Hazardous and Universal Waste Management

University at Albany's Hazardous and Universal Waste Policy is designed to ensure that every effort is made to minmize the generation of hazardous and universal waste and that all waste is properly managed and disposed of in accordance wth all applicable federal, state and local regulations.

Hazardous Waste Policy

"Hazardous Waste" is defined under federal law as a chemical waste that is listed by the Environmental Protection Agency as hazardous or exhibits one or more of the following characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity and toxicity. The Federal Resource and Recovery Act (RCRA) was established in 1976 to protect human health and the environment from improper management of hazardous waste. This policy doesn't include radioactive material, biological waste or chemicals that are not spent, out-of-date or unwanted.

Hazardous Waste can come in many shapes and forms, including liquids, solids, sludge or compressed gas. They can be byproducts of laboratory experiments or discarded commercial products, such as cleaning fluids or pesticides. Proper management and disposal is essential to protect human health and the environment. Federal laws have established guidelines for the proper handling, processing, transporting and disposing of wastes. The University, induvidual researchers, employees and students can be held liable for violations of these laws.

• Hazardous Waste Disposal Program
• Chemical Hygiene Plan
• Hazardous Waste Training
• Hazardous Waste Flow Chart

All Hazardous Waste is handled by the Office of Environmental Health & Safety. Please Call 442- 3495 with any questions. To schedule a waste Pick -Up call or E-Mail the Office.

Universal Waste Disposal Policy

Universal Waste is a hazardous waste that is managed under streamlined requirements to encourage collection, recycling and disposal of these wastes. The following waste streams are considered Universal Wastes and have specific handling and labeling requirements at the University at Albany.

• Flourescent Light Tubes
• Batteries
  • +University Battery Recycling Locations (pdf)
• Mercury Containing Items
• Computer and Electronic Equipment

The rules governing Universal Waste are mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency RCRA Act (40 CFR Part 273) and also by N.Y.S. Department of Environmental Conservation (6 NYCRR Subpart 374-3). The University at Albany incorporates these standards into their Universal Waste Disposal Policy & Guidelines.

Please call the Office of Environmental Health & Safety, 442-3495, with any question regarding Universal Waste or to schedule a pick-up.

Some Useful Links:

• Sterno Fuel Use Policy

• Managing Household Hazardous Waste

• NYS Rechargeable Battery Recycling Law

• How to Recycle Empty Balloon-Time Helium Tanks