Satellite Accumulation Area Surveys
Both large and small quantity generators of hazardous waste are required to conduct weekly surveys of their waste accumulation areas, typically referred to as a satellite accumulation area (SAA), central accumulation area (CAA), or a 90-day storage area. These surveys are to be filled out completely and send to EHS. The Environmental Compliance team surveys campus laboratories periodically throughout the year to ensure that all hazardous waste areas meet regulatory standards.
Common violations that occur in SAAs:
- Improper labeling and failure to label the container with the words "hazardous waste" or another description of the contents
- Failure to keep the container closed between uses
- Failure to use secondary containment when required
- Not maintaining mixed chemical logs
- Failure to conduct monthly SAA surveys and provide documentation to EHS
- Failure to post proper signage on waste storage areas
Source Reduction and Reuse
The most desirable method of waste minimization is source reduction, which lowers the impact of chemical waste on the environment. This activity reduces or eliminates the generation of chemical waste at the source.
Tips to reduce the use of chemicals:
- Substitute hazardous materials with less toxic or non-hazardous compounds, such as using non-mercury alternatives for thermometers, gas bubblers, and other devices
- Micro-scale analytical techniques and experimentation should be used where practicable
- Purchase only in quantities necessary for immediate use. Large portions of the hazardous waste generated at OSU are unused chemicals in their original containers
- Designate a single person to be responsible for purchasing chemicals
- Maintain current chemical inventories and review inventories before purchasing additional chemicals
- Establish a departmental redistribution system for usable chemicals
- Purchase compressed gas cylinders or lecture bottles only from manufacturers that will accept the empty cylinders back. Disposal costs of a lecture bottle can exceed $1,000
Documents
Satellite Accumulation Containers