ECAR Center
About ECAR Tour News What's New Compliance FAQs
Pollution Prevention Ask ECAR Calendar Contact Us Links Home


Auto Recycling Plain Language Guide to Regulations
Solid/Hazardous Waste Management


1. How to Comply. Determine Your Generator Category (CESQG, SQG, LQG)

Knowing your waste category is important because it can affect which regulations apply to your facility.

EPA defines three categories of hazardous waste generators based upon the quantity of hazardous waste they generate per month:

  1. Conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CESQGs), which generate less than 220 lbs. (100 kg) per month.
  2. Small quantity generators (SQGs), which generate between 220 lbs. (100 kg) and 2,200 (1,000 kg) per month.
  3. Large quantity generators (LQGs), which generate more than 2,200 lbs. (1,000 kg) per month.
Some RCRA and state rules are the same for all categories and in other cases the rules vary. In this plain language guide, we point out significant differences in the rules that affect auto recycling facilities.

Depending on your business, you might be regulated under different rules at different times. If, for example, you generate less than 220 lbs. (100 kg) of hazardous waste during the month of June, you would be considered a CESQG for June and your June waste would be subject to the hazardous waste management requirements for CESQGs. If, in July, you generate between 220 and 2,200 lbs. (100 kg to 1,000 kg) of hazardous waste, your generator status would change, and you would be considered an SQG for July. Your July waste would then be subject to the management requirements for SQGs.

*TIP: In many cases, small businesses that fall into different generator categories at different times choose to satisfy the more stringent requirements to simplify compliance.

Check HERE to find out what you measure to determine your generator category.

 

Automotive Recyclers Association