The question revolves around the concept of “cradle-to-grave” responsibility under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) as implemented in Florida. This principle means that the generator of hazardous waste remains legally responsible for the waste from its creation until its final, safe disposal, even if the waste is transported and treated by third-party entities. Florida’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily found in Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, mirror federal RCRA requirements. Specifically, the generator’s liability extends to ensuring that the waste is properly managed at all stages, including transportation and treatment. If a treatment facility fails to manage the waste appropriately, leading to environmental harm or improper disposal, the original generator can still be held liable for the cleanup and any associated damages. This is a crucial aspect of hazardous waste management, emphasizing the importance of selecting reputable and compliant transporters and treatment facilities. The generator’s duty is not merely to send the waste away but to ensure its ultimate safe disposition. Therefore, the generator’s responsibility does not cease upon the waste leaving their site; it continues throughout the entire lifecycle of the hazardous waste.

The question asks to identify the primary regulatory mechanism in Florida for managing hazardous waste from its generation to its final disposal, specifically focusing on the state’s adoption and implementation of federal standards. Florida, like other states, is authorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to administer its own hazardous waste program, provided it is at least as stringent as the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). This authorization is codified in Florida Statutes Chapter 403, which grants the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) the authority to develop and enforce regulations. The core of Florida’s hazardous waste management framework is found within the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) Chapter 62-730, which mirrors and often supplements the federal RCRA regulations. This chapter details requirements for hazardous waste generators, transporters, treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs), including manifest systems, record-keeping, permitting, and specific management standards for various waste codes. While other statutes and rules may touch upon environmental protection or waste management in a broader sense, F.A.C. 62-730 is the definitive and most comprehensive regulation governing hazardous waste in Florida, directly implementing the RCRA framework at the state level. The concept of “cradle-to-grave” management, a cornerstone of RCRA, is thoroughly addressed within these Florida regulations, ensuring accountability throughout the hazardous waste lifecycle.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Generators of hazardous waste are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. A Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) generates 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram or less of acutely hazardous waste per month. A Small Quantity Generator (SQG) generates between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month. A Large Quantity Generator (LQG) generates 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month. The question asks about a facility that generates 800 kilograms of hazardous waste per month and 0.5 kilograms of acutely hazardous waste per month. This amount of hazardous waste (800 kg) falls within the SQG threshold of 100 to 1,000 kg/month. The amount of acutely hazardous waste (0.5 kg) is below the VSQG threshold for acutely hazardous waste (1 kg/month), but the classification of a generator is primarily determined by the total quantity of hazardous waste, with acutely hazardous waste having a lower threshold for the highest generator category. Since the total hazardous waste generated is 800 kg, the facility is classified as a Small Quantity Generator. This classification dictates specific requirements for storage, record-keeping, and emergency preparedness, which are less stringent than those for LQGs but more stringent than for VSQGs. Understanding these generator categories is fundamental to complying with Florida’s hazardous waste regulations.

The question asks about the appropriate regulatory classification for a specific waste stream generated by a Florida-based pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The waste consists of spent solvents, primarily methanol and ethanol, used in the purification of active pharmaceutical ingredients. These solvents, when discarded, exhibit the characteristic of ignitability due to their low flash point, a key criterion for hazardous waste classification under both federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and Florida’s Hazardous Waste Management regulations (Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code). Specifically, ignitable hazardous wastes are defined as liquids that have a flash point less than 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). Methanol has a flash point of approximately 11 degrees Celsius, and ethanol has a flash point of approximately 13 degrees Celsius, both well below the threshold. Therefore, this waste stream would be classified as an ignitable hazardous waste. Florida’s regulations mirror federal RCRA classifications, meaning wastes meeting the criteria for ignitability are regulated as hazardous. The facility must manage this waste according to the stringent requirements for hazardous waste generators, including proper storage, labeling, manifesting, and disposal at a permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF). Failure to do so would constitute a violation of Florida’s Hazardous Waste Management Act.

