Universal Waste

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Some hazardous waste, commonly produced by households and businesses, that is subject to simplified regulations has been categorized as ‘Universal Waste.’ These wastes are regulated under the Universal Waste Rule by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and include specific hazardous materials that pose less risk to the environment and human health when managed properly. These types of wastes identified as Universal Waste include:

1. Fluorescent light bulbs (FLB). Fluorescent light bulbs are classified as a universal waste if they are properly packaged and sent to a recycler. TCU Facilities will provide the boxes necessary for most FLBs on campus. There should be no used FLBs stored in electrical rooms, mechanical rooms, boiler rooms, etc., unless they are properly tagged as “Universal Waste” and dated. They should be placed in closed boxes during storage until they can be transferred to the Facilities warehouse. For more information on FLB disposal, refer to TCEQ regulatory guidance on FLB disposal.
2. Used oil based paint thinners, mineral spirits, naptha, and similar solvents. Such products can be recycled. Do not pour these products down the drain or clean brushes in the sink. Place spent materials into a container no larger than five gallons and prepare it for disposal, labeling the container as "Universal Waste - Paint and Paint-related Waste". For more information on paint waste, refer to TCEQ regulatory guidance on paint waste disposal.
3. Oil-based Excess Paint. The best method for controlling this type of waste is to purchase only what is needed at the time of use. Do not purchase paints (or other products) because of bulk discount prices and a possibility of use in the future. Compatible paints, such as oil-based or water-based, can be placed into five-gallon containers. Oil-based should prepared for disposal by labeling the container as “Universal Waste - Used Paint” and including the date. 
4. Mercury-containing Equipment. This product has also become extremely expensive to dispose. The cost of disposing mercury contaminated waste can be four times as expensive as other types of hazardous waste. Extreme care is needed in the storage, use, and cleanup of spills of this chemical because of the high costs. In the science and medical areas, only store this product in fire cabinets. Use only the amount needed at any point in time. Do not leave large quantities out for extended periods of time. When it comes time to dispose of a mercury containing device, place the item in an unbreakable container that can be sealed to prevent spillage. Label the container as "Mercury Waste" and date. If possible, mercury containing switches, (i.e, a thermostat), should be removed from the electronics. For more information on disposal of mercury-containing equipment, refer to TCEQ Regulatory Guidance.
5. Batteries. This includes batteries containing hazardous materials, such as NiCad, lithium and lead-acid batteries. Normal, contemporary alkaline batteries are not managed under these regulations. Universal waste batteries must be labeled as "Universal Waste - Batteries" to be managed under Universal Waste regulations. 
   

Procedures for Removal of Universal Waste
For guidance on the procedures to follow to ensure waste is disposed of properly, contact the Hazardous Material Safety Manager at 817-257-5395 or safety@tcu.edu.  

Resources & Forms
OSHA Standard 40 CFR Part 273 - Standards for Universal Waste Management
TCEQ Regulatory Guidance - Managing Paint and Paint-Related Waste 
TCEQ Regulatory Guidance - Hazardous Lamps and Mercury-Containing Equipment
30 TAC 335.261 - Universal Waste Rule