifically, Maryland’s regulations, often mirroring federal RCRA requirements but with state-specific nuances, address the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. A key aspect of these regulations involves the definition and classification of hazardous waste. Maryland’s definition of hazardous waste, as detailed in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.01.01, includes wastes that are specifically listed by the MDE or exhibit hazardous characteristics such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Furthermore, the state’s regulations may impose additional requirements beyond federal minimums, such as specific permitting procedures or waste minimization mandates for certain generators. For a facility to be considered a “small quantity generator” (SQG) in Maryland, it must meet certain criteria regarding the amount of hazardous waste it generates per month, typically less than 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,200 pounds) of hazardous waste and less than 1 kilogram of acutely hazardous waste. Generators exceeding these thresholds are classified as large quantity generators (LQGs) and are subject to more stringent management and reporting obligations. Understanding these generator status thresholds is fundamental to complying with Maryland’s hazardous waste management program, ensuring appropriate handling, record-keeping, and emergency preparedness measures are in place.

Maryland’s Hazardous Waste Management Administration (HWMA) operates under the authority of the Maryland Environment Article, specifically Title 7, which governs hazardous waste. The core of hazardous waste regulation in Maryland aligns with the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), but often includes stricter or more specific state-level requirements. A critical aspect of managing hazardous waste is determining if a waste exhibits a characteristic of hazardousness, as defined by the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.11.02. This section details the four primary characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. For a waste to be considered toxic under Maryland regulations, it must fail the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) for specific contaminants listed in COMAR 26.13.11.03, Table 1. This table mirrors the federal TCLP list but can be updated by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). The TCLP is a laboratory test designed to simulate leaching that may occur in a landfill. If the leachate from a sample of the waste exceeds regulatory limits for any of the listed constituents, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste leachate contains lead at a concentration of 6.0 mg/L, it would be considered toxic hazardous waste because the TCLP limit for lead is 5.0 mg/L. The generator of the waste is responsible for making this hazardous waste determination.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically those aligned with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and further defined by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), establish a clear framework for managing waste. A key aspect of this framework involves the definition of hazardous waste itself, which can be determined through listing or by characteristic. Characteristic hazardous wastes are those that exhibit properties such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. For a waste to be considered toxic under Maryland regulations, it must fail the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). The TCLP is a standardized test designed to simulate the leaching that occurs when waste is disposed of in a landfill. If the leachate from a waste sample contains any of the specified contaminants at concentrations equal to or exceeding regulatory limits, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste exhibits a concentration of lead in the TCLP leachate that is \(10.0\) mg/L or greater, it would be classified as a characteristic hazardous waste due to toxicity, requiring management under Subtitle C of RCRA and applicable Maryland provisions. This classification dictates stringent requirements for generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal. Understanding the TCLP and its specific constituent thresholds is fundamental to proper hazardous waste determination in Maryland. The regulatory limits are detailed in COMAR 26.13.1.15, which incorporates by reference federal standards.

The Maryland Environmental Code, specifically under Title 7, Subtitle 2, and its implementing regulations found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.01, establishes stringent requirements for hazardous waste management. A key aspect of these regulations pertains to the identification and management of hazardous waste, including the concept of “derived-from” and “mixture” rules. The “mixture rule” (often referencing 40 CFR § 261.24 as adopted by Maryland) states that a solid waste is a hazardous waste if it is a mixture of a solid waste and a hazardous waste. However, this rule has specific exemptions. One significant exemption is when a hazardous waste is mixed with a nonhazardous solid waste and the resulting mixture is then tested and found not to exhibit any of the characteristics of hazardous waste (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity). If the waste, after treatment or blending with a non-hazardous material, no longer meets the definition of hazardous waste as defined by the characteristic tests, it may be managed as a non-hazardous waste. The question scenario describes a situation where a generator has a waste that is initially identified as hazardous due to a characteristic. By mixing it with a non-hazardous solid waste, and subsequently demonstrating through testing that the resultant mixture no longer exhibits hazardous characteristics, the generator can reclassify the waste. This process aligns with the intent of waste management regulations to encourage treatment and reduction of hazardous waste, provided that the final product is demonstrably non-hazardous according to established criteria. The critical factor is the successful demonstration through testing that the hazardous characteristic has been eliminated.

