Most businesses generate some type of dangerous waste, also known as hazardous waste, which can be harmful to public health and the environment. All businesses are responsible for managing their dangerous waste, and are subject to rules from the Washington State Department of Ecology and local government. Batteries, electronics, and lights/lamps are all examples of common dangerous wastes that are required to be properly handled.
Small quantity generators, or SQGs, are businesses or non-profits that produce less than 220 pounds of dangerous waste each month, accumulate less than 2,200 pounds at any time, and generate or accumulate less than 2.2 pounds of listed wastes that are extremely dangerous. Businesses producing higher levels of dangerous waste are medium or large quantity generators, and must follow Ecology regulations.
How do I know if I am a SQG?
SQGs are exempt from Ecology regulations when they follow these three basic steps to responsibly manage SQG dangerous waste.
Step 1: Determine if your business has dangerous waste
Dangerous waste is very common, and most businesses produce some. For a complete guide on identifying dangerous waste, a process known as waste designation, visit Ecology’s website.
Step 2: Handle and store dangerous waste safely
Dangerous waste needs to be properly stored and labeled before disposal. Improper handling and disposal can result in fines, safety violations, and expensive clean-up costs.
Don’t stockpile dangerous waste. Stockpiling dangerous waste can have serious consequences. Natural disasters can be devastating and cause spills at your facility. Furthermore, accumulating over 2,200 pounds of dangerous waste at any time will turn your business into a medium or large quantity generator, and you will no longer be exempt from state regulations. 2,200 pounds is about five 55-gallon drums filled with water. Don’t wait until it is too late; prevent spills and maintain your regulatory exemption status by disposing your SQG dangerous waste often and responsibly.
For a complete guide on dangerous waste storage, visit Ecology’s website.
Step 3: Recycle or dispose of SQG dangerous waste
The following companies provide dangerous waste disposal and recycling for SQGs in Clark County. Services and rules vary between waste companies. Contact representatives to find the best fit for your business’s dangerous waste. Call before you go.
Keep in mind that containers that once held a hazardous substance may need disposal as a dangerous waste. Learn more on the Ecology website.
Note: Clark County does not endorse any service providers listed. You are responsible for making sure your waste is handled and disposed of properly.
Universal waste, product stewardship, and private recyclers
Businesses have recycling options for specific dangerous wastes through product stewardship laws, universal waste rules, and private recyclers. Recycling these items is often more cost effective than disposing it as dangerous waste. See the below for extra recycling options for specific materials and products. Always call before you drive because these options are subject to change without notice, and additional rules or restrictions may apply. Fees apply unless otherwise stated.
Contact information
Solid Waste Operations
Solid Waste Education & Outreach
564.397.7352
Email
Free, non-regulatory assistance
Need more assistance managing your dangerous waste? Clark County and the City of Vancouver offer free, on-site technical assistance to local businesses. Learn more about our Pollution Prevention Assistance Program.