Hazardous Waste Disposal in Pennsylvania

Professional Hazardous Waste Management Services Throughout Pennsylvania

Businesses and institutions across Pennsylvania generate hazardous waste that requires proper disposal to meet EPA and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations. From pharmaceutical manufacturing to steel production, proper hazardous waste management is essential for compliance, safety, and environmental protection. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides expert waste management services throughout the Keystone State.

Call (800) 582-4833 for Pennsylvania hazardous waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

Hazardous Waste Services Across Pennsylvania

We provide comprehensive hazardous waste disposal services to businesses, industries, institutions, and organizations throughout Pennsylvania. Our services cover all major metropolitan areas and regions across the state, ensuring Pennsylvania businesses have access to reliable, compliant waste management solutions.

Major Service Areas in Pennsylvania

Philadelphia Metro Area: Comprehensive hazardous waste services for pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, hospitals, universities, manufacturers, and commercial businesses in Pennsylvania's largest city and surrounding counties including Montgomery, Delaware, Chester, and Bucks Counties. Philadelphia is a major pharmaceutical and life sciences hub.

Pittsburgh Region: Hazardous waste management for healthcare institutions, universities, manufacturing operations, technology companies, and commercial businesses in Western Pennsylvania's largest city and surrounding areas including Allegheny County and the greater Pittsburgh metro.

Lehigh Valley (Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton): Waste disposal services for manufacturers, healthcare facilities, universities, and commercial businesses in this major industrial and distribution center.

Harrisburg/Central Pennsylvania: Hazardous waste services for state government facilities, healthcare institutions, manufacturers, and commercial operations in the state capital and surrounding areas including York, Lancaster, and Central PA.

Erie Region: Services for manufacturers, healthcare facilities, and businesses in Northwestern Pennsylvania along Lake Erie.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Northeast PA): Hazardous waste management for healthcare facilities, manufacturers, and commercial businesses in the Wyoming Valley and surrounding areas.

Other Service Areas: We provide hazardous waste disposal services throughout all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, including State College, Reading, Altoona, Johnstown, Williamsport, and all communities statewide from the Delaware River to Lake Erie.

Pennsylvania Industries We Serve

Pennsylvania's diverse economy includes pharmaceuticals, healthcare, education, manufacturing, energy, and technology. We provide specialized hazardous waste management services to all major industries operating throughout the Commonwealth.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industry

Pennsylvania, particularly the Greater Philadelphia area, is one of the world's premier pharmaceutical and life sciences centers. The region has earned recognition as a major biopharmaceutical hub with extensive operations:

Major Pharmaceutical Operations: The Philadelphia area and surrounding regions host numerous pharmaceutical companies including:

  • Major pharmaceutical manufacturers with significant operations

  • Biotechnology companies and startups

  • Contract research organizations (CROs)

  • Contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs)

  • Pharmaceutical research facilities

  • Clinical development operations

These facilities generate:

  • Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates

  • Process chemicals and solvents

  • Research and development chemicals

  • Laboratory reagents and analytical waste

  • Quality control waste

  • Manufacturing process waste

  • Cleaning validation waste

  • Expired or off-specification products

  • Pilot plant waste

  • Contaminated equipment and materials

  • Biological waste (managed under separate protocols)

Pennsylvania's pharmaceutical industry is a major economic driver and generates significant volumes of specialized hazardous waste requiring careful characterization, segregation, and disposal to ensure regulatory compliance, public safety, and environmental protection.

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Pennsylvania has one of the largest and most sophisticated healthcare systems in the United States with world-renowned hospitals and medical centers:

Philadelphia Area:

  • University of Pennsylvania Health System - major academic medical center

  • Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals - extensive healthcare network

  • Temple University Health System

  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) - premier pediatric hospital

  • Penn Presbyterian Medical Center

  • Numerous other hospitals and medical facilities

Pittsburgh Area:

  • UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) - one of the nation's largest healthcare systems

  • Allegheny Health Network

  • Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

  • UPMC Presbyterian and other UPMC facilities

Other Major Systems:

  • Penn State Health (Hershey and locations throughout PA)

