Carnegie Mellon University
Enterprise Risk Management  ›  Environmental Health & Safety  ›  Regulated Waste Management  ›  Universal Waste

Universal Waste

Universal wastes are wastes that meet the regulatory definition of hazardous waste but are managed under special, tailored regulations found in  Pennsylvania 25 Pa. Code Chapter 266b and the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR Part 273). The Universal Waste regulations were designed to simplify and reduce the cost of recycling for these commonly produced wastes. EHS manages universal waste to ensure proper recycling and/or disposal of these materials. The seven types of universal waste include:

  • Aerosol Cans
  • Batteries (Lithium, NiCad, Lead Acid)
  • Lamps
  • Mercury-Containing Equipment
  • Oil Based Finishes
  • Pesticides
  • Photographic Solutions

Storage

Waste should be stored in a manner that prevents discharge into the environment. Use proper containment—non-leaking, compatible containers. For example, rechargeable lead acid batteries should be stored so that acids will not leak and enter the environment. Lamps should be protected from breakage and exposure to the environment. Segregate universal waste in distinct areas and have spill kits readily available to deal with accidental spills (mercury-containing devices). Accumulate universal waste for no longer than six months.

Labeling

Labeling of all Universal Waste is required immediately when stored. Use proper labeling and markings. Labels must include the following words:

  • Universal Waste
  • Waste description
  • The date first stored.

Labels must be placed on each waste item or the container holding multiple of the same items. Labels are available from the Environmental Health and Safety Office.

Battery Recycling

Proper management of waste batteries is required by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulation for “universal waste,” which includes:

  • lead-acid
  • lithium-metal
  • lithium-ion
  • nickel-cadmium (as well as other metal halide) and rechargeable batteries

Universal-waste batteries should follow the requirements of the EHS Chemical Waste Management program, including taping the battery terminals to ensure safe transit.

While Alkaline Batteries are not defined as Universal Waste, recycling is recommended as a green best practice. Alkaline batteries should be managed through the recycling kiosks located in common areas on campus. Your department may request a kiosk from the Carnegie Mellon Green Practices Committee.

Recycling is intended for waste batteries generated on campus, or from university-related activities, and helps with environmental sustainability by diverting recyclable materials from the landfill.

Waste Pickup

Waste pickups occur biweekly on Tuesdays at the point of collection or generation. If you have any questions regarding the Battery Recycling Program, contact safety@andrew.cmu.edu.

At CMU, managing wastes under universal waste regulations helps to encourage the collection, proper recycling, treatment, and disposal of these wastes. In addition, it reduces the quantity of waste going to landfills or incinerators and helps to reduce environmental impacts. Thank you for your cooperation.

Helpful Links