Hazardous Waste Disposal in New Mexico
Professional Hazardous Waste Management Services Throughout New Mexico
Businesses and institutions across New Mexico generate hazardous waste that requires proper disposal to meet EPA and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) regulations. From national laboratories to oil and gas operations, proper hazardous waste management is essential for compliance, safety, and environmental protection. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides expert waste management services throughout the Land of Enchantment.
Call (800) 582-4833 for New Mexico hazardous waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Hazardous Waste Services Across New Mexico
We provide comprehensive hazardous waste disposal services to businesses, industries, institutions, and organizations throughout New Mexico. Our services cover all major cities and regions across the state, ensuring New Mexico businesses have access to reliable, compliant waste management solutions.
Major Service Areas in New Mexico
Albuquerque Metro Area: Comprehensive hazardous waste services for businesses, manufacturers, laboratories, healthcare facilities, and institutions in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and surrounding areas. Albuquerque is home to major research institutions including Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico, generating significant laboratory waste and research chemicals.
Santa Fe Region: Hazardous waste management for government facilities, laboratories, manufacturers, and commercial businesses in the state capital and surrounding areas. Santa Fe includes Los Alamos National Laboratory to the north, one of the premier research facilities in the nation.
Las Cruces Area: Waste disposal services for agricultural operations, New Mexico State University research facilities, manufacturers, and commercial businesses in southern New Mexico. The region has significant agricultural activities and White Sands Missile Range operations.
Farmington Region: Specialized services for oil and gas operations, energy facilities, and industrial businesses in northwestern New Mexico. The Four Corners region is a major energy production area with extensive oil, gas, and coal operations.
Roswell/Carlsbad Area: Hazardous waste management for oil and gas facilities, agricultural operations, potash mining, and commercial businesses in southeastern New Mexico. Carlsbad is home to significant potash mining operations and nuclear waste facilities.
Other Service Areas: We provide hazardous waste disposal services throughout all 33 counties in New Mexico, including Gallup, Clovis, Hobbs, Alamogordo, Silver City, Taos, and all communities statewide.
New Mexico Industries We Serve
New Mexico's diverse economy includes energy production, national defense research, mining, agriculture, and tourism. We provide specialized hazardous waste management services to all major industries operating throughout the state.
National Laboratories and Research Facilities
New Mexico is home to two of the nation's premier national laboratories - Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories - along with extensive research facilities. These institutions generate significant volumes of laboratory chemicals, radioactive materials (managed under separate protocols), research waste, and chemical reagents. We provide comprehensive laboratory waste management services including lab pack services, chemical waste disposal, universal waste management, and EPA-compliant waste handling for research and development facilities.
Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos conducts extensive nuclear weapons research, energy research, and scientific programs, generating laboratory chemicals, solvents, acids and bases, and research waste. Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque performs defense research, energy research, and technology development with similar waste streams. The Air Force Research Laboratory facilities, White Sands Missile Range, and various DOE facilities throughout the state also generate significant regulated waste requiring proper disposal.
University and Educational Institution Waste
New Mexico's universities and educational institutions generate laboratory waste from research, teaching, and operations. Major institutions include the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque with extensive research programs in medicine, engineering, and sciences; New Mexico State University in Las Cruces with significant agricultural research and engineering programs; New Mexico Tech in Socorro specializing in science and engineering; and Eastern New Mexico University in Portales. These institutions generate laboratory chemicals, biological waste, universal waste, maintenance chemicals, and research waste requiring proper disposal under EPA and NMED regulations.
Oil and Gas Industry Waste Management
New Mexico is a major oil and gas producing state, particularly in the Permian Basin of southeastern New Mexico and the San Juan Basin in the northwest. The industry generates drilling fluids and muds, produced water, hydraulic fracturing chemicals, used oils and lubricants, antifreeze, solvents and degreasers, paint and coatings, oilfield chemicals, universal waste including batteries and mercury-containing equipment, and contaminated materials. We provide comprehensive waste management services for exploration companies, production operators, drilling contractors, and oilfield service companies throughout New Mexico's energy corridors.