  • Geisinger Health System (Danville and extensive network)

  • Lehigh Valley Health Network

  • WellSpan Health (York and South Central PA)

  • Numerous regional hospitals and medical centers throughout the state

Healthcare facilities generate:

  • Pharmaceutical waste (both controlled and non-controlled substances)

  • Chemical disinfectants and sterilants

  • Laboratory chemicals

  • Chemotherapy waste (requiring specialized handling and disposal)

  • Formaldehyde from pathology departments

  • Xylene and other tissue staining chemicals

  • Mercury-containing equipment (decreasing but still present)

  • Silver-containing materials from radiology

  • Universal waste

  • Regulated medical waste (managed under separate state-specific protocols)

We provide comprehensive hazardous waste management for healthcare facilities of all sizes throughout Pennsylvania, including DEA-witnessed destruction for controlled substances.

University and Research Institution Waste

Pennsylvania is home to numerous prestigious universities and research institutions generating significant laboratory waste:

Major Research Universities:

University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) - Ivy League research university with:

  • Perelman School of Medicine

  • School of Engineering and Applied Science

  • School of Arts and Sciences with extensive research programs

  • Multiple research centers and institutes

University of Pittsburgh - major research university with:

  • Schools of Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy, Public Health

  • Extensive biomedical research programs

  • Multiple research institutes

Penn State University (State College and campuses statewide) - land-grant research university with:

  • College of Medicine (Hershey)

  • Colleges of Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, Science

  • Research programs across multiple disciplines

  • Commonwealth campuses throughout Pennsylvania

Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh) - premier technology and research institution with:

  • School of Computer Science

  • College of Engineering

  • Research programs in robotics, AI, and technology

Drexel University (Philadelphia) - research university with strong engineering and health sciences programs

Temple University (Philadelphia) - research university with medical school and extensive programs

Lehigh University (Bethlehem) - research university with engineering and science focus

Villanova University, Duquesne University, Bucknell University, Lafayette College, Haverford College, Swarthmore College, and numerous other institutions

These universities generate:

  • Laboratory chemicals and reagents

  • Research waste from diverse programs

  • Spent solvents

  • Acids and bases

  • Heavy metal-containing materials

  • Photographic chemicals (declining)

  • Biological waste (managed separately)

  • Universal waste

  • Maintenance chemicals

  • Teaching laboratory waste

We provide lab pack services, chemical waste disposal, and comprehensive waste management for educational and research institutions throughout Pennsylvania.

Manufacturing Industry

Pennsylvania maintains significant manufacturing operations despite industrial changes over decades:

Steel and Metals: While much smaller than historic levels, Pennsylvania still has:

  • Steel production facilities

  • Metal fabrication operations

  • Foundries

  • Specialty metals manufacturing

These operations generate metal finishing wastes, pickling liquors, spent acids and bases, slag (may be regulated), electroplating waste, and heavy metal-containing materials.

Chemical Manufacturing: Pennsylvania has chemical production including:

  • Industrial chemicals

  • Specialty chemicals

  • Pharmaceutical ingredients

  • Chemical intermediates

Chemical manufacturers generate process waste, off-specification products, spent catalysts, contaminated materials, and various chemical waste streams.

Food Processing: Pennsylvania food processing includes:

  • Meat processing

  • Dairy products

  • Snack foods (Pennsylvania has major snack food companies)

  • Baking and bakery products

  • Mushroom processing (Pennsylvania is major mushroom producer)

  • Chocolate and candy manufacturing (Hershey and others)

  • Beverage production

Food processing generates cleaning chemicals, sanitizers, refrigeration system chemicals, laboratory chemicals, equipment maintenance waste, and process chemicals.

Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing: Production of industrial machinery, HVAC equipment, and various machinery generating metalworking fluids, solvents, degreasers, and maintenance waste.

Fabricated Metal Products: Metal fabrication operations throughout the state generating cutting fluids, coolants, metal finishing waste, and contaminated materials.

Plastics Manufacturing: Plastics production and fabrication generating process chemicals, solvents, and manufacturing waste.

Paper and Printing: Though declining, paper mills and printing operations generate process chemicals, inks, solvents, and cleaning agents.

