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Connecticut RCRA Hazardous Waste Reporting

Connecticut hazardous waste reporting is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The state program is designed to ensure comprehensive “cradle-to-grave” management of hazardous wastes, while protecting the environment and public health. At the federal level, hazardous waste is governed by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and compliance with both state and federal RCRA regulations is mandatory for facilities that generate and manage hazardous waste above specific thresholds. Connecticut has adopted all hazardous waste regulations established under RCRA, including the biennial reporting requirements

Understanding Connecticut Hazardous Waste/ RCRA Reporting Requirements

Who Needs to Report?

In CT, all generators that are considered large quantity generators in odd-numbered years and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) are required to report biennially. In CT, generator categories vary slightly from federal definitions. A large quantity generator (LQG) is a facility that:

  • Generates 2,200 lbs or more of hazardous waste in a single month, or
  • Generated more than 2.2 lbs of acute hazardous waste in a single month, or 
  • Generated more than 220 lbs of acute hazardous waste spill residue or soil

Facilities engaged in the following activities must also report biennially:

  • Treated, stored, or disposed of RCRA hazardous waste on-site in a waste management unit subject to RCRA permitting requirements

State-Listed Hazardous Waste in Connecticut

CT does not have any state-specific wastes subject to RCRA manifest and reporting requirements and follows federal waste designations and waste codes.

A full list of EPA Hazardous Waste codes can be found here 

  • CT does have special Non-RCRA hazardous wastes. The only requirement for generators of these wastes is to ensure that these wastes are sent to a permitted TSDF. A full list of Connecticut-regulated wastes can be found here

Connecticut Generator Statuses and Requirements

Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQG) Requirements

In CT, facilities that generate less than 220 lbs of hazardous waste and less than 2.2 lbs of acute hazardous waste are considered conditionally exempt small quantity generators (CEQGs). CESQGs are exempt from reporting requirements in CT, but still have regulations to follow to maintain compliance with hazardous waste, including:

  • Waste determination
  • Ensure storage does not exceed 2,200 lbs of hazardous waste or 220 lbs of contaminated soil on-site at any time
  • Store hazardous waste in appropriate containers
  • Only use permitted TSDFs for treatment
  • Manage waste to minimize risk to human health 

Small Quantity Generator (SQG) Requirements

SQGs generate between 220 and 2,200 lbs of hazardous waste and less than 2.2 lbs of acutely hazardous waste per month. SQGs are exempt from state and federal reporting requirements. SQGs must still take steps to ensure compliance, including:

  • Register with the DEEP using RCRA Subtitle C Site Identification form (EPA Form 8700-12) to obtain an EPA number
    • Renotify the state every 4 years by submitting EPA form 8700-12 by September 1. First submissions were due September 2021, and now every 4 years after
  • Waste determination: keep detailed records of how waste determinations are made and keep records for at least 3 years
  • Ensure storage does not exceed 2,200 lbs or occur for longer than180 days 
  • Store hazardous waste in appropriate containers 
    • Conduct weekly inspections of tanks 
    • Develop and maintain a written inspection program
  • Post emergency contact information and procedures for spill responses
  • Provide basic training for employees handling hazardous waste
  • Name an emergency coordinator who is available 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies
  • Only use permitted TSDFs 
  • Use Uniform Waste Manifests for waste shipments
    • Keep copies of manifests for a minimum of 3 years 
    • Provide land disposal restrictions (LDR) for each waste shipment
  • Maintain records for a minimum of 3 years
  • Starting January 22, 2025: register in RCRAInfo and maintain an account to access the federal e-Manifest system

Large Quantity Generator (LQG) Requirements

Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) generate more than 2,2000 lbs per month of hazardous waste or more than 2.2 lbs per month of acutely hazardous waste. LQGs must submit federal biennial reports to the EPA every 2 years. In addition to reporting requirements, LQGs must:

  • Register with DEEP using EPA form 8700-12 to obtain an EPA number
  • Waste determination: Keep detailed records of how waste determinations are made. Keep records for at least 3 years
  • Not store waste on-site for more than 90 days without a permit 
  • Store hazardous waste in appropriate containers 
    • Must conduct weekly inspections of storage areas
    • Develop and maintain a written inspection program
    • Use the words “hazardous waste” on all storage containers 
    • Label containers with accumulation start dates 
  • Use the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest for all waste shipments
    • Use the EPA e-Manifest System
  • Develop a written waste minimization program
  • Submit a Land Disposal Restriction (LDR) Notification with each waste shipment that will be disposed of in a land-based unit
  • Develop and maintain a contingency plan addressing emergency response procedure
    • Provide copies to local emergency responders 
  • Provide formal training to all employees on hazardous waste handling and emergency response within 6 months of hire 
    • Conduct annual refresher training 
    • Maintain training records for 3 years
  • Submit federal biennial hazardous waste reports in even-numbered years