The Permian Basin spanning Eddy and Lea Counties is one of the most prolific oil and gas producing regions in the United States, with operations by major producers including Chevron, ExxonMobil, Occidental, ConocoPhillips, and numerous independent operators. The region generates enormous volumes of oilfield waste requiring proper management. The San Juan Basin in northwestern New Mexico near Farmington has extensive natural gas production with similar waste management needs.
Mining Operations Waste
New Mexico has significant mining operations including copper, potash, coal, and various minerals. Mining operations generate acids used in ore processing, mill tailings (regulated under mining-specific rules), explosives residues, equipment maintenance waste including used oil and hydraulic fluids, diesel fuel and petroleum products, solvents and degreasers, antifreeze, contaminated absorbents, universal waste, and laboratory chemicals from ore analysis. We serve mining operations throughout the state.
Potash mining in the Carlsbad area is particularly significant, with New Mexico being a major U.S. potash producer. Copper mining operations in southwestern New Mexico, coal mining operations (though declining), and various aggregate and industrial mineral operations all generate regulated waste requiring proper disposal under state and federal regulations.
Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities
New Mexico's manufacturing sector includes electronics, food processing, aerospace components, and various industrial operations. Manufacturing facilities generate spent solvents, metal finishing wastes, electroplating waste, painting and coating waste, adhesives and resins, process chemicals, cleaning agents, used oils and coolants, universal waste, and contaminated materials. We provide comprehensive waste management services for all manufacturing operations throughout the state.
Agricultural Operations Waste Management
New Mexico agriculture includes cattle ranching, dairy operations, chile pepper production, pecans, hay, and various crops. Agricultural operations generate pesticides and herbicides, fertilizers, veterinary pharmaceuticals, fuel and petroleum products, equipment maintenance waste, used motor oil and hydraulic fluids, antifreeze, batteries, and contaminated containers. We serve farms, ranches, dairies, and agricultural service providers throughout New Mexico.
Dairy operations in eastern and southern New Mexico generate significant volumes of cleaning chemicals, sanitizers, and equipment maintenance waste. Pecan orchards in the Mesilla Valley produce a major portion of U.S. pecans and use agricultural chemicals. Chile production, for which New Mexico is famous, involves pesticide and fertilizer use requiring proper waste management.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and healthcare facilities throughout New Mexico generate pharmaceutical waste, chemical disinfectants, laboratory chemicals, mercury-containing equipment, chemotherapy waste, photographic chemistry (declining), universal waste, and regulated medical waste (managed under separate protocols). We provide comprehensive hazardous waste management services for healthcare facilities of all sizes.
Major facilities include the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, Presbyterian Healthcare Services facilities, various Indian Health Service facilities serving tribal communities, Veterans Administration medical centers, and numerous regional hospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories throughout the state.
Military Installations and Defense Facilities
New Mexico has significant military presence including Kirtland Air Force Base, Cannon Air Force Base, Holloman Air Force Base, and White Sands Missile Range. Military installations generate jet fuel and aviation products, vehicle maintenance waste, weapons maintenance materials, spent solvents and degreasers, paints and coatings, electronic waste, batteries, and various other regulated materials. We work with defense contractors and support facilities serving these installations.
Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque is a major installation hosting Air Force Materiel Command operations, the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, and various defense research activities. White Sands Missile Range conducts extensive testing and generates associated waste. Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis and Holloman Air Force Base near Alamogordo also generate significant volumes of waste requiring proper management.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry
New Mexico's tourism industry includes hotels, resorts, ski areas, restaurants, and various hospitality operations. These facilities generate cleaning chemicals, pool maintenance chemicals (at properties with pools), kitchen chemicals and degreasers, pest control chemicals, paint and maintenance materials, universal waste including fluorescent bulbs and batteries, and used cooking oil (which may or may not be regulated depending on handling). We serve hospitality businesses throughout tourist areas.
