Stay Compliant: Avoid Hefty Hazardous Waste Penalties

Failure to comply with hazardous waste regulations can result in severe penalties enforced at both federal and state levels. Below are key potential penalties for violations that apply nationwide under federal regulations:

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can impose civil penalties for violations of hazardous waste regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
• As of 2023, the maximum civil penalty is $87,855 per day, per violation[7].

• For knowing violations, criminal penalties can include fines up to $50,000 per day of violation and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years[8].
• Penalties can double for subsequent violations.
• In cases of knowing endangerment, penalties can be up to $250,000 or $1,000,000 for organizations and up to 15 years imprisonment[8].

• Improper labeling of hazardous waste
• Improper disposal
• Lack of emergency planning
• Open containers
• Lack of employee training[5]

• While the EPA sets federal standards, many states have their own environmental agencies that enforce hazardous waste regulations and may impose additional penalties[1].

• Penalties are often determined based on the potential harm and the extent of deviation from hazardous waste management requirements[4].

• Penalties can accrue on a daily basis for continuing violations[4]. 

It's important to note that while these general principles apply across states due to federal regulations, specific penalty amounts and enforcement practices may vary by state and locality. Companies dealing with hazardous waste should be familiar with both federal and state-specific regulations to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Helpful links: 

Stellar DROSS Reycycling Service: How it works.
DROSS Recycling: Get a Quote

Citations:
[1] https://www.hwhenvironmental.com/four-common-epa-violations-concerning-handling-waste-materials/
[2] https://ehs.cornell.edu/manuals/hazardous-waste-manual/chapter-2-responsibilities/22-penalties
[3] https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/doclink/waext/wa850.pdf
[4] https://www.cleanearthinc.com/news/california-nearly-triples-penalties-waste-violations
[5] https://a-otc.com/most-common-hazardous-waste-violations/
[7] https://www.safetypartnersinc.com/2023-new-year-new-penalties-for-non-compliance/
[8] https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/criminal-provisions-resource-conservation-and-recovery-act-rcra