Energy Industry - Marcellus Shale

Pennsylvania sits atop the Marcellus Shale formation, one of the largest natural gas reserves in the United States. Natural gas development, particularly in Western and Northern Pennsylvania, has been significant:

Natural Gas Extraction: Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) operations generate:

  • Drilling fluids and muds

  • Hydraulic fracturing fluids

  • Produced water (managed under oil and gas regulations)

  • Equipment maintenance waste

  • Used oils and lubricants

  • Solvents and degreasers

  • Contaminated materials

Pipeline Operations: Extensive natural gas pipeline infrastructure generates maintenance waste and materials.

Processing Facilities: Natural gas processing facilities generate process chemicals and waste.

While much drilling waste is managed under oil and gas-specific regulations, certain wastes from these operations (solvents, paints, maintenance chemicals) are subject to hazardous waste regulations.

Coal Mining Legacy

While coal mining has declined, Pennsylvania has:

  • Some remaining coal operations

  • Legacy environmental issues from historic mining

  • Acid mine drainage remediation projects

Agriculture

Pennsylvania agriculture includes:

  • Dairy operations (significant industry)

  • Poultry and egg production

  • Cattle operations

  • Hog production

  • Mushroom production (major national producer - primarily in Chester County)

  • Corn, soybeans, hay

  • Nursery and greenhouse operations

  • Fruit production (apples, grapes for wine)

Agricultural operations generate:

  • Pesticides and herbicides

  • Fertilizers

  • Veterinary pharmaceuticals

  • Equipment maintenance waste

  • Fuel and petroleum products

  • Used oils and hydraulic fluids

  • Antifreeze

  • Batteries

  • Contaminated containers

Pennsylvania wine industry (particularly in Erie County and Southeastern PA) generates winemaking chemicals and laboratory waste.

Automotive and Transportation Services

Auto repair shops, dealerships, truck stops, fleet maintenance facilities, and transportation companies throughout Pennsylvania generate:

  • Used motor oil

  • Antifreeze

  • Spent solvents and degreasers

  • Brake fluids and transmission fluids

  • Contaminated absorbents

  • Used oil filters

  • Paint and body shop waste

  • Batteries

  • Mercury switches (in older vehicles)

  • Aerosol cans

Pennsylvania's extensive transportation infrastructure and population generate significant automotive maintenance waste.

Commercial and Retail Operations

Commercial businesses throughout Pennsylvania generate:

  • Maintenance chemicals

  • Cleaning products

  • Pest control materials

  • Fluorescent bulbs and ballasts

  • Batteries

  • Electronic waste

  • Paint and coatings

  • Aerosol cans

Types of Hazardous Waste We Handle in Pennsylvania

We manage all categories of hazardous waste generated by Pennsylvania businesses and institutions, ensuring compliance with EPA and Pennsylvania DEP regulations.

Chemical Waste Disposal

Spent Solvents: Acetone, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, xylene, toluene, MEK (methyl ethyl ketone), mineral spirits, paint thinners, cleaning solvents, chlorinated solvents, and other spent or waste solvents from pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory operations, manufacturing, healthcare, printing, and maintenance activities.

Acids and Bases: Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, chromic acid, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium hydroxide, and other corrosive materials from pharmaceutical production, laboratory work, metal finishing, chemical manufacturing, and various industrial processes.

Laboratory Chemicals: Reagents, standards, expired chemicals, reaction by-products, and waste from analytical testing, university research, pharmaceutical R&D, quality control, hospital laboratories, and educational laboratories. Pennsylvania's extensive research and pharmaceutical sectors generate significant laboratory chemical waste requiring lab pack services.

Paint and Coatings: Oil-based paints, lacquers, varnishes, stains, epoxies, urethanes, and coating materials from manufacturing, maintenance, automotive, and construction operations.

Pharmaceutical Waste

Non-controlled Pharmaceutical Waste: Expired medications, damaged pharmaceuticals, waste from manufacturing and compounding, quality control waste, clinical trial materials, and other pharmaceutical waste not containing DEA-controlled substances.

