Universal Waste Disposal Services

Simplified Management & Disposal of Universal Waste for Businesses Nationwide

Universal wastes are common hazardous materials that qualify for streamlined disposal regulations. From batteries and lamps to electronics and mercury devices, EPA's Universal Waste Rule simplifies compliance while ensuring proper disposal. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides expert universal waste management services for businesses nationwide.

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

What is Universal Waste?

Universal waste is a category of hazardous waste that is widely generated and commonly recycled. EPA created the Universal Waste Rule to encourage proper collection and recycling of these materials by reducing regulatory burden while maintaining environmental protection.

EPA-Recognized Universal Wastes:

• Batteries

• Pesticides (recalled or banned)

• Mercury-containing equipment

• Lamps (fluorescent, HID, etc.)

• Aerosol cans (in many states)

• Electronics (in some states)

Benefits of Universal Waste Classification:

• Simplified management requirements

• No manifests required

• Longer accumulation time (one year vs. 90-270 days)

• Reduced paperwork

• Easier compliance

• Encourages recycling

• Lower costs than full hazardous waste management

Still Required:

• Proper labeling

• Safe storage

• Timely disposal

• Use of approved facilities

• Record retention

Types of Universal Waste

Batteries

Covered Battery Types:

Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) Batteries:

• Rechargeable batteries

• Power tools

• Emergency lighting

• Portable electronics

• Contains toxic cadmium

Lithium Batteries:

• Lithium-ion (Li-ion)

• Lithium polymer

• Cell phones, laptops

• Power tools

• Electric vehicle batteries

• Fire hazard - special handling required

Lead-Acid Batteries:

• Car batteries

• Truck batteries

• UPS backup batteries

• Forklift batteries

• Marine batteries

• Contains lead and sulfuric acid

Mercury Batteries:

• Button cells (older types)

• Some hearing aid batteries

• Watch batteries

• Extremely toxic

Other Rechargeable Batteries:

• Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)

• Small sealed lead-acid

• Button cell batteries

Alkaline Batteries:

• Not universal waste federally

• Some states require proper disposal

• Can contain mercury (older batteries)

Why batteries are universal waste:

• Contain heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury)

• Widely generated

• Recyclable materials

• Fire hazards

• Environmental contamination if landfilled

Lamps (Mercury-Containing)

Fluorescent Lamps:

• Linear fluorescent tubes (T12, T8, T5)

• Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)

• U-tube and circular fluorescents

• Contains 5-15 mg mercury per lamp

High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps:

• Metal halide

• High-pressure sodium

• Mercury vapor

• Low-pressure sodium (some types)

• Contains mercury

Other Mercury Lamps:

• Germicidal UV lamps

• Black lights

• Tanning bed lamps

• Neon signs (some types)

• Cold cathode lamps

LED Lamps:

• Not universal waste (no mercury)

• May contain electronic components

• Can be recycled as e-waste

Why lamps are universal waste:

• Contain toxic mercury

• Generated in huge quantities

• Recyclable (glass, metals, phosphors)

• Easy to break and release mercury

• Environmental contamination

Mercury-Containing Equipment

Thermostats:

• Mercury tilt switches

• Wall thermostats (pre-2000s)

• Typically contain 3-4 grams mercury each

Medical Devices:

• Mercury thermometers

• Blood pressure monitors (sphygmomanometers)

• Esophageal dilators

• Laboratory instruments

Instruments & Gauges:

• Mercury switches and relays

• Mercury barometers

• Pressure gauges

• Flow meters

• Float switches

Why mercury equipment is universal waste:

• Highly toxic mercury

• Widely generated

• Mercury can be recycled

• Small quantities per device but many devices

Pesticides

Recalled or Banned Pesticides:

• DDT and other banned organochlorines

• Recalled products

• Suspended or canceled products

• Unused stocks

Waste Pesticides:

• Collected through programs

• From farms, businesses, households

• Old inventory

Why pesticides are universal waste:

• Encourage proper disposal of dangerous materials

• Facilitate collection programs

• Prevent illegal dumping

• Protect public health

Aerosol Cans (State-Specific)

Many states allow aerosol cans as universal waste:

• All types of aerosol cans

• Partially full or "empty"

• Paint, lubricants, cleaners, etc.

