Hazardous Waste Satellite Accumulation

Hazardous Waste Satellite Accumulation Area Management

All Laboratories at Appalachian State University are managed as Satellite Accumulation Areas (SAA). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes an SAA as a location that is at or near a generation point of hazardous waste; and is under the control of the person(s) generating the hazardous waste. Satellite accumulation is intended for generators that produce small quantities of hazardous waste at numerous locations in one facility (think science labs, workshops, photo labs, etc.) SAAs provide a safer and more efficient method of handling and storing hazardous chemical waste for university employees.

Satellite Accumulation Areas have their own set of unique regulations coming under federal and state authority. Faculty and staff must make note of these requirements to ensure their work areas are operating in a safe and regulatory compliant manner. When storing and accumulating hazardous chemical waste, always observe the following regulations and university guidelines:

  • Train all personnel annually, who have the potential to handle or generate hazardous waste.
  • Store hazardous waste in chemically compatible containers. Liquid hazardous waste should be stored in a container with its original twist cap.
    • Do not store corrosives in mild steel containers, hydrofluoric acid in glass containers, etc.
    • Ensure all contents are chemically compatible and inspect for any pressure buildup that may occur inside the waste container.
  • Hazardous waste containers must remain closed at all times, unless adding or removing waste.
    • Use the container's original screw on cap.
    • Do not use Para film, aluminum foil, corks, etc. to close a hazardous waste container.
    • If pressure buildup is possible or experienced, contact EHS&EM for further guidance.
  • Store liquid hazardous waste containers in secondary containment capable of holding the entire volume.
  • Mark all containers conspicuously with the words "HAZARDOUS WASTE". Utilize App State labels.
  • Label the containers accurately with all constituents and their respective volume percentage. The sum of all the constituents should equal 100%. Utilize App State labels.
  • Utilize App State's Safety Data Sheet service for help in determining the classification, hazards and special storage conditions which apply to your chemical waste.
  • Ensure all chemical waste containers are in good condition, with no signs of rust, leaks, bulging, cracks or other condition lessening the structural integrity of the container.
  • Segregate waste containers according to hazard class, keeping incompatible waste separate from each other.
  • Designate a hazardous chemical waste storage area, separated from usable reagent chemicals.
  • Prepare for emergencies and chemical spills. Every SAA must have access to a fire extinguisher, spill kit, and communication device such as a telephone or suitable two-way radio.
  • Hazardous waste must be stored at or near the point of generation and under the control of the laboratory responsible for generation.
    • "At or near" generally means storing hazardous waste the same room in which it was generated.
    • Never transport hazardous waste to another lab, work area, building or site.
  • The amount of hazardous waste stored at a SAA must not exceed 55 gallons or one 1Kg solid/1 quart liquid of acute hazardous waste. Once these thresholds are reached, personnel have 3 days by law, to have it removed.
  • Never mix, or store in the same location, BIOHAZARDOUS or RADIOACTIVE wastes with hazardous chemical waste. Do not place hazardous chemical wastes in bags/containers labeled as biohazardous or radioactive, or marked with their respective symbols.
  • Always maintain adequate aisle space with a minimum of two feet in all waste accumulation areas.

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Have Questions?

Contact the Environmental Affairs Manager or 828-262-4008 for assistance with chemical and radioactive waste management issues.