Transport, Packaging and Disposal of Asbestos Waste
What this domain tests
This domain tests the final link in the abatement chain: how RACM and asbestos-contaminated debris are wetted, bagged, labeled, manifested, transported, and landfilled. Delaware's solid waste and air-quality programs apply, along with the federal NESHAP waste-handling requirements.
Core rules and concepts
- Packaging: Waste must be wet to control dust and placed in leak-tight, sealed containers. Bags must be sturdy, not overfilled, and closed so no visible dust escapes. Double bagging is common practice but does not excuse a leaking inner bag.
- Labeling: Each container must carry the required OSHA warning label and generator information, including the name and address of the waste generator, the quantity, and the date. Labels must remain legible.
- Storage and transport: Store waste in a secure area; do not compact friable waste or use open dumpsters. Transport by a properly permitted hauler to a landfill permitted to accept asbestos waste.
- Manifesting: Use a waste shipment record that identifies the generator, transporter, disposal site, quantity, and dates. Retain records for the required period; federal NESHAP requires waste shipment records for at least 2 years.
- Disposal: The landfill must cover asbestos waste promptly and handle it so there are no visible emissions. Disposal in an unpermitted landfill or as ordinary trash is prohibited.
Worked example
A crew fills 40 bags with pipe insulation. The bags are wet and sealed, but the labels show only “Caution: Asbestos.” The manifest lists the generator and transporter but not the permitted disposal facility. At the landfill, the load is rejected. The correct fix is to relabel each bag with the OSHA warning and generator/date information, complete the waste shipment record with the disposal site, and confirm the landfill is permitted for asbestos. The load must not be dumped or re-bagged in an open area.
Traps that cost marks
- Using ordinary trash bags or overfilled bags that rupture.
- Labeling only the truck or pallet instead of each container.
- Treating nonfriable waste as ordinary debris after it has been broken or cut.
- Shipping without a complete waste shipment record.
- Assuming any landfill can accept asbestos waste.