States with aerosol universal waste:

• California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and others

Why aerosols are universal waste:

• Widely generated

• Pressurized and potentially hazardous

• Recyclable (steel, contents)

• Simplified management encourages proper disposal

Electronics (State-Specific)

Some states include electronics:

• Computers and laptops

• Monitors and TVs

• Printers and copiers

• Cell phones and tablets

• Electronic equipment

State e-waste programs vary:

• Some universal waste

• Some separate regulations

• Some manufacturer take-back

• Check your state requirements

Why electronics may be universal waste:

• Contain heavy metals and toxics

• Huge quantities generated

• Valuable materials to recover

• Encourage recycling

Universal Waste Regulations

EPA Federal Universal Waste Rule

Key Requirements:

Labeling:

• Mark "Universal Waste - [type]" or "Waste - [type]"

• Examples: "Universal Waste - Batteries", "Waste Lamps"

• Date can be when first item added to container

Accumulation Time:

• One year maximum

• From date first item added

• Much longer than hazardous waste (90-270 days)

Storage:

• Contained to prevent releases

• Protected from weather

• In containers in good condition

• Secured from unauthorized access

No Manifests Required:

• Simplified tracking

• Shipping papers may be needed for transport

• Destination facility records required

Must Send To:

• Universal waste handlers

• Destination facilities

• Recyclers

• Proper disposal facilities

Prohibited:

• Dilution to avoid classification

• Disposal in regular trash

• Burning or incineration (except at proper facilities)

• Discharge to sewers

Handler Categories

Small Quantity Handler of Universal Waste (SQHUW):

• Accumulates <5,000 kg (11,000 lbs) on-site

• Most businesses fall into this category

• Must follow basic universal waste requirements

• No EPA ID number required (federal level)

Large Quantity Handler of Universal Waste (LQHUW):

• Accumulates ≥5,000 kg on-site

• Additional requirements

• Must notify EPA and obtain ID number

• Enhanced tracking and notification

State Regulations

State variations:

• Some states more restrictive

• Some include additional items (aerosols, e-waste)

• Some require shorter accumulation times

• Some mandate recycling

• Some ban landfill disposal

Check your state requirements

Industries Affected

All industries generate universal waste:

• Office buildings (lamps, batteries, electronics)

• Retail stores (lamps, batteries)

• Healthcare (lamps, mercury devices, batteries)

• Manufacturing (all types)

• Hospitality (lamps, batteries, thermostats)

• Government facilities

• Schools and universities

• Warehouses and distribution

Our Universal Waste Services

Battery Collection & Recycling

All battery types:

• Lead-acid battery recycling

• Lithium battery collection (with special handling)

• Ni-Cd battery recycling

• Button cell collection

• Mixed battery collection

• Proper segregation and packaging

Service includes:

• Battery collection containers (pails, drums, gaylords)

• Regular pickup schedule

• Proper packaging for lithium (fire safety)

• Recycling certificates

• Complete documentation

Lamp Recycling

All mercury lamp types:

• Fluorescent tube recycling (all sizes)

• CFL recycling

• HID lamp recycling

• Specialty lamp recycling

Service includes:

• Lamp boxes or drum containers

• Pickup and transportation

• Mercury recovery and recycling

• Glass and metal recycling

• Phosphor powder recovery

• Disposal certificates

Mercury Equipment Collection

All mercury devices:

• Thermostats (participate in TRC program)

• Thermometers

• Switches and relays

• Blood pressure devices

• Other mercury equipment

Service includes:

• Proper containers to prevent breakage

• Mercury recovery and recycling

• Complete documentation

Aerosol Can Disposal

Where allowed as universal waste:

• All aerosol types

• Simplified management

• Recycling when possible

Service includes:

• Proper collection drums

• Regular pickup

• Recycling or disposal

• Documentation

Complete Universal Waste Programs

Comprehensive service:

• All universal waste types

• Single pickup for multiple waste streams

• Regular scheduled service

• Compliance tracking

• Employee training support

• Container supply

• Complete documentation

Consulting & Training

We help with:

• Universal waste program setup

• Compliance assessment

• Staff training

• Container placement

• Labeling assistance

• Record keeping systems

Proper Storage & Management

General Storage Requirements

All universal wastes:

• Store to prevent releases

• Protect from weather if necessary

• Keep in good condition containers

• Secure from unauthorized access

• Separate incompatible materials

Do NOT:

• Mix different universal waste types unnecessarily

• Store with regular trash

• Store near drains

• Allow to deteriorate

• Exceed one year accumulation

Battery Storage

Proper battery storage:

• Store in non-conductive containers

• Separate battery types when possible

• Tape lithium battery terminals (fire prevention)

• Keep dry

• Protect from damage

• Secondary containment for lead-acid

Lithium battery precautions:

• Separate from other batteries

• Tape terminals

• Non-conductive packaging

• No damaged or swollen batteries with others

• Fire extinguisher nearby

Lamp Storage

Proper lamp storage:

• Store in original boxes or lamp boxes

• Keep upright if possible

• Protect from breakage

• Separate from other waste

• Indoor storage preferred

• Label boxes clearly

Broken lamp management:

• Place in sealed container

• Label as broken lamps

• Still universal waste

• Minimize breakage

Mercury Equipment Storage

Proper storage:

• Thermometers in padded containers

• Thermostats upright and protected

• Switches in sealed containers

• Secondary containment recommended

• Label containers

Prevent breakage:

• Proper packaging

• Secure storage location

• Train staff on handling

Labeling Requirements

Required information:

• "Universal Waste - [type]" or "Waste - [type]"

• Date (when first item added)

Examples:

• "Universal Waste - Batteries - 3/15/2024"

• "Waste Lamps - 1/10/2024"

• "Universal Waste - Mercury Thermometers - 6/1/2024"

Optional but helpful:

• Generator name

• Quantity

• Specific type (e.g., "Ni-Cd Batteries")

Record Keeping

Maintain records for 3 years:

• Dates of shipment

• Quantities shipped

• Destination facilities

• Shipping documents

• Recycling certificates

Track accumulation:

• Date first item added to container

• Ensure one-year limit not exceeded

Universal Waste Disposal Costs

Cost Factors:

• Type of universal waste

• Quantity

• Service frequency

• Recycling vs. disposal

• Your location

• Container needs

Typical Pricing:

Batteries:

• Lead-acid batteries: Often FREE recycling (credit for lead)

• Lithium batteries: $2-$5 per pound

• Ni-Cd batteries: $1-$3 per pound

• Button cells: $3-$8 per pound

• Mixed batteries: $1.50-$4 per pound

• Battery collection pail service: $50-$150 per pickup

Lamps:

• Fluorescent tubes: $0.15-$0.50 per linear foot

• CFLs: $0.30-$1.00 each

• HID lamps: $1-$4 each

• 4-foot fluorescent: $0.60-$2.00 each

• 8-foot fluorescent: $1.20-$4.00 each

• Lamp boxes (various sizes): $40-$200 per box

Mercury Equipment:

• Thermostats: $3-$8 each (may be free through TRC)

• Thermometers: $3-$8 each

• Switches: $2-$6 each

• Blood pressure devices: $15-$40 each

Aerosol Cans:

• Per can: $2-$7 each

• Per drum (100-150 cans): $400-$800

• Regular service: $150-$800/month depending on volume

Complete Programs:

• Monthly universal waste pickup: $200-$800/month

• Quarterly pickup: $300-$1,200/quarter

• Annual pickup: $500-$2,000/year

Volume discounts available for large quantities

Call (800) 582-4833 for accurate pricing for your facility

Benefits of Universal Waste Management

Regulatory Benefits

Simplified compliance:

• No manifests required

• Longer accumulation time

• Reduced paperwork

• Easier record keeping

• Less regulatory burden

Still compliant:

• Meets EPA requirements

• Satisfies state regulations

• Proper disposal ensured

• Liability protection

Environmental Benefits

Recycling focus:

• Keeps toxics out of landfills

• Recovers valuable materials

• Reduces mining for new materials

• Prevents environmental contamination

• Protects water and soil

Materials recovered:

• Lead from batteries (95%+ recycled)

• Mercury from lamps and devices

• Glass from lamps

• Metals from batteries and lamps

• Plastics from electronics

Economic Benefits

Cost savings:

• Lower disposal costs than full hazardous waste

• Recycling credits for some materials (lead-acid batteries)

• Reduced compliance costs

• Efficient collection programs

Operational benefits:

• Simplified waste management

• Less staff time for compliance

• Easier employee training

• Consolidated pickups

Common Universal Waste Scenarios

Office Building

A 100,000 sq ft office building replaces 2,000 fluorescent tubes and 500 CFLs annually, plus generates 200 pounds of batteries from UPS systems and employee collection programs. We provide quarterly lamp pickup and semi-annual battery pickup. Cost: $2,500-$4,000/year.

