What Does the Law Require?

It is the responsibility of the business owner to properly manage all toxic materials that are used and/or stored on site. Proper management of toxic materials ensures a safe work place and protects the environment from possible contamination.

Fluorescent bulbs are considered a hazardous waste and cannot be deposited in the trash. Federal and state laws and regulations require the proper management of hazardous wastes generated by businesses and institutions. Businesses that recover fluorescent bulbs are eligible for reduced environmental regulatory requirements and environmental liability that may be associated with the improper disposal of hazardous wastes.

Rechargeable batteries and electronic equipment such as CRTs, computers, fax machines, cordless phones, etc. also contain toxic materials and should be disposed of properly.

The links below provide more detailed information on the federal and state rules and regulations that apply to toxic material management and disposal.

For more specific information concerning the laws that regulate the disposal and handling of toxic materials in Virginia, please visit the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality’s website at www.deq.state.va.us/waste

Other helpful Virginia DEQ Sites

For more information on federal regulations concerning hazardous materials, visit the US Environmental Protection Agency’s website at www.epa.gov/region5/defs/html/rcra.htm

Other helpful EPA Sites: