Available Now: 2023 Schedule of Hazmat & RCRA Training
Search

New EPA Hazardous Waste Import/Export Regulations Finalized

Posted on 10/28/2016 by Roger Marks

On October 28, 2016, US EPA announced it will soon publish a Final Rule to revise the US hazardous waste import and export requirements. 

Under the Final Rule, EPA’s requirements for transboundary hazardous waste shipments will be more consistent with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) import-export rules. Because nearly all import-export shipments of hazardous waste in and out of the US originate or are destined for other OECD nations, conforming the RCRA import-export rules at 40 CFR 262, Subpart H to OECD requirements is a logical step from EPA’s point of view.

Originally proposed about one year ago, the Final Rule will also:
  • Require shippers to electronically submit export- and import-related documents, like export notices and export annual reports, to EPA.
  • Require electronic validation of consent in the US Customs and Border Protection’s Automated Export System (AES) for export shipments subject to RCRA export consent requirements. 

The updated import/export rules will apply to all transboundary hazardous waste shipments, including RCRA hazardous wastes that may be managed under alternative standards—universal waste sent for recycling or disposal, spent lead-acid batteries (SLABs), recyclable materials shipped for precious metals recovery, and hazardous waste samples bigger than 25 kg shipped for characterization or treatability studies. 

The revisions in the Final Rule will not affect existing bilateral agreements between the US and Canada, the US and Mexico, or the import-only bilateral agreements between the US and Malaysia, Costa Rica, and the Philippines.  

Who Will the New Hazardous Waste Import/Export Rules Affect?

Hazardous waste import and export requirementsThe new Final Rule will primarliy affect four groups:
  1. Persons who export or import hazardous waste for recycling or disposal,
  2. Recycling and disposal facilities who receive hazardous waste imports,
  3. Persons who arrange for the export of conditionally excluded Cathode Ray Tues (CRTs) for recycling, and
  4. Persons who transport any of the export/import shipments described above.
The Final Rule will be effective December 31, 2016. A pre-publication copy is available at EPA’s website, here.

Next Live RCRA Refresher Training: November 15!

Join us for the live, expert-led RCRA Refresher Webinar on November 15. Cross annual hazardous waste training off of your list and take away resources to help simplify your RCRA hazardous waste job responsibilities. Plus, get a full year of Lion Membership for fast answers to your compliance questions, exclusive content, and online access to critical RCRA resources and regulation updates. 

Tags: EPA, hazardous waste, new rules, RCRA

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The instructor was very engaging and helped less experienced people understand the concepts.

Steve Gall

Safety Leader

The instructor was excellent. They knew all of the material without having to read from a notepad or computer.

Gary Hartzell

Warehouse Supervisor

Lion provided an excellent introduction to environmental regulations, making the transition to a new career as an EHS specialist less daunting of a task. Drinking from a fire hose when the flow of water is lessened, is much more enjoyable!

Stephanie Weathers

SHE Specialist

Lion's information is very thorough and accurate. Presenter was very good.

Melissa Little

Regulatory Manager

The workshop covered a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Lion is much better, more comprehensive than other training providers.

George Alva

Manufacturing Manager

I was able to present my scenario to the instructor and worked thru the regulations together. In the past, I attended another training firm's classes. Now, I have no intention of leaving Lion!

Diana Joyner

Senior Environmental Engineer

As always, Lion never disappoints

Paul Resley

Environmental Coordinator

Energetic/enthusiastic! Made training enjoyable, understandable and fun!

Amanda Walsh

Hazardous Waste Professional

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

No comparison. Lion has the best RCRA training ever!!

Matt Sabine

Environmental Specialist

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

The definitive 10-step guide for new hazardous materials shipping managers. Quickly reference the major considerations and details that impact hazmat shipping compliance.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.