Ski resorts including Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Red River, Angel Fire, Pajarito Mountain, and Sandia Peak generate maintenance chemicals, fuel, antifreeze, and equipment maintenance waste. Major hotel properties in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and tourist destinations generate ongoing waste from operations and maintenance.
Automotive and Transportation Services
Auto repair shops, dealerships, fleet maintenance facilities, and transportation companies generate used motor oil, antifreeze, spent solvents and degreasers, brake fluids, transmission fluids, contaminated absorbents, used oil filters, paint and body shop waste, batteries, tires (not hazardous but requiring special handling), mercury switches (in older vehicles), and aerosol cans. We provide comprehensive automotive waste management services throughout New Mexico.
Commercial and Retail Operations
Retail stores, shopping centers, commercial buildings, and various businesses generate maintenance waste, cleaning chemicals, pest control materials, fluorescent bulbs and ballasts, batteries, electronic waste, paint and coatings, aerosol cans, and various other regulated materials from operations and maintenance activities.
Types of Hazardous Waste We Handle in New Mexico
We manage all categories of hazardous waste generated by New Mexico businesses and institutions, ensuring compliance with EPA and NMED regulations.
Chemical Waste Disposal
Spent Solvents: Acetone, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, xylene, toluene, MEK (methyl ethyl ketone), mineral spirits, paint thinners, cleaning solvents, and other spent or waste solvents from manufacturing, laboratory, maintenance, and cleaning operations. Solvents are among the most common hazardous wastes and require proper characterization and disposal.
Acids and Bases: Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium hydroxide, and other corrosive materials from manufacturing, laboratory work, metal finishing, and various industrial processes. Proper pH management and neutralization documentation are critical.
Laboratory Chemicals: Reagents, standards, expired chemicals, reaction by-products, and waste from analytical testing, research and development, quality control, and educational laboratories. Laboratory chemicals often require lab pack services where multiple small containers are properly packaged for disposal.
Paint and Coatings: Oil-based paints, lacquers, varnishes, stains, epoxies, urethanes, and coating materials from manufacturing, maintenance, automotive, and construction operations. Paint waste must be properly characterized to determine appropriate disposal methods.
Petroleum Products and Oils
Used Oil: Waste motor oil, hydraulic fluids, transmission fluids, gear oils, and other petroleum-based lubricants from vehicle maintenance, equipment operation, and industrial machinery. Used oil may be managed under special used oil regulations if it meets certain criteria.
Contaminated Fuel: Off-specification fuels, contaminated gasoline or diesel, and other petroleum products that cannot be used for their intended purpose.
Oily Waste: Oil/water mixtures, petroleum-contaminated solids, tank bottoms, and other materials contaminated with oils or petroleum products.
Universal Waste Management
Fluorescent Bulbs and Lamps: Linear fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, neon tubes, and other mercury-containing lamps from commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities. Universal waste regulations provide streamlined management requirements for these common wastes.
Batteries: Lead-acid batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium batteries, mercury-containing batteries, and other battery types from vehicles, equipment, emergency lighting, electronics, and various applications.
Electronic Waste: Computers, monitors, televisions, printers, circuit boards, and other electronic equipment containing hazardous materials. E-waste is increasingly important as technology upgrades accelerate.
Mercury-Containing Equipment: Thermostats, switches, thermometers, gauges, and other devices containing elemental mercury.
Industrial and Manufacturing Waste
Metal Finishing Wastes: Electroplating solutions, metal cleaning wastes, spent baths, sludges from metal finishing operations, and materials contaminated with heavy metals such as chromium, cadmium, lead, nickel, and zinc.
Process Waste: Waste from chemical manufacturing, production operations, quality control, and various industrial processes specific to different industries.
Contaminated Materials: Rags, wipes, absorbents, personal protective equipment, filters, and other materials contaminated with hazardous chemicals or waste.
Agricultural Chemicals
Pesticides: Insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, rodenticides, and other pest control chemicals including both concentrate products and diluted application mixtures, as well as contaminated containers and rinse water.
Fertilizers: Certain fertilizers and soil amendments that may be regulated depending on composition and contamination.
