I’ve submitted my Waste Profile Form, when can I expect to get my permit?
Submission of a Waste Profile Form does not guarantee a permit for disposal. Every submission we receive is looked at on a case-by-case basis to ensure safe handling and disposal. Some can take a few days while others can take weeks to complete if more information is needed or an Iowa DNR Special Waste Authorization (SWA) is required. We strive to approach all waste inquiries in a manner that instills confidence in our waste handling and disposal practices.
Why can’t I just throw this in with the rest of my trash? It all goes to the same place!
Special Waste is handled and disposed of at our facility differently than normal waste. This is to ensure that facility staff, on-site patrons, and the surrounding environment are protected from unnecessary exposure to anything that could be harmful to their health and safety.
Why do you ask for so much information?
We seek to ensure that we are not accepting waste that is deemed “hazardous” by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). We also adhere strictly to the laws set out in the Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 109, which pertains directly to Special Waste. Without this information, we can’t have the necessary confidence in waste acceptance and disposal.
I sent in tests with my waste profile form, but you are asking for more tests. Why?
While we appreciate proactive waste testing, it is best to follow the guidance of a professional on what to test for when making waste determinations. We can give guidance on past testing for similar waste inquiries or provide Iowa DNR resources on testing for common waste. We recommend working with a company that specializes in waste determinations and can be a valuable resource on recommended testing.
What sort of testing is required?
Testing can vary greatly depending on the waste in question.
The most common tests are Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) for Metals, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) reported in mg/L. This does not apply to all waste, as there are many other forms of analytics received as testing varies from waste-to-waste.
We also commonly require pH testing to determine if a waste meets regulatory requirements for corrosivity, flashpoint testing to determine ignitability, and paint filter tests to determine if a waste requires solidification
Wastes that exhibit reactivity, meaning they react violently with other substances like water, is unstable, or undergoes violent changes without detonating are also not accepted for disposal.
Why do I need to do testing if I have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the waste I want to dispose of?
An SDS is certainly valuable information, as more information is always helpful in determining acceptance and disposal criteria. However, it is important that we know about the waste as it was generated, not just individual components of the waste. SDS also do not have to list any chemicals under 1%, which is 10,000 ppm and could exceed regulatory limits for disposal.