The Maryland Environmental Management Act (Title 7 of the Environment Article of the Maryland Code) establishes the framework for hazardous waste management in the state, mirroring many aspects of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Specifically, the Act delegates authority to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to implement and enforce hazardous waste regulations. For a facility generating hazardous waste, understanding the applicable regulatory thresholds is paramount. Maryland regulations, consistent with federal RCRA, define generator categories based on the quantity of hazardous waste produced per month. These categories dictate the specific requirements for storage, record-keeping, manifesting, and reporting. A small quantity generator (SQG) in Maryland is defined as a facility that generates between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or accumulates no more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. This classification triggers less stringent, but still significant, regulatory obligations compared to large quantity generators. Key responsibilities for SQGs include obtaining an EPA identification number, adhering to accumulation time limits (typically 180 days, with a possible 60-day extension if transporting to a treatment, storage, or disposal facility located within 200 miles), ensuring proper labeling and container management, and using the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest system for off-site shipments. The Act also emphasizes the importance of waste minimization plans for all generators. Therefore, accurately classifying a generator based on monthly throughput is the foundational step in ensuring compliance with Maryland’s hazardous waste laws.

The Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Act (Title 7, Subtitle 2 of the Environment Article of the Maryland Code) and its accompanying regulations, found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13, establish a comprehensive framework for the management of hazardous waste. A critical aspect of this framework is the identification and management of waste that exhibits hazardous characteristics. These characteristics are ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. A waste is considered toxic if it exceeds the regulatory threshold for any of the constituents listed in COMAR 26.13.10.01, which are derived from the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart C. Specifically, if a waste, when subjected to the TCLP, yields a leachate containing any of the listed contaminants at or above the specified regulatory concentration levels, it is classified as toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste leachate contains lead at a concentration of 5.5 mg/L, which exceeds the TCLP regulatory limit of 5.0 mg/L for lead, the waste would be classified as toxic hazardous waste under Maryland regulations. This classification triggers specific requirements for generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal, including manifesting, record-keeping, and adherence to land disposal restrictions. The goal is to prevent the release of harmful substances into the environment and protect public health.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) regulates hazardous waste management under the Annotated Code of Maryland, Natural Resources Article, Title 7, Subtitle 2. Specifically, the regulations found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.01 through 26.13.19 outline the requirements for hazardous waste generators, transporters, and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs). A key aspect of these regulations pertains to the management of hazardous waste that is generated by a facility and then stored on-site before being shipped off-site for disposal or treatment. The regulations establish specific time limits and quantity thresholds for on-site storage of hazardous waste by different generator categories. For a small quantity generator (SQG), the regulations permit the accumulation of up to 6,000 kilograms (approximately 13,228 pounds) of hazardous waste on-site for up to 180 days without a storage permit. However, if the waste is being transported to a TSDF located more than 200 miles away, the accumulation period can be extended to 270 days. The critical factor in this scenario is the distance to the permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility. Since the waste is being transported to a facility more than 200 miles from the generator’s site, the extended 270-day accumulation period applies. Therefore, a small quantity generator in Maryland can accumulate up to 6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste on-site for a maximum of 270 days when the destination TSDF is located more than 200 miles away.

The Maryland Environmental Management Act, specifically Title 7 of the Environment Article of the Maryland Code, governs hazardous waste management. Subtitle 4 of Title 7 establishes the framework for hazardous waste management, including the identification, generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is the primary regulatory agency responsible for implementing and enforcing these provisions. A key aspect of this framework is the concept of “cradle-to-grave” management, ensuring accountability for hazardous waste from its generation to its final disposition. This includes requirements for hazardous waste generators, transporters, and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs). Maryland’s regulations often mirror or are more stringent than federal regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The definition of hazardous waste in Maryland is broad and includes wastes exhibiting characteristics of ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, as well as those listed by the EPA or the MDE. Generators are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month, with different requirements for large quantity generators, small quantity generators, and conditionally exempt small quantity generators. Transporters must comply with manifesting requirements and ensure proper containment and labeling. TSDFs must obtain permits and adhere to strict operating standards. The Act also addresses issues like hazardous waste planning, emergency preparedness, and citizen participation.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.01.07, define criteria for determining if a solid waste is a hazardous waste. This section outlines the process for characteristic hazardous wastes, which are wastes exhibiting ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. A waste is considered hazardous if it meets any of these characteristics. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), as outlined in COMAR 26.13.01.07 B. The TCLP simulates the leaching that may occur from a waste in a landfill. If the leachate from a TCLP test contains any of the specified contaminants at concentrations equal to or exceeding the regulatory limits, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste is subjected to the TCLP and the resulting leachate has a concentration of benzene of 0.5 mg/L, and the regulatory limit for benzene under the toxicity characteristic is 0.5 mg/L, then the waste would be considered a characteristic hazardous waste due to toxicity. This regulatory framework ensures that wastes posing a significant threat to human health and the environment due to their inherent properties are managed under stringent controls. The determination is a critical first step in the cradle-to-grave management of hazardous waste in Maryland.