Maintenance and Operations Waste
Aerosol Cans: Spray paints, lubricants, cleaning products, and other materials in pressurized containers. Aerosol cans may be managed as universal waste under certain conditions.
Adhesives and Resins: Epoxies, glues, mastics, and other bonding agents from manufacturing and construction operations.
Compressed Gas Cylinders: Lecture bottles, instrument cylinders, and other compressed gas containers requiring proper disposal.
New Mexico Hazardous Waste Regulations
New Mexico businesses must comply with both federal EPA regulations and state-specific requirements administered by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED).
New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) Oversight
The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has authority for hazardous waste regulation in the state through its Hazardous Waste Bureau. New Mexico is authorized by EPA to implement the federal hazardous waste program with some state-specific requirements. Businesses must comply with both federal RCRA regulations and New Mexico's implementing regulations.
Generator Categories and Requirements
Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) - formerly Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators - generate 100 kilograms (about 220 pounds or roughly 27 gallons) or less of hazardous waste per month and less than 1 kilogram per month of acutely hazardous waste. VSQGs have reduced regulatory requirements but must still ensure proper waste disposal.
Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) generate between 100 and 1,000 kilograms (about 220 to 2,200 pounds) of hazardous waste per month. SQGs must:
Obtain an EPA ID Number from NMED
Comply with basic waste management standards
Accumulate waste on-site for no more than 180 days (or 270 days if the treatment facility is more than 200 miles away)
Use proper containers and labeling
Train employees on hazardous waste management
Prepare waste for transportation using manifests
Maintain records for three years
The 270-day accumulation extension is commonly available for New Mexico SQGs since the state is large and treatment facilities are often distant, but proper documentation of distance is required.
Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) generate 1,000 kilograms (about 2,200 pounds) or more of hazardous waste per month. LQGs have the most stringent requirements including:
Obtaining EPA ID Number
90-day maximum accumulation time limit
Stringent container management and labeling requirements
Personnel training programs
Contingency plans and emergency procedures
Biennial reporting
Waste minimization certification
Comprehensive recordkeeping
Satellite Accumulation
Generators may accumulate up to 55 gallons of hazardous waste or 1 quart of acutely hazardous waste at or near the point of generation (satellite accumulation areas) before the accumulation time limits begin. Containers must be:
Kept closed except when adding waste
In good condition
Compatible with the waste
Marked with the words "Hazardous Waste" or other appropriate marking
Under the control of the operator of the process
Once the container is full, it must be moved to the central accumulation area within three days, and the accumulation time clock starts.
Waste Characterization
Generators must determine if their waste is hazardous through testing or applying knowledge of the materials and processes involved. Wastes can be hazardous if they are:
Listed wastes (appear on EPA's lists of hazardous wastes)
Characteristic wastes (exhibit ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity)
Proper waste characterization is critical for compliance and proper disposal, and generators are responsible for accurate characterization.
Hazardous Waste Manifests
When shipping hazardous waste off-site, generators must use a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (EPA Form 8700-22). The manifest serves as a tracking document from generation through disposal, implementing "cradle-to-grave" responsibility. As of June 30, 2018, EPA's e-Manifest system became available for electronic manifest submission, though paper manifests are still acceptable.
Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR)
Federal Land Disposal Restrictions require that hazardous wastes meet treatment standards before they can be land disposed. Generators must provide notification regarding LDR requirements with their waste shipments. Treatment facilities and disposal facilities are responsible for ensuring compliance with these standards.
New Mexico-Specific Requirements
While New Mexico largely follows federal regulations, there are some state-specific considerations:
State fee requirements for hazardous waste generators
Specific reporting and notification requirements to NMED
State inspection and enforcement programs
Integration with other state environmental programs
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations of hazardous waste regulations can result in significant penalties including:
Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day per violation under state law
Additional federal penalties under RCRA
Criminal penalties for knowing violations
Corrective action orders requiring cleanup
Permit revocation or suspension
New Mexico actively enforces hazardous waste regulations, and compliance is essential to avoid penalties and protect human health and the environment.