The Florida Hazardous Waste Act, Chapter 403, Florida Statutes, and its corresponding administrative rules under Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code, establish the framework for managing hazardous waste within the state. Specifically, the definition of a “hazardous waste” is critical for determining regulatory applicability. According to 62-730.020(1), Florida Administrative Code, a waste is considered hazardous if it is specifically listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart D, or if it exhibits one or more of the characteristics of hazardous waste as defined in 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart C. These characteristics include ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), outlined in 40 CFR Part 261, Appendix C. If a waste fails the TCLP for any of the specified contaminants at or above the regulatory levels, it is classified as a hazardous waste. Therefore, a waste generated by a facility in Florida that contains lead at a concentration of 5.5 mg/L, as determined by a TCLP analysis, would be classified as hazardous due to exceeding the regulatory limit for lead, which is 5.0 mg/L. This classification triggers all applicable requirements under Florida’s hazardous waste program, including permitting, manifesting, and management standards.

The question asks about the primary responsibility for ensuring that hazardous waste is managed in accordance with Florida’s stringent regulations, specifically concerning the Generator Identification Number (GIN). In Florida, under the framework established by the Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and aligned with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the entity that generates hazardous waste is fundamentally responsible for its proper management from cradle to grave. This responsibility includes obtaining a GIN if required, accurately classifying the waste, ensuring proper storage, labeling, and manifesting for transportation, and ultimately ensuring its treatment, storage, or disposal at a permitted facility. While transporters and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) have their own regulatory obligations, the initial generator bears the overarching legal and environmental accountability for the waste they produce. The GIN is a key identifier that links the generator to their hazardous waste activities and is a direct indicator of their regulatory status and responsibilities. Therefore, the generator’s compliance with obtaining and utilizing this number is paramount to demonstrating adherence to Florida’s hazardous waste management program. The FDEP oversees and enforces these regulations, but the direct operational responsibility for compliance with specific requirements like obtaining a GIN rests with the generator.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste from its generation to its ultimate disposal. In Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) implements RCRA regulations through Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code. A key aspect of this framework is the identification and management of hazardous waste. Waste is considered hazardous if it exhibits certain characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, toxicity) or if it is specifically listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the FDEP. For a generator to determine if their waste is hazardous, they must first check if it is a listed waste. If not listed, they must then evaluate it against the characteristic criteria. Florida’s regulations mirror federal definitions for these characteristics. For example, ignitability is defined by flashpoint, corrosivity by pH, reactivity by instability, and toxicity by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). The TCLP is a regulatory test used to determine if a solid waste is hazardous due to its toxicity. It simulates the leaching that occurs when waste is disposed of in a landfill. If the concentration of any of the specified contaminants in the leachate exceeds regulatory levels, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. Florida’s specific regulatory levels for TCLP contaminants are found within Chapter 62-730, F.A.C., which aligns with federal TCLP limits. Therefore, understanding the process of waste characterization, including the application of the TCLP for toxicity, is fundamental to compliance with Florida hazardous waste law.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Generators of hazardous waste are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) are defined as those who generate between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or between 1 and 100 kilograms of acute hazardous waste per month. Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) generate 1,000 kilograms or more of hazardous waste per month, or more than 100 kilograms of acute hazardous waste per month. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) generate 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month. The regulatory requirements, including storage limits, personnel training, and contingency planning, vary significantly depending on the generator status. For instance, LQGs have more stringent requirements than SQGs and VSQGs. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for compliance. A facility that generates 1,100 kilograms of hazardous waste in a calendar month, and also 50 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in the same month, would be classified as a Large Quantity Generator because the threshold for hazardous waste generation (1,000 kg) has been met, irrespective of the acute hazardous waste quantity, as per Florida’s hazardous waste regulations. The acute hazardous waste quantity, while important for specific handling requirements, does not alter the primary classification if the general hazardous waste threshold is surpassed.