The Maryland Environmental Code, specifically under Title 7, Subtitle 2, outlines the requirements for hazardous waste management. The question focuses on the definition of a “facility” as it pertains to hazardous waste generators and transporters. A facility, in this context, is broadly defined to include any site where hazardous waste is generated, stored, treated, disposed of, or transported. This definition is crucial for determining regulatory applicability. For a small quantity generator in Maryland, the threshold for hazardous waste generation is between 100 kilograms and 1,000 kilograms per month. A facility that exclusively stores hazardous waste generated on-site, and whose storage activities do not exceed the quantity limits for a small quantity generator, is still considered a facility subject to certain regulations. The key is the activity involving hazardous waste, not solely the quantity generated if that quantity falls within specific generator status thresholds. Therefore, a site that stores less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste generated from its own operations, and does not engage in treatment or disposal, is still a regulated facility under Maryland law. This is because the definition encompasses storage activities, regardless of whether the waste is from a small or large quantity generator, as long as the storage itself does not exceed specific accumulation timeframes or quantity limits that might exempt it entirely from certain reporting or permitting requirements. The focus is on the presence of hazardous waste and the management activities performed.

Maryland’s Hazardous Waste Management Administration, operating under the Department of the Environment, enforces regulations that align with federal standards set by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) but also includes state-specific provisions. A key aspect of these regulations pertains to the management of hazardous waste at the generator level, specifically concerning the accumulation of waste on-site before it is shipped for treatment, storage, or disposal. Under Maryland law, a large quantity generator (LQG) is permitted to accumulate hazardous waste on-site for 90 days without a permit, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include adhering to specific quantity limits for accumulated waste, proper container management, labeling, and emergency preparedness. For instance, an LQG cannot accumulate more than 1000 kilograms of hazardous waste, or more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste, at any one time. Furthermore, the accumulation areas must be clearly marked and have appropriate secondary containment. Failure to comply with these accumulation time limits or quantity restrictions can result in the generator being considered in violation of hazardous waste regulations, potentially leading to enforcement actions by the state. The 90-day clock begins when the first drop of hazardous waste is placed into a particular accumulation unit. The regulations also specify that the generator must have a manifest for each shipment of hazardous waste, and this manifest must accompany the waste from the point of generation to its final destination. The generator is responsible for ensuring that the waste is properly characterized, managed, and transported by a licensed hazardous waste transporter to a permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically under the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.13.01.04, define a hazardous waste based on its characteristics or if it is listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For a waste to be considered hazardous due to its characteristics, it must exhibit one or more of four defined properties: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), as outlined in COMAR 26.13.01.04 B(3) and incorporated by reference from 40 CFR Part 261, Appendix C. If a waste, when subjected to the TCLP, leaches specific contaminants (such as certain heavy metals, pesticides, or organic compounds) at concentrations exceeding regulatory thresholds, it is classified as toxic and therefore hazardous. The question focuses on the regulatory mechanism for identifying a waste as hazardous based on its inherent properties, independent of its source or prior management. The correct identification hinges on understanding that exhibiting any of the four characteristic properties, as defined and tested under Maryland regulations, is sufficient for a waste to be regulated as hazardous.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, govern the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect of these regulations is the definition and management of hazardous waste generators. Generators are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. The classification dictates the specific requirements for storage, record-keeping, reporting, and emergency preparedness. A very small quantity generator (VSQG) is defined as a generator who produces no more than 100 kilograms (approximately 220 pounds) of hazardous waste per month, or no more than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month, and accumulates no more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. A small quantity generator (SQG) is defined as a generator who produces more than 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, and accumulates no more than 6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. A large quantity generator (LQG) is defined as 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, or accumulates more than 6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. The scenario involves a facility that consistently generates 950 kilograms of hazardous waste per month and has a maximum accumulation of 5,500 kilograms on site. Based on these figures, the facility falls into the small quantity generator category as it produces between 100 and 1,000 kilograms per month and accumulates less than 6,000 kilograms. This classification triggers specific regulatory obligations under Maryland law, distinct from those for VSQGs or LQGs.