Our New Mexico Hazardous Waste Disposal Process
We provide streamlined, compliant hazardous waste management services throughout New Mexico.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Waste Evaluation
Contact us at (800) 582-4833 or info@hazardouswastedisposal.com to discuss your waste management needs. We'll gather information about:
Types and quantities of waste you generate
Your facility location and operations
Current waste management practices
Frequency of service needed
Any specific concerns or requirements
This consultation allows us to understand your situation and recommend appropriate solutions.
Step 2: Waste Characterization and Documentation
Proper waste characterization is the foundation of compliant hazardous waste management. We assist with:
Reviewing available information about your waste streams
Recommending testing if needed
Determining appropriate waste codes and classifications
Preparing required documentation
Ensuring regulatory compliance
Accurate characterization ensures your waste is managed properly and cost-effectively.
Step 3: Service Proposal and Scheduling
Based on your needs, we provide:
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Clear scope of services
Recommended service frequency
Container recommendations if needed
Scheduling options that minimize disruption to your operations
We work with your schedule and requirements to provide convenient service.
Step 4: Waste Packaging and Containerization
Proper packaging is critical for safe transportation and regulatory compliance. We provide guidance on:
Appropriate containers for different waste types
Proper labeling requirements
Accumulation time limit compliance
Storage requirements
Satellite accumulation best practices
For many clients, we provide containers (such as drums or pails) that you fill as you generate waste, then we pick up the full containers and leave empty replacements, ensuring continuous operations.
Step 5: Waste Pickup and Transportation
Our transportation services include:
Coordination with our network of licensed transporters throughout New Mexico and nationwide
DOT-compliant transportation
Proper manifest preparation and execution
Professional, uniformed drivers
Appropriate vehicles for your waste types
Flexible scheduling
We handle all transportation logistics to ensure your waste reaches the appropriate disposal facility safely and legally.
Step 6: Waste Processing and Disposal
Your waste is transported to permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) appropriate for your waste types:
Incineration for appropriate wastes at permitted facilities
Landfilling at hazardous waste landfills for wastes meeting land disposal restrictions
Fuel blending for certain waste solvents and fuels
Recycling for recyclable materials like metals, solvents, and universal wastes
Treatment as required by regulations before disposal
Stabilization for certain wastes before landfilling
We ensure your waste goes to appropriate, permitted facilities that comply with all regulations.
Step 7: Documentation and Compliance Records
We provide comprehensive documentation including:
Completed manifests with all required signatures
Certificates of disposal/destruction
Land disposal restriction notifications and certifications
Waste tracking records
Annual summaries for your records
Proper documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance with hazardous waste regulations and maintaining your records for the required retention period.
Ongoing Support and Service
We provide continuing support including:
Regular service on your schedule (weekly, monthly, quarterly, or as-needed)
Regulatory updates and compliance information
Waste minimization recommendations
Container management and supply
Emergency response for unexpected situations
Annual reviews of your waste management program
Benefits of Working With Hazardous Waste Disposal in New Mexico
Regulatory Expertise
Hazardous waste regulations are complex and constantly evolving. Our team stays current with EPA and New Mexico Environment Department requirements to ensure your operations remain compliant. We understand both federal RCRA regulations and New Mexico-specific requirements, including state fee programs, reporting requirements, and enforcement policies.
Comprehensive Service Network
While our primary operations are based in Florida, we have developed a comprehensive network of vendor partners throughout the United States, including New Mexico. This allows us to serve clients nationwide by coordinating with qualified, permitted facilities and transporters throughout the region. Our national reach means we can handle waste management needs regardless of your location.
Industry Experience
With operations since 1992, we bring decades of experience in hazardous waste management. We understand the specific needs of different industries and can provide tailored solutions for laboratories, manufacturing facilities, healthcare institutions, oil and gas operations, agricultural businesses, and all other waste generators throughout New Mexico.
Transparent Pricing
We provide clear, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. You'll know exactly what services cost before we begin, allowing you to budget appropriately and avoid surprises.