Examples of Facilities Subject to Waste Reporting

Below are examples of common industries in Connecticut and the types of waste generated that may trigger the need to submit a biennial report:

  • Aerospace and defense manufacturing: Spent solvents such as acetone, toluene, and xylene, Ignitable wastes, chromium waste, lead-contaminated waste 
  • Pharmaceutical and biotech facilities: Acutely hazardous pharmaceuticals, ignitable solvents, mercury-containing devices, spent solvents
  • Metal fabrication and machining shops: Cadmium-contaminated waste from welding, chromium waste from metal finishing, wastewater treatment sludge
  • Electronics and semiconductor manufacturing: corrosive etching solutions, cadmium-containing waste, lead waste from soldering and assembly, spent solvents such as toluene
  • Universities and Research Institutions: Ignitable solvents from laboratories, corrosive materials from experiments, reactive chemicals, acutely hazardous lab reagents 
  • Automotive repair and refinishing shops: ignitable wastes such as solvents and degreases, chromium waste from surface finishing, lead-contaminated waste from batteries, spent paint thinners

Hazardous Waste Manifest Requirements for Connecticut Facilities

All shipments of hazardous waste must use hazardous waste manifests for waste shipments. All shipments must use the federal Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (EPA Form 8700-22, or UHWM)

Waste manifests must include:

  • Generator information including name, address, and EPA ID
  • Transporter details including ID numbers and U.S. DOT descriptions
  • TSDF information including name, address, and EPA ID
  • Waste descriptions
    • Name, hazard class, EPA waste codes, quantities 
  • Signatures from generators, transporters, and final receiving facilities
  • Emergency response numbers and emergency spill cleanup procedures 

For Generators:

  • CT encourages the use of the federal e-Manifest system for the submission and tracking of manifests
  • If paper manifests are used, TSDFs upload the final copy to the e-Manifest system. Generators must be registered with the e-Manifest system and able to access electronic manifests during inspections. Starting January 22, 2025, federal regulations will require all SQGs and LQGs to register for the e-Manifest system
  • Paper copies must be stored for at least 3 years
  • Exception reporting updates starting January 22, 2025:
    • If a signed copy of the final manifest has not been submitted to e-Manifest within 45 days of acceptance, LQGs must inquire with the TSDF on the status of the waste
    • If a signed copy has not been submitted within 60 days, LQGs and SQGs must submit an exception report with DEEP
      • Starting December 1, 2025, exception reports must be submitted electronically through e-Manifest 

For Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities:  

  • The UHWM must accompany waste throughout its shipment and treatment process
  • A copy of the signed final manifest must be uploaded to the e-Manifest within 35 days. 
    • Generators can access final manifests through RCRAInfo.
  • Must maintain copies of manifests for a minimum of 3 years.
  • Unmanifested Waste Reports: If a TSDF accepts hazardous waste without a manifest, a report must be submitted to DEEP within 15 days of accepting the waste. This report includes information about the facility, the waste type and quantity, the method of treatment, storage, and disposal, and an explanation of why the waste was unmanifested. By December 1, 2025, unmanifested waste reports must be submitted into e-Manifest within 20 days of accepting the waste.
  • Discrepancy Reports: If a TSDF operator determines a discrepancy in quantities or types of waste, they must first attempt to resolve it with the generator within 15 days of the incident. If it is not resolved within 15 days, TSDFs must submit a report with DEEP detailing the discrepancy, copies of waste manifests, and attempts to resolve the issue.  By December 1, 2025, discrepancy reports must be submitted to eManifest within 20 days of the incident

Common Manifest Errors

  • Missing information: including EPA ID numbers, container counts, and waste codes
  • Inaccurate information: Transposed numbers, incorrect dates, incorrect units of measure for waste quantities.
  • Incorrect waste codes 
  • Failure to include Land disposal restrictions when needed
  • Failure to maintain copies: final manifests must be maintained as paper or electronic copies in the e-Manifest system. Facilities may be required to provide copies of manifests during inspections or demonstrate the ability to access the federal e-Manifest system
    • Starting January 22, 2025, all SQGs and LQGs will be required to register with the federal e-Manifest system

Overview of RCRAInfo

In Connecticut, the RCRAInfo system serves as the platform for submitting biennial hazardous waste reports, ensuring alignment with federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) requirements. This electronic system streamlines reporting by enabling facilities to accurately track hazardous waste generation, storage, and management. RCRAInfo’s standardized format simplifies compliance and reduces errors, while electronic submissions improve efficiency and provide real-time access to critical data for regulatory oversight and emergency planning.