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the primary federal law governing the management of hazardous waste in the United States. Florida, as a state authorized to implement RCRA, has adopted regulations that are largely consistent with federal requirements but may also include stricter or more specific provisions. The identification and listing of hazardous wastes are crucial first steps in this regulatory framework. Florida Administrative Code (FAC) Chapter 62-730 outlines the state’s hazardous waste management program. This chapter references the federal definitions and lists found in Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 261. Specifically, FAC 62-730.020 incorporates by reference the federal criteria for identifying hazardous waste, including characteristic wastes (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, toxicity) and listed wastes (F, K, P, and U lists). A waste is considered hazardous if it exhibits any of these characteristics or is specifically listed. The generator of the waste is responsible for making this hazardous waste determination. This determination involves understanding the waste’s composition and properties, and comparing them against the criteria established in the regulations. For example, a waste that is ignitable, as defined by having a flash point below 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), would be classified as hazardous due to its ignitability characteristic. Similarly, a waste containing specific listed constituents above certain thresholds would be classified as a listed hazardous waste. The regulatory burden of demonstrating that a waste is not hazardous rests with the generator, requiring thorough analysis and documentation.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is primarily based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Generators of hazardous waste are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. A Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) generates 100 kilograms (kg) or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram (kg) or less of acutely hazardous waste per month. A Small Quantity Generator (SQG) generates more than 100 kg but less than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste per month. A Large Quantity Generator (LQG) generates 1,000 kg or more of hazardous waste per month. The regulatory requirements, including storage limits, personnel training, emergency preparedness, and record-keeping, become progressively more stringent with each classification. For instance, SQGs have fewer stringent requirements than LQGs regarding personnel training and emergency plans, while VSQGs have the least stringent requirements. Understanding these quantity-based distinctions is fundamental to compliance within Florida’s hazardous waste regulatory framework.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) oversees hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is largely based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) at the federal level. A key aspect of hazardous waste regulation involves the management of universal waste, a streamlined category for certain common hazardous wastes that are generated in large quantities and are relatively easy to manage. Universal waste regulations aim to reduce the burden on handlers while still ensuring environmental protection. In Florida, universal wastes include pesticides, batteries, mercury-containing equipment, and lamps. Generators who accumulate universal waste must comply with specific storage time limits and management standards. For example, a large quantity handler of universal waste lamps in Florida cannot accumulate these wastes for more than one year from the date they become a universal waste. This one-year limit is a critical compliance point. If a handler exceeds this limit, the waste is no longer considered universal waste and must be managed as a characteristic or listed hazardous waste, triggering more stringent regulatory requirements, including potentially obtaining a hazardous waste permit and adhering to stricter accumulation timeframes and disposal methods. The transition from universal waste to hazardous waste status due to exceeding the accumulation limit is a significant compliance event that necessitates immediate reclassification and management according to the full hazardous waste regulations.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) oversees hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which implements the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) within the state. Facilities that generate hazardous waste are subject to specific requirements based on their generation rate. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) are defined by their monthly generation of hazardous waste. Specifically, an SQG is a generator who generates more than 100 kilograms (kg) but less than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste in a calendar month, or more than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month. Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) generate 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 referred to as Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) under federal reauthorization, generate 100 kg or less of hazardous waste per month and less than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. The question asks about a facility that generates 150 kg of hazardous waste and 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month. Since the hazardous waste generation (150 kg) exceeds the 100 kg threshold for VSQGs but is less than the 1,000 kg threshold for LQGs, and the acute hazardous waste generation (0.5 kg) is below the 1 kg threshold for acute hazardous waste generators, the facility falls into the Small Quantity Generator category. This classification dictates specific storage limits, personnel training requirements, contingency planning, and reporting obligations under Florida’s hazardous waste regulations. Understanding these thresholds is critical for compliance and avoiding penalties.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) oversees hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is largely based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A crucial aspect of this regulation is the management of hazardous waste by conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs). In Florida, a CESQG is defined as a generator who produces no more than 100 kilograms (kg) of hazardous waste per month, and no more than 1 kilogram (kg) of acutely hazardous waste per month. Furthermore, a CESQG cannot accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms (1 metric ton) of hazardous waste at any given time. The question asks about the maximum quantity of hazardous waste a CESQG can accumulate on-site without losing its CESQG status in Florida. Based on the FDEP regulations, this limit is 1,000 kilograms. Any accumulation exceeding this threshold would necessitate reclassification to a higher generator status, such as a small quantity generator (SQG) or a large quantity generator (LQG), with corresponding stricter management and reporting requirements. Understanding