The Maryland Environmental Management Act, specifically under the authority granted to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), governs hazardous waste management. The question probes the understanding of how the state addresses the management of hazardous waste generated by small quantity generators (SQGs). In Maryland, SQGs are defined based on their monthly generation rates of hazardous waste. While federal regulations (40 CFR Part 262) provide a baseline, states can implement more stringent requirements. Maryland’s regulations, often mirroring or exceeding federal standards, categorize generators into large quantity generators (LQGs), small quantity generators (SQGs), and conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs). The threshold for SQGs under federal law is generating between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or accumulating more than 1,000 kilograms but less than 6,000 kilograms at any one time. Maryland’s framework, as outlined in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, generally aligns with these federal thresholds for generator status. Therefore, a facility generating 500 kilograms of hazardous waste in a given month would fall within the SQG category, subject to specific accumulation time limits and manifest requirements, but with less stringent operational and contingency planning requirements compared to LQGs. The key is the monthly generation rate.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically under the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, address the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect of these regulations involves the definition of hazardous waste and the criteria for its identification. When a solid waste exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste, it is regulated as such. The characteristic of corrosivity is defined by a pH range. Specifically, a liquid waste is considered corrosive if it has a pH less than or equal to 2.0 or greater than or equal to 12.5. A solid waste is considered corrosive if, when mixed with water in a specific ratio, it can corrode steel at a specified rate. The regulation specifies that a solid waste is corrosive if it is capable of corroding the steel (SAE 1020) at a rate greater than 6.35 mm (0.250 inch) per year when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) G31-72 (1985) standard, “Standard Practice for Laboratory Immersion Corrosion Testing of Metals.” This standard involves specific procedures for sample preparation, exposure conditions, and measurement of metal loss. Therefore, a solid waste that meets this corrosion rate criterion is classified as a hazardous waste due to the characteristic of corrosivity under Maryland law.

The Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Act (MHWMA) and its associated regulations, specifically the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, govern the management of hazardous waste within the state. A key aspect of this framework is the definition and management of “used oil.” Used oil, when mixed with other hazardous wastes, is generally considered a hazardous waste itself, unless specific exemptions or management standards are met. The MHWMA aims to prevent the improper disposal of hazardous substances to protect public health and the environment. When a generator mixes used oil with a listed hazardous waste, such as a solvent classified under the characteristic of ignitability or toxicity, the resulting mixture typically loses its “used oil” status for regulatory purposes and must be managed as a hazardous waste according to the most stringent applicable requirements. This is because the hazardous constituents from the listed waste can impart hazardous properties to the entire mixture, making it subject to the full cradle-to-grave management requirements of the MHWMA, including manifesting, storage limitations, and disposal at permitted facilities. The intent is to ensure that all materials posing a significant environmental or health risk are tracked and managed appropriately, preventing their release into the environment through improper mixing or disposal.

The Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Administration, under the purview of the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), establishes specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. One critical aspect is the classification and tracking of waste streams. If a generator produces a waste that exhibits characteristics of hazardous waste, such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, it must be managed according to hazardous waste regulations. The Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) is a key analytical test used to determine if a waste is hazardous due to its potential to leach toxic constituents into groundwater. If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the regulated contaminants, it is classified as a hazardous waste. For such wastes, Maryland law mandates specific manifest requirements for transportation, record-keeping, and reporting. Generators are responsible for accurately identifying their waste streams and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations, including those pertaining to storage, treatment, and disposal. The generator’s initial determination of whether a waste is hazardous is a fundamental step in the entire hazardous waste management process in Maryland. This determination dictates subsequent management practices and regulatory obligations.