How to Submit a Hazardous Waste Report in RCRAInfo

Here are the key steps for using RCRAInfo Online Reporting system:

  • Go to RCRAInfo and either create a new account or sign in with your existing credentials. 
  • Access the biennial reporting module 
  • Compile hazardous waste data including waste type, quantities generated, handling methods, shipments, and details about disposal facilities 
  • Complete the necessary forms (Federal Form 8700-12, 8700- 13 a/b)
    • Site ID Form: provides contact information and a summary of waste activities for the previous year. This form is required for all facilities, regardless of generator status.
    •  Off-site identification form (OI) form: This form is not required for CT facilities. RCRAInfo may automatically calculate and fill in data on the OI form, but facilities can disregard this data
    • Generation and management (GM form) for each waste stream: describes waste streams generated and how the waste is managed. 
      • Provide federal waste codes, source codes, management methods, waste minimization codes, and waste quantities for each
    • Waste Received (WR Form): If the facility received RCRA hazardous waste from off-site sources 
  • Review and submit your waste reports

Deadlines,Timelines RCRA Reporting Frequency

Biennial Reporting Deadline

Biennial reports are due by March 1st of every even number year regarding information from the previous year. 

Additional Reporting Requirements (additional waste reports)

Episodic generation: CT allows for CESQGs or SQGs to have one episodic event, planned or unplanned, per calendar year. Generators who notify DEEP 30 days before a planned event or 72 hours after an unplanned event may maintain their generator category. Requirements for CESQGs and SQGs experiencing an episodic event include:

  • An active EPA ID 
  • Notify DEEP using EPA form 8700-12 and the Episodic Generator Addendum submitted via myRCRAid
  • Use of a hazardous waste manifest for waste shipments 
  • Appropriate labeling and storage 
  • Conclude the event within 60 days from the start date
  • Maintain records of episodic events for a minimum of 3 years

Tips for Effective RCRA Reporting

Maintain Continuous Records

  • Establish a centralized storage system to facilitate quick and efficient access to essential documents and records. These materials may be required during compliance audits or inspections and can streamline the reporting process. Using electronic storage or digital management software can enhance accessibility and improve data security
  • Perform regular self-audits to verify that records are accurate, complete, and in compliance with current RCRA and Connecticut-specific regulations. Schedule audits quarterly or biannually to review records related to waste generation, storage, and shipment. Additionally, maintain a clear schedule to monitor submission deadlines and ensure timely compliance

Keep Copies of All Submitted Reports

Make copies of all paper forms and securely store them for a minimum of 3 years to stay in compliance in CT

Common Mistakes in RCRA Reporting and How to Avoid Them

Incorrectly Estimating Quantity of Reportable Wastes

Incorrectly reporting waste quantities or generator status can occur due to underreporting in an attempt to avoid Large Quantity Generator (LQG) classification or overreporting caused by data management errors

Tips:

  • Develop standardized reporting checklists to ensure the accuracy of submitted information.
  • Use electronic tracking systems or digital software to automate calculations for waste generation and shipments.
  • Keep accurate and updated logs of waste generation and disposal throughout the year to maintain reliable records

Failure to Report All Hazardous Wastes

Failing to include certain waste types in reporting can occur unintentionally due to factors such as misunderstanding federal regulations, misidentifying waste streams, or not assigning the correct waste codes

Tips:

  • Perform regular waste assessments to ensure accurate classification of all waste types.
  • Update waste determinations periodically to reflect current operations and regulatory changes.
  • Cross-check waste information with disposal facilities to confirm proper classification and handling

Failing to Keep Up-To-Date with Changes in Regulations

Facilities in Connecticut may fall behind on changing regulations due to many reasons, including a lack of dedicated staff to monitor regulatory updates,  the assumption that existing waste management practices are always compliant, or the failure to notice changes from state agencies.

Tips for Staying Compliant:

  • Assign Responsibility: Designate a staff member or team to track hazardous waste regulation updates
  • Utilize Technology: Use software to monitor regulatory changes and receive notifications when changes happen automatically
  • Subscribe to Updates: Stay informed by subscribing to DEEP updates
  • Participate in Industry Associations: Join local and state Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) associations to stay connected and informed

Late and Missed Submissions

Late biennial report submissions in CT can lead to fines, increased inspections, and designations of non-compliance. Ineffective timeline management can lead to missed report submissions. Lacking a centralized compliance center, unclear designation of responsibilities, and insufficient training can contribute to missing deadlines. Failing to submit biennial reports may result in fines of up to $10,000 per day. 

Tips:

  • Create a shared compliance calendar and set reminders well in advance
  • Start compiling hazardous waste data and facility information early (by January at the latest) to avoid last-minute errors
  • Use a centralized digital filing system so data can be easily and readily accessed 

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information herein. If you have further questions, we encourage you to reach out to a compliance expert or the regulating body for the jurisdiction in which you operate.