Controlled Substance Waste: DEA-regulated pharmaceuticals requiring special handling and documentation including:

  • DEA Form 41 completion

  • Witnessed destruction

  • Dual compliance with both DEA and EPA/Pennsylvania DEP regulations

  • Proper recordkeeping

Chemotherapy Waste: Cytotoxic and antineoplastic agents requiring specialized handling and disposal. Many chemotherapy drugs are P-listed hazardous wastes requiring specific management.

Industrial and Manufacturing Waste

Metal Finishing Wastes: Electroplating solutions, metal cleaning wastes, spent plating baths, pickling liquors, sludges from metal finishing operations, and materials contaminated with heavy metals such as chromium, cadmium, lead, nickel, copper, and zinc.

Process Waste: Waste from chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, food processing, 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.

Petroleum Products and Oils

Used Oil: Waste motor oil, hydraulic fluids, transmission fluids, gear oils, cutting oils, and other petroleum-based lubricants from vehicle maintenance, equipment operation, and industrial machinery. Pennsylvania generates significant used oil from manufacturing and transportation.

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, mercury vapor lamps, metal halide lamps, and other mercury-containing lamps from commercial, industrial, institutional, and healthcare facilities.

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, servers, circuit boards, and other electronic equipment containing hazardous materials. Pennsylvania has specific requirements for electronic waste management.

Mercury-Containing Equipment: Thermostats, switches, thermometers, gauges, relays, and other devices containing elemental mercury.

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.

Veterinary Pharmaceuticals: Animal medications and veterinary chemicals from dairy, poultry, livestock operations, and agricultural businesses.

Fertilizers: Certain fertilizers and soil amendments that may be regulated depending on composition and contamination.

Pennsylvania Hazardous Waste Regulations

Pennsylvania businesses must comply with both federal EPA regulations and state-specific requirements administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Pennsylvania DEP Bureau of Waste Management

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), specifically its Bureau of Waste Management, administers the hazardous waste program in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is authorized by EPA to implement the federal hazardous waste program and has adopted state-specific requirements.

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 to legitimate facilities.

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 Pennsylvania DEP

  • 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 available for Pennsylvania SQGs if the disposal facility is more than 200 miles away. 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 from Pennsylvania DEP

  • 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

Pennsylvania-Specific Requirements

Pennsylvania has state-specific requirements including:

Residual Waste Program: Pennsylvania regulates certain industrial wastes under its residual waste program, which operates alongside the hazardous waste program. Some wastes may be subject to both programs or one program depending on characteristics.

Registration and Fees: Pennsylvania DEP requires registration and fees for hazardous waste activities.

Notification Requirements: Specific notification and reporting requirements to Pennsylvania DEP beyond federal requirements.

Storage Standards: Pennsylvania may have specific standards for waste storage facilities.

Integration with Other Programs: Coordination with Pennsylvania's other environmental programs including air quality, water quality, and solid waste management.

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" and other appropriate labeling

  • 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 - F, K, P, or U lists)

  • Characteristic wastes (exhibit ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity)

Pennsylvania requires thorough documentation of waste characterization, and generators should ensure adequate knowledge or testing supports their determinations.

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. EPA's e-Manifest system is available for electronic manifest submission, though paper manifests remain 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.

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 Pennsylvania law

  • Additional federal penalties under RCRA

  • Criminal penalties for knowing violations

  • Corrective action orders requiring cleanup

  • Permit revocation or suspension

  • Potential personal liability for responsible parties

Pennsylvania DEP actively enforces hazardous waste regulations, and compliance is essential to avoid penalties and protect human health and the environment.

Our Pennsylvania Hazardous Waste Disposal Process

We provide streamlined, compliant hazardous waste management services throughout Pennsylvania.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Waste Evaluation

Contact us at (800) 582-4833 or info@hazardouswastedisposal.com to discuss your waste management needs.

Step 2: Waste Characterization and Documentation

We assist with proper waste characterization, testing recommendations, waste coding, and documentation preparation ensuring compliance with EPA and Pennsylvania DEP requirements.

