Conquer the CHMM Challenge 2025 – Master Hazardous Materials Like a Pro!

The four main categories of hazardous waste according to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) include listed wastes, characteristic wastes, mixed wastes, and universal wastes.

Listed wastes refer to specific types of waste that are identified and published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under four categories: F, K, P, and U listings, which categorize wastes based on their source or composition.

Characteristic wastes are identified by their properties, which can exhibit hazardous characteristics such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. These characteristics help determine whether the waste poses a risk to health and the environment.

Mixed wastes contain both radioactive waste and hazardous waste, which complicates their management and disposal due to the regulations governing both types of waste.

Universal wastes are a special category that includes widely produced hazardous wastes, such as batteries, pesticides, and certain types of bulbs. This category is designed to streamline the management of these common wastes, making it easier for generators to comply with regulations.

Understanding these categories is essential for professionals dealing with hazardous materials to ensure proper handling, treatment, and disposal in compliance with federal regulations.