these accumulation limits is vital for businesses in Florida to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Florida’s Hazardous Waste Management Act, Chapter 403, Florida Statutes, and its corresponding administrative rules in Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code, establish a comprehensive framework for managing hazardous waste. A key aspect of this framework is the classification of waste, which determines the regulatory requirements that apply. Waste is generally classified as hazardous if it exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) or if it is specifically listed as hazardous by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). The toxicity characteristic is determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), as outlined in 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart C, which Florida has adopted. If a waste leaches specific contaminants above regulatory thresholds during the TCLP test, it is considered a toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste sample, when subjected to the TCLP, yields a leachate concentration of lead exceeding the regulatory limit of 5.0 mg/L, that waste would be classified as hazardous due to the toxicity characteristic for lead. This classification triggers stringent requirements for storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal, as well as manifest tracking and record-keeping. The generator of the waste is responsible for making the hazardous waste determination.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which implements the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) within the state. A key aspect of this regulation is the definition and management of hazardous waste. Specifically, the FDEP distinguishes between characteristic hazardous wastes and listed hazardous wastes. Characteristic wastes are those exhibiting ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity as defined by specific criteria. Listed wastes are those specifically identified by the FDEP as hazardous due to their origin or composition, such as wastes from specific industrial processes or discarded commercial chemical products. For a waste to be considered hazardous in Florida, it must meet the definition of hazardous waste under either the characteristic or listed waste categories. The scenario describes a waste stream generated by a manufacturing process involving solvents and metal plating. Solvents often exhibit ignitability, and metal plating processes can generate wastes that are corrosive or toxic due to heavy metal content. If the waste exhibits any of the four characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity) as defined in 40 CFR Part 261 Subpart C, or if it is a listed hazardous waste under 40 CFR Part 261 Subpart D and its Florida-specific counterparts, it is regulated as hazardous waste. The question probes the fundamental regulatory trigger for hazardous waste classification in Florida, which is whether the waste meets the established criteria for hazardous waste as defined by state and federal regulations adopted by Florida. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of the waste’s properties and origin against these definitions.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which is primarily based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) as implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Generators of hazardous waste are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. These categories are Small Quantity Generators (SQGs), Large Quantity Generators (LQGs), and Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs). The specific requirements for accumulation time, storage, personnel training, contingency planning, and record-keeping vary significantly among these categories. For instance, VSQGs have the least stringent requirements, typically allowed to accumulate up to 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) of hazardous waste for up to 180 days or any amount of acute hazardous waste for up to 180 days. SQGs can accumulate up to 6,000 kilograms (13,200 pounds) of hazardous waste for up to 180 days and must meet certain personnel training and contingency plan requirements. LQGs, generating more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, face the most rigorous requirements, including a 90-day accumulation limit and comprehensive emergency preparedness and prevention measures. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for compliance and for correctly identifying the regulatory obligations of a facility. The question asks about the maximum accumulation time for a generator who produces 1,200 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, which clearly places them in the Large Quantity Generator category, as this exceeds the 1,000 kg threshold for SQGs. Therefore, the maximum accumulation time is 90 days.

The Florida Hazardous Waste Act, Chapter 403, Florida Statutes, and its corresponding administrative code, Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code, govern the management of hazardous waste within the state. A critical aspect of this regulation involves the identification and management of hazardous waste. Specifically, the definition of a hazardous waste generator is crucial for determining regulatory obligations. Under Florida law, a generator is any person who produces a hazardous waste or, if the waste is not sold, the owner or operator of the facility where the waste is produced. This definition is broad and encompasses entities that might not initially consider themselves “generators” in the common sense. For instance, a facility that merely stores hazardous waste for a period, even if it doesn’t originate the waste, can be considered a generator if it takes possession and control of it, thereby assuming responsibility for its management. The key determinant is the act of producing or possessing hazardous waste in a manner that triggers regulatory oversight. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) enforces these regulations to protect public health and the environment from the risks associated with hazardous waste. Understanding who qualifies as a generator is the first step in ensuring compliance with manifest requirements, storage limitations, and disposal protocols. The specific quantity of waste generated does not alter the definition of a generator, but rather dictates the specific subcategory of generator status (e.g., large quantity, small quantity) which then dictates the stringency of applicable requirements.