Step 3: Service Proposal and Scheduling

We provide transparent pricing, clear service scope, recommended frequency, container recommendations, and flexible scheduling.

Step 4: Waste Packaging and Containerization

We guide proper packaging including appropriate containers, proper labeling, accumulation time limit compliance, and storage requirements.

Step 5: Waste Pickup and Transportation

Our transportation services include coordination with licensed transporters, DOT-compliant transportation, proper manifest preparation, professional drivers, and appropriate vehicles.

Step 6: Waste Processing and Disposal

Your waste is transported to permitted facilities appropriate for your waste types through incineration, landfilling, fuel blending, recycling, treatment, or stabilization.

Step 7: Documentation and Compliance Records

We provide comprehensive documentation including completed manifests, certificates of disposal, LDR notifications, waste tracking records, and annual summaries.

Ongoing Support and Service

We provide continuing support including regular service, regulatory updates, waste minimization recommendations, container management, emergency response coordination, and training support.

Benefits of Working With Hazardous Waste Disposal in Pennsylvania

Regulatory Expertise

Our team stays current with EPA and Pennsylvania DEP requirements to ensure your operations remain compliant with both federal and state regulations, including Pennsylvania's residual waste program where applicable.

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 extensive partnerships in Pennsylvania. This allows us to serve clients from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, Erie to Harrisburg, and everywhere in between.

Industry Experience

With operations since 1992, we bring decades of experience. We understand the specific needs of pharmaceutical and biotech companies, healthcare facilities, universities, manufacturing operations, energy sector businesses, agricultural operations, and all other Pennsylvania industries.

Transparent Pricing

We provide clear, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. You'll know exactly what services cost before we begin.

Safety First

Safety is our top priority in all waste management activities.

Environmental Responsibility

Proper hazardous waste management protects Pennsylvania's environment including the Delaware River, Susquehanna River, Ohio River watersheds, Lake Erie, groundwater resources, and the Commonwealth's natural areas.

Best Practices for Pennsylvania Hazardous Waste Generators

Maintain Proper Container Management

Use appropriate containers compatible with waste, keep containers closed except when adding waste, label properly, mark accumulation dates, store appropriately with secondary containment, and inspect regularly.

Implement Employee Training

Provide initial training for new employees, annual refresher training, documentation of training, emergency procedures training, and role-specific training.

Manage Accumulation Time Limits

Track time limits carefully (180/270 days for SQGs, 90 days for LQGs), mark accumulation start dates clearly, schedule pickup before limits expire, and maintain documentation.

Conduct Regular Inspections

Implement weekly inspections of accumulation areas, use inspection checklists, document findings, correct deficiencies promptly, and inspect secondary containment.

Minimize Waste Generation

Purchase only needed quantities, use less hazardous alternatives, implement process improvements, recycle when appropriate, and track generation for reduction opportunities.

Prepare for Inspections

Keep all required records organized, ensure facilities are in compliance, designate knowledgeable staff, understand rights and responsibilities, address violations promptly, and maintain professional relationships with regulators.

Plan for Emergencies

Develop spill response procedures, maintain spill response equipment, train employees on emergency procedures, post emergency contact information, coordinate with local emergency responders, have appropriate fire suppression equipment, and maintain insurance.

Maintain Required Records

Keep EPA ID Number documentation, hazardous waste determinations, manifests for at least three years, training records, inspection logs, required reports to Pennsylvania DEP, biennial reports (LQGs), and exception reports.

Geographic and Climate Considerations in Pennsylvania

Diverse Geography

Pennsylvania's geography varies significantly:

  • Southeastern PA: Rolling hills, Philadelphia urban area, moderate climate

  • South-Central PA: Appalachian ridges and valleys

  • Northeastern PA: Pocono Mountains, Wyoming Valley

  • Western PA: Pittsburgh urban area, Allegheny Plateau, Ohio River drainage

  • Northwestern PA: Lake Erie shore, Erie city

  • Central PA: Ridge and Valley, State College area

Climate Impacts

Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate:

  • Cold winters with snow (especially in mountains and northern areas)

  • Hot, humid summers

  • Moderate spring and fall seasons

  • Temperature extremes affecting container storage

  • Winter weather impacts on transportation and outdoor storage

Water Resource Protection

Pennsylvania has extensive water resources:

  • Delaware River watershed (eastern PA)

  • Susquehanna River watershed (central PA)

  • Ohio River watershed (western PA)

  • Lake Erie (northwestern border)

  • Numerous rivers, streams, and tributaries

  • Groundwater aquifers

Proper hazardous waste management prevents contamination of these critical resources.

