RCRA - STORAGE/DISPOSAL > Overview

Mixed waste is a waste that is a hazardous waste, as defined by RCRA that also contains radioactive material. Mixed wastes are regulated by the EPA under RCRA and under the Atomic Energy Act (AEA). The radioactive aspects of the waste are regulated by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The most likely source of mixed wastes in laboratories is liquid scintillation waste that contains radioactive isotopes and organic solvents. Once a waste is determined to be a mixed waste, it must be handled in accordance with both NRC radioactive waste and EPA hazardous waste regulations. The requirements of the EPA and the NRC are generally consistent and compatible. However, there are provisions within RCRA that allow the NRC regulations to take precedence if there is a conflict between the two sets of regulations.

The EPA has allowed for an exemption of certain low-level mixed wastes (LLMW) and naturally occurring and/or accelerator-produced radioactive material (NARM) from RCRA storage and disposal requirements. The wastes must be generated under a single NRC license, meet certain specified conditions and be stored and/or treated in a separate tank or container. While the waste may be exempt from RCRA hazardous waste requirements they are still subject to all NRC regulations that relate to low-level radioactive waste.

Continue on to the expanded section of this EVC activity to learn more about mixed wastes.