Satellite Accumulation Areas
Overview and Applicability
The hazardous waste regulations allow small quantity and large quantity generators to use satellite accumulation areas to accumulate up to 55 gallons of hazardous wastes or 1 quart of acutely hazardous waste. These areas provide more flexibility and have less stringent management requirements than "central" accumulation areas, and are used by the majority of colleges and universities to accumulate hazardous wastes generated in individual laboratories or rooms on campus.
Requirements
A generator accumulating hazardous waste in a satellite accumulation area must meet the following requirements:
- the area must be at or near the process that is generating the waste (e.g. the particular lab procedure.)
- the area must be under the control of the person who is conducting or operating the process.
- all containers of hazardous wastes in satellite accumulation areas must be properly labeled or marked with the contents
- containers must be kept closed unless adding or removing wastes, must be compatible with the contents, and must be in good condition
- no more than 1 quart of acutely hazardous waste (P-listed) can be accumulated in the area at one time
- other hazardous wastes in excess of 55 gallons must be dated and moved to a central accumulation area within 72 hours.
While weekly inspections of satellite accumulation areas is not required, some system for ensuring the above requirements are met is strongly recommended.
Regulations
40 CFR Part 262.34(c) - Accumulation Time
Other Resources
FAQs about Satellite Accumulation Areas
Last updated: July 7, 2005