Legacy Environmental Issues

Pennsylvania's industrial history requires attention to:

  • Legacy contamination from past industrial operations

  • Brownfield redevelopment

  • Acid mine drainage from historic coal mining

  • Superfund sites requiring remediation

Common Pennsylvania Hazardous Waste Questions

Q: How do I get an EPA ID Number in Pennsylvania? A: Contact Pennsylvania DEP's Bureau of Waste Management or use EPA's online system at epa.gov/hwgenerators.

Q: How does Pennsylvania's residual waste program relate to hazardous waste? A: Pennsylvania regulates certain industrial wastes under its residual waste program. Some wastes may be subject to hazardous waste regulations, residual waste regulations, or both. Consult with waste management professionals to determine applicable requirements.

Q: Can I qualify for the 270-day accumulation extension? A: Yes, if your SQG facility is more than 200 miles from the disposal facility. Document the distance appropriately.

Q: How do I handle pharmaceutical waste in Pennsylvania? A: Pharmaceutical waste must be managed as hazardous waste under EPA and Pennsylvania DEP regulations. Controlled substances also require DEA compliance including Form 41 and witnessed destruction. We provide comprehensive pharmaceutical waste services.

Q: What should I do if I have a spill? A: Contain if safe, protect personnel, evacuate if necessary. For reportable releases, contact the National Response Center (1-800-424-8802) and Pennsylvania DEP (1-800-541-2050).

Q: How long must I keep records? A: Manifests and hazardous waste records must be kept for at least three years. Some records may require longer retention.

Q: What are penalties for violations in Pennsylvania? A: Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day per violation, plus federal penalties. Compliance is always more cost-effective.

Industries With Specialized Needs in Pennsylvania

Pharmaceutical and Biotech Sector

Pennsylvania's pharmaceutical industry requires:

  • API and process waste management

  • Laboratory chemical disposal

  • Quality control waste handling

  • Research and development waste

  • Pilot plant waste management

  • DEA compliance for controlled substances

  • High-volume coordination

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals and medical centers need:

  • Pharmaceutical waste services including controlled substances

  • Chemotherapy waste handling

  • Laboratory chemical management

  • Universal waste programs

  • Compliance with healthcare-specific regulations

Universities and Research

Educational institutions require:

  • Lab pack services for diverse chemicals

  • Chemical consolidation and disposal

  • Research waste management

  • Academic calendar flexibility

  • Safety training support

Manufacturing Operations

Pennsylvania manufacturers need:

  • Process waste management

  • Metal finishing waste disposal

  • Solvent recovery coordination

  • Equipment maintenance waste handling

Contact Hazardous Waste Disposal for Pennsylvania Services

Whether you're in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown, Erie, Scranton, or anywhere in Pennsylvania, we provide professional hazardous waste management services.

Phone: (800) 582-4833
Email: info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Website: www.hazardouswastedisposal.com

Contact us for waste assessments, regulatory compliance guidance, scheduled pickup services, one-time cleanouts, emergency response, container supply, training support, and all hazardous and universal waste types.

Why Choose Hazardous Waste Disposal

Experience: Over 30 years since 1992

Compliance: Ensure all EPA and Pennsylvania DEP requirements are met

Nationwide Network: Serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and across the U.S.

Industry Knowledge: Understand pharmaceuticals, healthcare, universities, manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and all industries

Responsive Service: Prompt, professional responses

Transparent Pricing: Clear pricing with no hidden fees

Safety Focus: Prioritize safety in all operations

Environmental Protection: Committed to protecting Pennsylvania's environment

Let us handle your hazardous waste management so you can focus on your business. Contact us today at (800) 582-4833 or info@hazardouswastedisposal.com.