The question concerns the regulatory framework governing hazardous waste management in Florida, specifically focusing on the requirements for a facility that generates hazardous waste. Florida’s hazardous waste regulations are primarily derived from the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and are further detailed in the Florida Administrative Code (FAC), particularly Chapter 62-730. This chapter outlines generator status, which is determined by the quantity of hazardous waste generated per month. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) generate 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram or less of acutely 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. The scenario describes a facility generating 150 kilograms of hazardous waste per month. This quantity falls within the threshold for a Small Quantity Generator (SQG) in Florida, as it is more than 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms. Therefore, the facility must comply with the regulations applicable to SQGs, which include requirements for obtaining an EPA identification number, managing waste in compliant containers, adhering to accumulation time limits, and manifesting shipments. The scenario does not indicate the generation of acutely hazardous waste, which would trigger different thresholds. The core concept being tested is the correct classification of a hazardous waste generator based on monthly generation quantities under Florida’s specific regulatory scheme.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) oversees hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A key aspect of hazardous waste management is the proper classification and tracking of hazardous waste from generation to final disposal. Generators are responsible for determining if their waste is hazardous. If a waste is not listed as hazardous by the EPA or FDEP, the generator must test it or use process knowledge to determine if it exhibits any of the four hazardous characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or 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 contains any of the specified contaminants at or above regulatory levels, the waste is classified as hazardous. For example, if a waste leachate sample tested via TCLP shows a concentration of lead at 8 mg/L, this would exceed the regulatory limit of 5 mg/L for the toxicity characteristic for lead, thus classifying the waste as hazardous under the toxicity characteristic. This classification then dictates the subsequent management requirements, including manifesting, storage, transportation, and disposal at a permitted facility. The generator’s responsibility to accurately characterize their waste is fundamental to ensuring compliance with Florida’s hazardous waste regulations and protecting public health and the environment. This includes understanding the specific testing protocols and regulatory thresholds established by both federal and state authorities.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). A key aspect of this regulation involves the proper identification and management of hazardous waste. When a generator determines that a solid waste is not hazardous, they must maintain records of their basis for this determination. This record-keeping requirement is crucial for demonstrating compliance and ensuring that waste is managed appropriately. The regulations specify what constitutes a hazardous waste, including listed wastes and characteristic wastes (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity). If a waste exhibits any of these characteristics or is listed, it must be managed as hazardous. If a generator believes a waste is non-hazardous, they must document why. This documentation typically includes analytical test results, process knowledge, or other reliable information that clearly demonstrates the absence of hazardous characteristics or listing criteria. The purpose of this record is to provide evidence to regulatory agencies during inspections or audits that the generator has correctly classified their waste. Without this documented basis, a waste that is actually hazardous could be mismanaged, leading to environmental contamination and legal penalties. The FDEP’s oversight ensures that generators are diligent in their waste characterization efforts.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which implements the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in Florida. Facilities that generate, store, treat, or dispose of hazardous waste are subject to specific requirements. A conditionally exempt small quantity generator (CESQG) is a specific category of hazardous waste generator defined by the amount of hazardous waste they produce per month. Under federal RCRA regulations, and adopted by Florida, a CESQG generates 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or 1 kilogram or less of acutely hazardous waste per month, and does not accumulate more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. These generators have reduced regulatory burdens compared to larger quantity generators. The key distinction lies in the monthly generation rate and the total accumulation limit. Therefore, a facility generating 90 kg of hazardous waste and 0.5 kg of acutely hazardous waste in a month, and not exceeding 1,000 kg total accumulation, would qualify as a CESQG.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which is largely based on the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Generators of hazardous waste are classified based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) are defined as those who generate at least 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kilogram of acute 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. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) generate 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kilogram of acute hazardous waste per month. The question asks about a facility that generates 500 kilograms of hazardous waste and 2 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month. For the hazardous waste classification, 500 kilograms falls into the SQG category. However, the generation of 2 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month classifies the facility as an LQG, regardless of the quantity of non-acute hazardous waste. This is because the threshold for acute hazardous waste is much lower and takes precedence in determining the generator status. Therefore, the facility is an LQG.

The question probes the understanding of generator status determination under Florida’s hazardous waste regulations, specifically focusing on the accumulation time limits for different generator categories. Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) Chapter 62-730 outlines these requirements. A very small quantity generator (VSQG) in Florida can accumulate hazardous waste on-site for up to 180 days without a permit, provided they meet certain conditions, including not exceeding the quantity limits for VSQGs. A small quantity generator (SQG) can accumulate hazardous waste for up to 180 days (or 270 days if the waste is shipped over 200 miles) without a permit, again subject to quantity limits and other conditions. Large quantity generators (LQGs) have a 90-day accumulation limit. The scenario describes a facility that generates 150 kg of hazardous waste in a month, which places it in the SQG category in Florida (VSQGs generate 100 kg or less per month; LQGs generate 1,000 kg or more per month). The facility has accumulated waste for 190 days. Since the facility is an SQG, the maximum allowed accumulation time without a permit is 180 days, or 270 days if shipped over 200 miles. As the accumulation period of 190 days exceeds the standard 180-day limit for an SQG, the facility would be in violation of the accumulation time requirements. Therefore, the facility has exceeded the permissible hazardous waste accumulation period for its generator status.