Retail Store Chain

A retail chain with 50 locations needs centralized universal waste management. Each store generates lamps, batteries, and aerosol cans. We provide coordinated service to all locations with consolidated billing and reporting. Cost: $15,000-$25,000/year for all locations.

Manufacturing Facility

A manufacturing plant generates 500 fluorescent lamps quarterly, 1,000 pounds of batteries annually, and 300 aerosol cans monthly. We provide comprehensive universal waste service with monthly aerosol pickup and quarterly lamp/battery pickup. Cost: $8,000-$12,000/year.

School District

A school district with 20 schools needs universal waste management for lamps, batteries, thermostats, and mercury thermometers being removed from science departments. We provide coordinated service district-wide with flexible summer scheduling. Cost: $10,000-$18,000/year.

Hospital

A 400-bed hospital generates lamps, batteries, mercury devices, and aerosol cans. We provide monthly universal waste pickup consolidating all streams to minimize facility disruption. Cost: $12,000-$20,000/year.

Why Choose Us for Universal Waste

Complete Service

All universal waste types in one pickup - lamps, batteries, mercury devices, aerosols, and more.

Regulatory Expertise

We understand EPA universal waste rules and state-specific requirements. We ensure your compliance.

Recycling Focus

We maximize recycling to recover materials and minimize environmental impact.

Convenient Service

Flexible scheduling, container supply, and minimal disruption to your operations.

Competitive Pricing

Volume pricing and consolidated pickups reduce your costs.

Complete Documentation

Recycling certificates, tracking records, and compliance documentation provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between universal waste and hazardous waste? A: Universal waste is a subset of hazardous waste with simplified management requirements to encourage proper disposal and recycling. Less paperwork, longer accumulation time, no manifests required.

Q: Do I need an EPA ID number for universal waste? A: Not at federal level if you're a small quantity handler (<5,000 kg on-site). Some states may require it. Large quantity handlers need EPA ID.

Q: How long can I accumulate universal waste? A: One year from the date the first item is added to a container. Much longer than regular hazardous waste (90-270 days).

Q: Do I need manifests for universal waste? A: No, manifests are not required for universal waste. Shipping papers may be needed for transport, but not formal hazardous waste manifests.

Q: Can I throw batteries in the trash? A: Federal regulations allow some batteries in trash, but many states prohibit it. Best practice is to recycle all batteries through proper programs.

Q: Are LED bulbs universal waste? A: No, LED bulbs don't contain mercury and aren't universal waste. They can often be recycled as electronics but aren't regulated.

Q: What if I mix different battery types? A: It's acceptable to mix battery types in one container, though lithium batteries should be separated or have terminals taped for fire safety.

Q: Can broken lamps still be universal waste? A: Yes, broken lamps remain universal waste. Package them to prevent mercury release and label appropriately.

Q: What about alkaline batteries? A: Alkaline batteries aren't federal universal waste, but some states require proper disposal. Check your state requirements.

Q: How do I know if my state allows aerosol cans as universal waste? A: We can help determine your state's rules. Many states have adopted aerosol universal waste rules, but some haven't.

Q: Can universal waste be landfilled? A: No, universal waste must go to proper recycling or disposal facilities. Many states specifically ban landfilling.

Q: What happens to universal waste after pickup? A: It goes to specialized recycling facilities where materials are recovered (mercury, lead, glass, metals, etc.) or to proper disposal facilities if recycling isn't possible.

Get Started with Universal Waste Service

Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

What to have ready:

• Types of universal waste generated

• Approximate quantities (monthly or annual)

• Current accumulation on-site

• Desired pickup frequency

• Number of locations if multiple

• Any specific concerns or questions

We'll provide:

• Free quote for your universal waste

• Appropriate containers for each waste type

• Proper labels

• Pickup scheduling

• All necessary documentation

• Recycling certificates

• Regulatory compliance guidance

Services available:

• Battery collection & recycling

• Lamp recycling

• Mercury equipment collection

• Aerosol can disposal

• Complete universal waste programs

• Multi-location service

• Flexible scheduling

• Employee training support

Serving businesses nationwide, since 1992 - expert universal waste management with complete regulatory compliance and maximum recycling

Environmental Responsibility: Universal waste management keeps toxic materials out of landfills, recovers valuable resources, and protects our environment. Proper disposal is good business and good environmental stewardship.