Do these regulations apply to my operation? 

These regulations address both reusable (laundry service) and disposable solvent-contaminated rags.  40 CFR 261.4(a)(26) addresses solvent-contaminated wipes that will be cleaned (laundered) and reused while 40 CFR 261.4(b)(18) addresses solvent-contaminated wipes destined for disposal.  

A solvent-contaminated wipe is defined as shop towel, rag, pad, or swab made of wood pulp, fabric, cotton, polyester blends, or other material that after use or after cleaning up a spill, contains a solvent that would be considered hazardous waste either because it is listed in the hazardous waste regulations, or because it exhibits the characteristic of ignitability.

Solvent-contaminated wipes do not include wipes contaminated with hazardous waste other than solvents, or that exhibit the characteristic of toxicity, corrosivity, or reactivity due to contaminants other than solvents.

Solvent-contaminated wipes sent for cleaning (laundry service wipes)

40 CFR 261.4(a)(26) states solvent-contaminated wipes that are sent for cleaning and reuse are not considered solid wastes (and therefore not hazardous wastes) from the point of generation provide that:

  • Accumulation, storage and transportation are conducted in non-leaking and sealed containers.
  • The containers are clearly labeled “Excluded Solvent-Contaminated Wipes.”
  • On-site accumulation does not exceed 180 days.
  • The wipes/containers contain no free liquids prior to transport.  (Recovered free liquids, if any, must be managed in accordance with other applicable 40 CFR regulations).
  • The wipes are sent to a laundry or dry cleaner whose discharge, if any, is regulated under 301, 307 and/or 402 of the Clean Water Act.
  • The generator maintains:
    • The name and address of the laundry or dry cleaner receiving the wipes
    • Documentation that the 180-day accumulation time limit is being met
    • A description of the process used to ensure the wipes contain no free liquids at the time of transportation for disposal.

Solvent-contaminated wipes destined for disposal

40 CFR 261.4(b)(18) states solvent-contaminated wipes (except for those that are contaminated with trichloroethylene) that are sent for disposal are not hazardous wastes from the point of generation provided that:

  • Accumulation, storage and transportation are conducted in non-leaking and sealed containers.
  • The containers are clearly labeled “Excluded Solvent-Contaminated Wipes.”
  • On-site accumulation does not exceed 180 days.
  • The wipes/containers contain no free liquids prior to transport.  (Recovered free liquids, if any, must be managed in accordance with other applicable 40 CFR regulations).
  • Disposal is accomplished at:
    • A municipal solid waste landfill regulated under 40 CFR 258 or a hazardous waste landfill regulated under 40 CFR 264 or 265 or
    • A municipal waste incinerator or other combustion unit regulated under Section 129 of the Clean Air Act and/or 40 CFR 264, 265 or 266.
  • The generator maintains:
    • The name and address of the landfill or combustion unit receiving the wipes.
    • Documentation that the 180-day accumulation time limit is being met.
    • A description of the process used to ensure the wipes contain no free liquids at the time of transportation for disposal.

What are the benefits of using the Solvent-Contaminated Wipes Rule?

The solvent-contaminated wipes rule eases the regulatory burden and associated costs for compliant management of applicable wipes.