Florida’s hazardous waste regulations, primarily governed by Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which implements the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) within the state, establish specific requirements for the management of hazardous waste. For a generator to be classified as a small quantity generator (SQG), they must meet certain accumulation limits. Specifically, an SQG is a generator who generates less than 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) of hazardous waste in a calendar month and does not generate more than 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month, nor accumulates more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. If a generator exceeds these limits at any point during a month, they are subject to the regulations for large quantity generators for that entire month. The key is that the generator’s status is determined by their monthly generation and accumulation. Therefore, if a facility generates 950 kg of hazardous waste and 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month, and accumulates no more than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste at any time, they remain an SQG. The scenario describes a facility that generates 950 kg of hazardous waste and 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month. This falls within the SQG thresholds of less than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste and less than 1 kg of acute hazardous waste per month. Furthermore, the scenario states they do not accumulate more than 1,000 kg at any time. This means the facility is correctly classified as a small quantity generator under Florida’s hazardous waste regulations.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the primary federal law governing the disposal of solid and hazardous waste in the United States. Florida, like other states, has been delegated authority by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement and enforce its own hazardous waste program, which must be at least as stringent as the federal program. Under RCRA, hazardous waste generators are categorized based on the quantity of hazardous waste they produce per month. These categories are Large Quantity Generators (LQGs), Small Quantity Generators (SQGs), and Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs). The specific regulatory requirements for storage, manifest tracking, recordkeeping, and emergency preparedness vary significantly among these categories. For instance, LQGs face the most stringent requirements, including limits on accumulation time and quantity, detailed contingency plans, and more extensive reporting. SQGs have less stringent requirements, with higher accumulation limits and less complex emergency planning. VSQGs have the least stringent requirements, often being exempt from many of the manifest and storage regulations applicable to SQGs and LQGs, provided they meet certain criteria for waste characterization and disposal. The question probes the understanding of these tiered generator statuses and their associated regulatory burdens, specifically focusing on the distinction in accumulation time limits. Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) Chapter 62-730, which implements RCRA in Florida, mirrors these federal distinctions. An LQG in Florida, as per 40 CFR Part 262, Subpart L (and adopted by reference in F.A.C. 62-730.160), can accumulate hazardous waste on-site for up to 90 days in tanks or containers. An SQG, as per 40 CFR Part 262, Subpart C (and adopted by reference in F.A.C. 62-730.170), can accumulate hazardous waste for up to 180 days, or 270 days if the waste is shipped to a permitted facility located more than 200 miles away. A VSQG, as per 40 CFR Part 262, Subpart P (and adopted by reference in F.A.C. 62-730.180), can accumulate up to 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste and is generally exempt from accumulation time limits as long as they do not exceed this quantity and meet other specific conditions for disposal. Therefore, a facility that generates 1,200 kilograms of hazardous waste in a calendar month would exceed the threshold for a VSQG and would be classified as an SQG, subject to the 180-day (or 270-day) accumulation limit. The question asks about the maximum accumulation time for a facility that generates 1,200 kg of hazardous waste in a calendar month, which unequivocally places it in the SQG category. The maximum accumulation time for an SQG in Florida, aligning with federal RCRA regulations, is 180 days, or 270 days if the destination facility is more than 200 miles away. The question implicitly asks for the standard accumulation time without specifying the distance to the disposal facility, making the 180-day limit the most direct answer for an SQG.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) establishes a framework for managing hazardous waste from “cradle to grave.” In Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) implements and enforces RCRA regulations, often incorporating state-specific requirements that may be more stringent than federal standards. Understanding the definition of hazardous waste is fundamental. A solid waste is classified as hazardous if it exhibits one or more characteristics of hazardous waste: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, or if it is listed as hazardous waste by the EPA or the state. The toxicity characteristic is determined through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). If the leachate from a solid waste contains any of the contaminants listed in 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart C, at or above the specified regulatory levels, the waste is considered toxic hazardous waste. For instance, if a waste sample, when subjected to TCLP, yields a leachate concentration of lead exceeding the regulatory limit of 5.0 mg/L, that waste would be classified as hazardous due to toxicity. This classification dictates the subsequent management requirements, including storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal, all of which are subject to strict FDEP oversight. The management of hazardous waste in Florida is governed by Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code, which mirrors and often expands upon federal RCRA regulations. This includes requirements for hazardous waste generator status, manifest system usage, and land disposal restrictions.