Safety First
Safety is our top priority in all waste management activities. We follow strict protocols for waste handling, packaging, and transportation to protect our team, your employees, the public, and the environment.
Flexibility and Responsiveness
We understand that business needs vary. Whether you need regular scheduled service or one-time cleanup assistance, we provide flexible solutions. Our team is responsive to your questions and concerns, providing the personalized service that makes waste management straightforward.
Environmental Responsibility
Proper hazardous waste management protects New Mexico's environment, including its groundwater resources, rivers, air quality, and public lands. We're committed to ensuring waste is managed in an environmentally protective manner that meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements.
Best Practices for New Mexico Hazardous Waste Generators
Maintain Proper Container Management
Use appropriate containers for your waste types:
Containers must be in good condition without leaks or damage
Containers must be compatible with the waste (proper material of construction)
Keep containers closed except when adding or removing waste
Label containers with the words "Hazardous Waste" and other required information
Mark accumulation start dates on containers when moving from satellite to central accumulation
Store containers in appropriate areas with secondary containment where required
Implement Employee Training
Ensure all employees who handle hazardous waste receive appropriate training:
Initial training for new employees before they handle hazardous waste
Annual refresher training for all hazardous waste handlers
Documentation of training dates, content, and attendees
Training on emergency procedures and spill response
Role-specific training based on employee responsibilities
Training is not just a regulatory requirement - it's essential for safety and compliance.
Manage Accumulation Time Limits
Track your accumulation time limits carefully:
VSQGs should dispose of waste promptly even though regulatory limits are less stringent
SQGs must not exceed 180 days (or 270 days with qualifying distance documentation)
LQGs must not exceed 90 days
Mark accumulation start dates clearly on containers
Maintain documentation of accumulation dates
Schedule waste pickup well before limits expire
Exceeding accumulation time limits can change your generator status and expose you to enforcement action.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Implement an inspection program:
Weekly inspections of hazardous waste accumulation areas
Inspection checklists documenting container condition, labeling, and management practices
Documentation of inspections (required for LQGs, recommended for all generators)
Prompt correction of any deficiencies found
Inspection of secondary containment and storage areas
Regular inspections help identify problems before they become violations.
Minimize Waste Generation
Implement waste minimization practices:
Purchase only what you need to reduce excess chemicals
Use less hazardous substitutes where possible
Implement process improvements to reduce waste generation
Train employees on waste reduction techniques
Recycle materials when appropriate
Track waste generation to identify reduction opportunities
Waste minimization not only reduces disposal costs but is also required for Large Quantity Generators and benefits the environment.
Prepare for Inspections
Be ready for NMED inspections:
Keep all required records organized and accessible
Ensure facilities are in compliance before inspectors arrive
Designate knowledgeable staff to interface with inspectors
Understand your rights and responsibilities during inspections
Address any violations or concerns promptly
Maintain professional, cooperative relationships with regulators
Plan for Emergencies
Prepare for potential emergencies:
Develop spill response procedures
Maintain appropriate spill response equipment and materials
Train employees on emergency procedures
Post emergency contact information
Coordinate with local emergency responders
Have appropriate fire suppression equipment for your waste types
Maintain appropriate insurance coverage
Emergency preparedness is required for LQGs through contingency plans and is prudent for all generators.
Maintain Required Records
Keep all required documentation:
EPA ID Number documentation
Hazardous waste determinations
Manifests (signed copies for at least three years)
Training records
Inspection logs
Any required reports to NMED
Biennial reports (for LQGs)
Exception reports if return copies of manifests are not received
Good recordkeeping demonstrates compliance and protects you in the event of questions or enforcement actions.
Geographic and Climate Considerations in New Mexico
Arid Climate Impacts
New Mexico's arid climate presents unique considerations:
Evaporation: Containers may lose liquid through evaporation if not properly sealed, potentially concentrating hazardous constituents
Dust: Wind-blown dust can contaminate outdoor storage areas and waste containers
Extreme Heat: Summer temperatures in much of the state can be very high, potentially causing container degradation, pressure buildup in sealed containers, and increased evaporation
Temperature Fluctuations: Large diurnal temperature swings can stress containers and affect waste characteristics
UV Exposure: Intense sunlight can degrade plastic containers and cause photo-degradation of some chemicals
Proper container selection, storage practices, and monitoring are essential in New Mexico's climate.
