Hazardous Waste Generators

The Oakland Fire Department implements the Hazardous Waste Inspection Program throughout the City of Oakland. The purpose of this program is to ensure that all hazardous wastes generated by Oakland businesses are properly handled, recycled, treated, stored and disposed. Additional information and support is available at the Department of Toxic Substances Control,  Alameda Household Hazardous Waste, or by calling the Oakland CUPA at (510) 238-3927. 

Inspectors in this program inspect facilities that generate hazardous waste, evaluate hazardous waste generating industries, investigate reports of illegal hazardous waste disposal, and respond to emergency spills of hazardous chemicals. Specialists also participate in public education programs designed to inform industries and residents about the laws and regulations relating to safe disposal of hazardous waste.

NOTE: NEW UNIVERSAL WASTE REQUIREMENTS

What is Hazardous Waste?

Hazardous wastes may be liquid, solid or sludge. The wastes may be the by-products of manufacturing processes or simply unwanted commercial products. If the waste has any of these four characteristics, then it is considered to be hazardous:

• Ignitability

• Reactivity

• Corrosivity

• Toxicity

More information on specific hazardous wastes can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.5 and the California Code of Regulations Title 22 or by contacting a Specialist with the Oakland CUPA.

Treatment of Hazardous Waste

Treatment means any method, technique or process which changes the physical, chemical or biological character or composition of a hazardous waste, or removes or reduces its harmful properties or characteristics. Businesses planning to treat hazardous waste on-site must notify the CUPA by completing a notification form and obtaining authorization from the CUPA, see tiered permitting for more information. 

Hazardous Waste Generator Responsibilities

• Clearly label each container of hazardous waste with:

1. The words "Hazardous Waste"

2. Contents of the container

3. Name and address of the generator

4. Hazardous properties of the waste

5. Physical state (e.g., liquid, solid, gas)

6. Starting date for waste accumulation

• Store liquids in enclosed or covered areas, in clean sealed containers, with secondary containment.

• Use only authorized hazardous waste management facilities and transports and keep records (manifests) of proper disposal for at least 3 years.

• Maintain proper emergency equipment

• Maintain a current contingency plan

• Provide training to employees

• Limit on-site storage to no more than 90 days or as specified in hazardous waste regulations

• Whenever possible, eliminate, reduce and recycle wastes

• Select appropriate treatment methods for hazardous wastes

• Keep accurate records

• Prepare a source reduction plan or checklist

You can contact the Hazardous Waste Inspection Program at (510) 238-3927 for more information regarding hazardous waste generator responsibilities, codes, and regulations.