The question pertains to the regulatory framework governing hazardous waste management in Florida, specifically focusing on the criteria for determining if a waste is a hazardous waste under Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-730. This chapter aligns with federal regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) but may have state-specific nuances. A waste is considered hazardous if it is specifically listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), 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) test, which simulates landfill conditions. If the leachate from a waste sample contains any of the specified contaminants at concentrations equal to or greater than the regulatory levels, the waste is classified as toxic hazardous waste. For example, if a waste leaches lead at a concentration of 6 mg/L, and the regulatory limit for lead under the toxicity characteristic is 5 mg/L, then the waste exhibits the toxicity characteristic and is thus a hazardous waste. The key here is not the total concentration of the substance in the waste, but its potential to leach into groundwater. Therefore, understanding the characteristics and the testing methodologies, such as TCLP, is crucial for proper hazardous waste classification in Florida.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulates hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which is primarily based on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A generator is classified based on the amount of hazardous waste they produce per month. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) are those that generate between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month, or less than 1 kilogram of acute 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. Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) generate 100 kilograms or less of hazardous waste per month. The regulatory requirements, including storage limits, personnel training, and emergency preparedness, vary significantly based on this classification. For instance, LQGs have the most stringent requirements. Understanding these thresholds is critical for compliance, as misclassification can lead to significant penalties and environmental risks. The question scenario involves a facility that generates 950 kg of hazardous waste and 0.5 kg of acute hazardous waste in a month. Based on these figures, the facility would be classified as a Small Quantity Generator because its non-acute hazardous waste generation (950 kg) falls within the 100-1,000 kg range, and its acute hazardous waste generation (0.5 kg) is below the 1 kg threshold for LQG status.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) oversees hazardous waste management under Chapter 62-730 of the Florida Administrative Code, which implements the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in Florida. A hazardous waste generator’s status is determined by the quantity of hazardous waste produced per calendar 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, and accumulate no more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) generate more than 100 kilograms but less than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month and accumulate no more than 6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. 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, or accumulate more than 6,000 kilograms of hazardous waste at any time. In this scenario, the pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Miami-Dade County generates 850 kilograms of hazardous waste and 0.5 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in June, and 1100 kilograms of hazardous waste and 0.2 kilograms of acute hazardous waste in July. For June, the facility is below the 1,000 kg threshold for total hazardous waste and below the 1 kg threshold for acute hazardous waste. Therefore, in June, the facility is classified as a Small Quantity Generator. For July, the facility generates 1100 kilograms of hazardous waste, exceeding the 1,000 kg threshold for total hazardous waste, and also generates 0.2 kilograms of acute hazardous waste, which is below the 1 kg threshold for acute hazardous waste. However, the generation of 1100 kg of hazardous waste in July alone, regardless of the acute hazardous waste quantity, elevates the facility’s status to that of a Large Quantity Generator for that month, as it meets the criteria of generating 1,000 kg or more of hazardous waste. The generator status is determined on a monthly basis.

The scenario describes a facility generating hazardous waste in Florida. The question asks about the appropriate notification requirements under Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) Chapter 62-730, which governs hazardous waste management. Specifically, it pertains to a generator who intends to operate a hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF). According to F.A.C. 62-730.160(1), any person who proposes to own or operate a hazardous waste TSDF must submit a permit application to the department and receive a permit before commencing operations. Furthermore, F.A.C. 62-730.160(2) states that a person who intends to treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste shall notify the department of such intent at least ninety days before commencing such activities. This notification must be submitted on a form provided by the department. The question focuses on the *initial* notification requirement for a generator who *intends* to operate a TSDF, not the ongoing management of waste generated at their existing facility. Therefore, the correct action is to submit the notification of intent to operate a TSDF to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).