Water Resource Protection
Water is precious in New Mexico, and groundwater protection is a critical priority:
Proper hazardous waste management prevents groundwater contamination
Secondary containment is important even where not specifically required
Spill response must be immediate and thorough
Proper disposal prevents pollutants from entering aquifers
Many communities depend entirely on groundwater for drinking water
The state's limited water resources make proper waste management especially important.
Elevation Considerations
New Mexico's varied elevation affects operations:
High elevation areas (much of the state is above 5,000 feet) can affect:
Container pressure (sealed containers may bulge or leak due to lower atmospheric pressure)
Vehicle performance and transportation logistics
Worker physiology and safety considerations
Lower elevation areas (like Carlsbad Caverns at about 4,400 feet floor) have different considerations
Elevation changes during transportation can affect container pressure
Understanding elevation impacts helps prevent problems with waste containers and transportation.
Remote Location Challenges
New Mexico is the fifth-largest state by area but has low population density:
Many facilities are located far from hazardous waste disposal facilities, qualifying for 270-day accumulation extensions for SQGs
Transportation distances and costs can be significant
Consolidated shipments are often more cost-effective than frequent small shipments
Emergency response may take longer in remote areas
Planning and scheduling are important for efficient service
Working with experienced waste management professionals helps address these challenges.
Winter Weather
While not as severe as northern states, winter weather does impact operations:
Northern New Mexico and higher elevations receive significant snow
Freezing temperatures can affect some waste types and container materials
Ice can make outdoor storage areas hazardous
Road closures in mountain areas can affect transportation schedules
Antifreeze generation increases during cold months
Planning for seasonal variations ensures continuous compliant operations.
Common New Mexico Hazardous Waste Questions
Q: How do I get an EPA ID Number in New Mexico? A: Contact the New Mexico Environment Department's Hazardous Waste Bureau or use EPA's electronic system at epa.gov/hwgenerators to obtain your EPA ID Number. You'll need to provide information about your facility and waste generation activities. We can assist with this process.
Q: What generator category is my facility? A: Your generator category depends on how much hazardous waste you generate per month. Calculate the total weight of hazardous waste you generate (not including reclaimed materials or wastes managed under special provisions like universal waste). Less than 100 kg/month = VSQG, 100-1,000 kg/month = SQG, over 1,000 kg/month = LQG.
Q: Can I store hazardous waste longer if I have limited quantities? A: Accumulation time limits are based on your generator category and the distance to disposal facilities, not on how much waste you have. SQGs may store waste for up to 180 days, or 270 days if more than 200 miles from the disposal facility. LQGs are limited to 90 days regardless of distance. Exceeding these limits can result in violations.
Q: Do I need to test my waste or can I use process knowledge? A: EPA regulations allow waste characterization through either testing or applying knowledge of the materials and processes that generated the waste. However, adequate knowledge must be available and documented. When in doubt, testing provides definitive characterization and may be advisable.
Q: What is the e-Manifest system? A: The e-Manifest system is EPA's electronic manifest system that became operational in 2018. It allows electronic preparation, submission, and tracking of hazardous waste manifests. Generators can use e-Manifest or continue using paper manifests - both are acceptable.
Q: Does New Mexico have any unique hazardous waste requirements? A: While New Mexico largely follows federal regulations, the state has some specific requirements including state fees for generators, specific reporting requirements, and integration with other state environmental programs. The New Mexico Environment Department provides guidance on state-specific requirements.
Q: What should I do if I have a hazardous waste spill or release? A: Immediately contain the spill if it can be done safely, protect personnel, evacuate if necessary, and contact appropriate response resources. For large releases or releases that may impact the environment, contact the National Response Center (1-800-424-8802) and the New Mexico Environment Department Emergency Response (505-827-9329 or after hours 505-827-9300). We can also assist with cleanup and proper disposal of spill materials.
