FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Universal Waste?
Universal wastes are certain hazardous wastes that are universally generated in large quantities by various facilities but present a limited hazard. Universal wastes are exempt from the hazardous waste regulations, but must still be managed separately from general trash.
Why do we have to recycle?
The exposure to toxic chemicals, like mercury, lead, cadmium, etc. can cause chronic or acute illness. If these chemicals are released into the environment they can cause ecological damage.
LAMPS - Hazardous waste regulations prohibit businesses from disposing of waste lamps and light-bulbs in sanitary landfills. While manufacturers may claim that "low-mercury" lamps can be dumped in a landfill, the truth is that your liability for this mercury never ends unless you recycle these mercury containing lamps.
ELECTRONICS - Waste monitors and computer electronics contain toxic heavy metals and may be hazardous waste.
BATTERIES - Batteries, in particular those containing silver, cadmium, lead, or acids have the potential to be hazardous waste.
BALLAST - PCB ballast are regulated under the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) and CERCLA (also known as Superfund). Generator of PCB containing ballast may incur Superfund liability by disposing of PCB ballast in a dumpster of landfill.
How long will it take to get our materials picked up?
Typically, from the time you put in a request it can take a week or two to get scheduled depending on your location. If needed, there is always the option to use a common carrier to get your materials picked up or delivered faster.
How can I tell if my ballast is PCB or non-PCB?
Non-PCB ballast typically have some sort of notation on the label stating "no PCB's" or "does not contain PCB's." Ballast that do contain PCB's are usually older with missing or illegible labels. Typically anything manufactured in 1979 or earlier will be PCB containing. When in doubt, assume the ballast is PCB.
What does it cost?
What LRI charges will vary based on the quantity of the material your have, as well as the location of the pick up. If you are checking with different recyclers for pricing, keep in mind that most recyclers charge a separate "pick-up" charge in addition to the charge for processing your materials. Some of these charge can be quite large, and you should insist of receiving a specific dollar amount for this charge at the time of the quote.