Maryland’s Hazardous Waste Management Administration, under the Environment Article of the Maryland Code, outlines specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect is the determination of whether a waste material qualifies as hazardous. This determination is primarily based on whether the waste is specifically listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or exhibits certain hazardous characteristics. The characteristic hazards are ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. For a waste to be considered hazardous in Maryland due to toxicity, it must be capable of causing death or serious illness or pose a hazard to human health or the environment when improperly managed. This is often determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test, which simulates leaching in a landfill. If the TCLP analysis for any of the 40 federally regulated toxic constituents exceeds the established regulatory levels, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. The question hinges on understanding that a waste is considered hazardous if it meets *either* the listed criteria *or* the characteristic criteria, and the scenario describes a waste that, while not explicitly listed, exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste as defined by Maryland regulations, which are largely aligned with federal RCRA definitions. Specifically, the presence of a constituent exceeding TCLP limits makes it a toxic hazardous waste.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) requires specific procedures for the management of hazardous waste. Under the Maryland Environmental Code, specifically Title 26, Subtitle 4, and its associated regulations, a generator of hazardous waste is responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous. This determination is crucial for proper manifesting, storage, and disposal. If a facility generates a waste that exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) or is a listed hazardous waste, it must be managed according to these regulations. The question focuses on a generator’s responsibility to identify and classify their waste before it leaves their site. The correct answer reflects the foundational requirement of waste characterization for any entity generating hazardous waste in Maryland. The other options present scenarios that, while potentially related to hazardous waste management, do not represent the initial and primary responsibility of the generator in this context. For instance, obtaining a specific EPA identification number is a subsequent step after waste determination, and while a generator must comply with storage time limits, the initial classification is paramount. Furthermore, the requirement for a manifest is tied to the generation of hazardous waste, which necessitates prior identification.