Q: Can I throw fluorescent bulbs in the regular trash? A: Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and are regulated as universal waste in New Mexico. While universal waste rules are streamlined compared to full hazardous waste regulations, fluorescent bulbs should be collected and recycled through proper channels, not disposed of in regular trash. We provide universal waste management services.
Q: How long do I need to keep hazardous waste records? A: Generators must keep signed copies of manifests and other hazardous waste records for at least three years. Large Quantity Generators must keep additional records including training records, inspection logs, and biennial reports. Some records may need to be kept longer if enforcement actions are pending.
Q: What are the penalties for hazardous waste violations in New Mexico? A: Civil penalties can be up to $25,000 per day per violation under New Mexico law, with additional federal penalties possible under RCRA. Criminal penalties apply for knowing violations. More importantly, violations can harm human health and the environment and damage your business reputation. Compliance is always more cost-effective than penalties.
Industries With Specialized Needs in New Mexico
National Laboratory Waste Management
Los Alamos National Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratories, and other research facilities generate unique waste streams including laboratory chemicals, radioactive waste (under separate regulations), mixed waste, and research materials. These institutions have specialized waste management requirements and often have on-site waste management capabilities, but also require off-site disposal services for non-radioactive hazardous wastes.
Oil and Gas Sector Services
The oil and gas industry in New Mexico generates enormous volumes of waste from drilling, production, and processing operations. Services for this sector include:
Drilling fluid and mud disposal
Produced water management
Oilfield chemical waste
Equipment maintenance waste
Tank cleaning waste
Spill cleanup and remediation materials
We coordinate with specialized oilfield waste management vendors to serve this critical industry.
Mining Industry Support
Mining operations require specialized waste management services including:
Acids and bases from ore processing
Cyanide-containing wastes from gold processing (where still used)
Heavy metal-containing waste
Equipment maintenance waste
Laboratory waste from ore analysis
Explosives-related waste
Proper waste management is essential for mining permit compliance and environmental protection.
Military Installation Services
New Mexico's military bases generate diverse waste streams including:
Jet fuel and aviation products
Munitions-related waste
Vehicle and equipment maintenance waste
Electronics and universal waste
Building maintenance waste
Laboratory and research waste
We work with contractors and vendors serving military installations to ensure proper waste management.
Contact Hazardous Waste Disposal for New Mexico Services
Whether you're located in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Farmington, Roswell, or anywhere else in New Mexico, we provide professional hazardous waste management services tailored to your needs.
Phone: (800) 582-4833
Email: info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Website: www.hazardouswastedisposal.com
Our team is ready to assist with:
Initial waste assessments and consultations
Regulatory compliance guidance
Scheduled waste pickup services
One-time cleanouts and projects
Emergency response and spill cleanup coordination
Container supply and management
Training and best practices support
All types of hazardous and universal waste
Contact us today to discuss your New Mexico hazardous waste management needs. We provide responsive, professional service with transparent pricing and regulatory expertise.
Why Choose Hazardous Waste Disposal
Experience: Operating since 1992, we bring over three decades of hazardous waste management expertise.
Compliance: We ensure your operations meet all EPA and New Mexico Environment Department requirements.
Nationwide Network: Our vendor partnerships allow us to serve clients throughout New Mexico and across the United States.
Industry Knowledge: We understand the specific needs of laboratories, manufacturers, healthcare facilities, oil and gas operations, agricultural businesses, and all other industries.
Responsive Service: We provide prompt, professional responses to your inquiries and service needs.
Transparent Pricing: Clear pricing with no hidden fees allows you to budget confidently.
Safety Focus: We prioritize safety in all aspects of waste management operations.
Environmental Protection: We're committed to protecting New Mexico's environment through proper waste management practices.
Let us handle your hazardous waste management needs so you can focus on your core business operations. Contact Hazardous Waste Disposal today at (800) 582-4833 or info@hazardouswastedisposal.com.