Businesses in Oregon are responsible for managing their own hazardous waste and are subject to rules from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. The regulations vary depending on how much hazardous waste is generated. To help you understand the regulations that apply to your business, the Environmental Protection Agency has created some guidelines. The hazardous waste generators categories are as follows: very small quantity generators (VSQGs) generate less than 220 pounds per month, small quantity generators (SQGs) generate between 220 pounds and 2,200 pounds per month, and large quantity generators (LQGs) generate more than 2,200 pounds per month.
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Tips for storage, recycling and disposal
- Avoid stockpiling hazardous waste: it is dangerous and can have serious consequences, such as spills and chemical reactions.
- Inspect and store containers safely: only use storage containers that are compatible with the waste inside. Label all storage containers and follow storage requirements.
- Empty containers may be considered hazardous waste and be prepared to leave containers at disposal location.
Recycling these items is often more cost effective than disposal. See below for recycling options for specific materials and products. Always call ahead as these options are subject to change without notice, and additional rules or restrictions may apply. Fees apply unless otherwise stated.
Local or mail-back recycling and disposal options
- Aerosols: Mail-in options: Waste Management, Republic Services
- Batteries: Mail-in options: The Battery Network, Cirba Solutions, Clean Earth, TerraCycle, Waste Management.
- Construction & demolition debris: GreenWay
- Electronics (computers, monitors, mice, keyboards, printers, tv, tablets): Drop-off at Columbia County Transfer Station, Goodwill Scappoose or call for pickup services
- Lights/lamps: Waste Management
- Mercury: Waste Management
- Motor oil: NAPA, O'Reilly Auto Parts, ORRCO
- Paint (drop off for free): Sherwin Williams (10 gallons per visit), Ace Hardware (10 gallons per visit), Vernonia Hardware and Supply (200 gallons per visit) or email info@paint.org or fill out the PaintCare form for free large volume (+100 gallons) pickups
- Pesticides (free collection events): Oregon Department of Agriculture provides free pesticide collection events
- Pharmaceutical waste: Waste Management, Stericycle
- Printer cartridges: Waste Management
- Sharps/syringes: Stericycle, BD Sharps Disposal, Clean Harbors, Republic Services, Sharps Assure, Waste Management
- Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors: Clean Earth