The Maryland Environmental Code, specifically under Title 7, Subtitle 2, addresses the management of hazardous waste. A key aspect is the definition of a “generator” and the associated requirements. A large quantity generator (LQG) in Maryland is defined by the amount of hazardous waste generated per month. According to the regulations, an LQG is a generator who generates 1,000 kilograms (kg) or more of hazardous waste in a single month, or more than 1 kilogram (kg) of acute hazardous waste in a single month, or more than 100 kilograms (kg) of spill residue from acute hazardous waste in a single month. The scenario describes a facility generating 1,200 kg of hazardous waste in July and 950 kg in August. For July, the generation of 1,200 kg clearly exceeds the 1,000 kg threshold for LQG status. Even though August’s generation is below the threshold, the determination of LQG status is typically based on the highest generation rate in a given month or a rolling average depending on specific regulatory nuances not detailed here, but the initial exceedance in July is sufficient to classify them as an LQG for that period and potentially subsequent periods depending on re-notification requirements. The question asks about the classification for the month of July. Since 1,200 kg is greater than 1,000 kg, the facility is classified as a large quantity generator for July.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, establish a framework for managing hazardous waste from generation to disposal. The definition of a “hazardous waste” is crucial and is often determined by specific listing criteria or by exhibiting certain characteristics. Characteristic hazardous wastes are those that are ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic. Toxicity is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), a standardized test. If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics, it is considered hazardous under Maryland law, regardless of whether it is specifically listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the state. This ensures that wastes with inherent dangerous properties are regulated. The question asks about a waste exhibiting a characteristic but not being a listed waste. Under Maryland law, a waste that exhibits any of the four characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) is classified as a hazardous waste. The TCLP is the method used to determine if a waste is toxic. Therefore, a waste that fails the TCLP for a specific constituent, even if it is not on the P, U, K, or F lists, is still a hazardous waste in Maryland due to its characteristic of toxicity. This aligns with the principle of regulating based on actual hazard.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) oversees hazardous waste management within the state, primarily through the Maryland Environmental Code (MEC) and associated regulations, which are largely aligned with the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A key aspect of this regulatory framework involves the identification and management of hazardous waste. When a generator produces a waste that is not explicitly listed as hazardous under federal or state regulations, they must determine if it exhibits any of the four hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), a standardized test. If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the regulated constituents, it is classified as hazardous. For example, if a waste generated by a metal plating facility in Baltimore contains lead at a concentration exceeding the TCLP limit of 5.0 mg/L, it would be considered a characteristic hazardous waste. This determination triggers stringent management requirements, including proper storage, labeling, manifesting for transportation, and disposal at a permitted Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF). The generator bears the ultimate responsibility for accurately characterizing their waste. The question focuses on the generator’s responsibility to determine if a waste exhibits hazardous characteristics, specifically referencing the TCLP as the method for toxicity determination, which is a core concept in hazardous waste regulation in Maryland and federally. The correct response must reflect this fundamental duty of the generator.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) establishes specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. Under the Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (COMAR 26.13.01 et seq.), generators are responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous. This determination involves consulting the listed hazardous wastes (F, K, P, U lists) and evaluating the waste against characteristic hazardous waste criteria (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity). If a waste meets any of these criteria or is listed, it is considered hazardous. The scenario describes a facility generating a waste solvent mixture that exhibits a pH of 1.5. This characteristic of low pH (less than or equal to 2) directly classifies the waste as corrosive hazardous waste according to the definition of corrosivity in COMAR 26.13.01.01(B)(2). Therefore, the facility must manage this waste in accordance with Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, including obtaining an EPA identification number, manifesting shipments, and ensuring proper storage and disposal. The critical aspect is the direct classification based on the corrosive characteristic, which mandates adherence to the stringent management standards applicable to hazardous waste generators in Maryland.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically under the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, govern the management of hazardous waste within the state. A key aspect of these regulations is the definition of a “generator” and the associated requirements based on the quantity of hazardous waste produced per month. A “small quantity generator” (SQG) in Maryland is defined as a generator who produces between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. A “large quantity generator” (LQG) is defined as 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. The question scenario involves a facility that generates 950 kilograms of hazardous waste per month and 0.5 kilograms of acute hazardous waste per month. Based on these quantities, the facility does not meet the threshold for an LQG, which requires 1,000 kg or more of hazardous waste or more than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste. However, it also exceeds the threshold for a “conditionally exempt small quantity generator” (CESQG), which is generally defined as producing 100 kg or less of hazardous waste per month and less than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. Therefore, the facility qualifies as a small quantity generator (SQG) under Maryland’s regulatory framework, as its hazardous waste generation falls within the 100-1,000 kg range, and its acute hazardous waste generation is below the LQG threshold for acute hazardous waste. The regulations for SQGs are less stringent than those for LQGs but more stringent than for CESQGs, requiring specific manifest procedures, container management, and preparedness and prevention plans, among other requirements.

Maryland’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, establish a framework for managing hazardous waste from generation to disposal. A key aspect of this framework is the definition of hazardous waste itself, which includes characteristic hazardous wastes and listed hazardous wastes. Characteristic hazardous wastes are defined by specific properties such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), a standardized test designed to simulate leaching in a landfill. If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics, or if it is a listed hazardous waste, it is subject to the full scope of Maryland’s hazardous waste management program, including requirements for identification, generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) enforces these regulations. The question probes the understanding of how a waste is classified as hazardous under Maryland law, specifically focusing on the characteristic of toxicity as determined by the TCLP. The correct answer identifies the regulatory basis for this classification within Maryland’s framework.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) enforces regulations that govern hazardous waste management within the state. 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 rates. These classifications dictate specific management, storage, and reporting requirements. For a generator to be classified as an SQG, they must not accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms (kg) of hazardous waste at any one time, nor accumulate more than 1 kilogram (kg) of acutely hazardous waste. Furthermore, an SQG cannot accumulate more than 100 kg of any residue or contaminated material from the cleanup of a spill of acutely hazardous waste. If a generator exceeds these thresholds at any point, they are reclassified as an LQG for that month and must comply with the more stringent LQG requirements. The question asks about the cumulative monthly generation limit for a facility to maintain its SQG status. This limit is directly derived from the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations, as adopted and potentially augmented by Maryland. Specifically, an SQG is defined as a generator who generates between 100 kg and 1,000 kg of hazardous waste per month. The key is that at no point can they accumulate more than 1,000 kg of non-acutely hazardous waste or more than 1 kg of acutely hazardous waste. The question focuses on the total hazardous waste generated per month to maintain SQG status, which is up to 1,000 kg.

Maryland’s Hazardous Waste Management Administration (HWMA) under the Department of the Environment (MDE) oversees the state’s hazardous waste program, which is primarily governed by the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04. Specifically, COMAR 26.13.01 through 26.13.11 detail the requirements for hazardous waste identification, generation, management, and disposal. A key aspect of this regulatory framework is the generator status, which dictates the level of regulatory burden placed upon an entity. Generators are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) generate 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram or less of acute hazardous waste per month. 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 question asks about the maximum monthly generation limit for a Small Quantity Generator (SQG) in Maryland, excluding acute hazardous waste. Based on the definitions, an SQG generates more than 100 kg but less than 1,000 kg of non-acute hazardous waste per month. Therefore, the upper limit for an SQG, before becoming an LQG for non-acute hazardous waste, is just under 1,000 kg. The regulations often use “less than” thresholds. Thus, generating 999 kg of non-acute hazardous waste per month would still classify an entity as an SQG.

The Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Administration, under the authority of the Environment Article of the Maryland Code, specifically addresses the management of hazardous waste. When a generator produces hazardous waste, they are subject to stringent tracking and reporting requirements. This includes the use of a manifest system, which is a crucial document for tracking hazardous waste from its point of generation to its final disposal. The manifest is required for off-site transportation of hazardous waste. The regulations, particularly those found in COMAR 26.13.01, outline the specific requirements for hazardous waste generators, including record-keeping and reporting. For a small quantity generator in Maryland, the manifest requirement applies when they transport hazardous waste off-site for treatment, storage, or disposal. The manifest serves as a cradle-to-grave tracking document, ensuring accountability at each stage of the waste’s journey. Understanding the generator status (e.g., small quantity generator, large quantity generator) is key, as requirements can vary. However, the fundamental principle of manifest use for off-site shipments of hazardous waste remains consistent across generator categories when such shipments occur. Therefore, any off-site shipment of hazardous waste by a small quantity generator in Maryland necessitates the use of a manifest.

The Maryland Environmental Management Act (Title 7 of the Environment Article of the Maryland Code) establishes the framework for hazardous waste management in the state. Specifically, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is empowered to develop and enforce regulations governing hazardous waste. These regulations, found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 26, Subtitle 04, address various aspects of hazardous waste management, including identification, generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal. A key concept within these regulations is the definition of a hazardous waste generator. Maryland follows the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) definitions for hazardous waste, but also has its own specific criteria and thresholds for generator status. Generators are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. These categories determine the specific management requirements and permitting obligations. For instance, a very small quantity generator (VSQG) has different requirements than a small quantity generator (SQG) or a large quantity generator (LQG). The regulations also address generator responsibilities concerning waste characterization, accumulation time limits, manifest requirements, and emergency preparedness. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for any entity handling hazardous waste within Maryland to ensure compliance and prevent environmental harm.

The Maryland Hazardous Waste Management Act, specifically referencing the regulations promulgated under the Environment Article of the Maryland Code, establishes a framework for the identification, management, and disposal of hazardous waste. A key aspect of this framework is the concept of “cradle-to-grave” responsibility, which places the onus on generators, transporters, and treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF) operators to ensure proper handling throughout the waste’s lifecycle. When a generator ceases operations and has hazardous waste remaining on-site that requires management, the responsibility for its proper management does not simply disappear. Instead, the generator’s obligation continues. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) oversees these activities and enforces compliance with the state’s hazardous waste regulations, which are often more stringent than federal requirements. The regulations require that any person who owns or operates a facility that generates hazardous waste must manage that waste in accordance with the applicable provisions. If a generator closes its facility, it must still ensure that any hazardous waste on-site is managed properly, which may involve obtaining permits, arranging for transportation by a licensed hazardous waste transporter, and ensuring disposal at a permitted TSDF. The MDE may require specific closure activities, including the removal of all hazardous waste, to ensure no residual contamination or unmanaged hazardous materials remain. Therefore, the generator’s responsibility persists even after ceasing operations, necessitating continued compliance with hazardous waste management requirements.