Hazardous Waste Disposal for Small Businesses: A Compliance Checklist

July 28, 2025

Small businesses may not produce hazardous waste in large quantities, but they are still subject to strict environmental regulations. If your company generates waste that is flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic, you may be classified as a small quantity generator hazardous waste (SQG) facility. Understanding your responsibilities is key to staying compliant and avoiding costly violations.

Understanding SQG vs. LQG

The SQG vs LQG distinction is based on the amount of hazardous waste your business produces:

• Small Quantity Generator (SQG): Generates between 100 kg and 1,000 kg of hazardous waste per month.
• Large Quantity Generator (LQG): Produces more than 1,000 kg per month.

If your business qualifies as an SQG, you're subject to fewer regulatory requirements than LQGs—but you’re still responsible for proper waste management, recordkeeping, and disposal practices.

For more on classification, check out What is a Hazardous Waste Generator?

Small Business Hazardous Waste Disposal Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure compliance with small quantity generator requirements:

• Determine Generator Status: Evaluate your monthly hazardous waste output.
• Identify Waste Types: Use EPA criteria to determine if your waste qualifies as hazardous.
• Label Properly: All containers must be labeled with “Hazardous Waste” and include accumulation start dates.
• Store Waste Safely: Keep containers closed, in good condition, and stored away from incompatible materials.
• Limit Accumulation: SQGs may store hazardous waste for up to 180 days (or 270 if the facility is over 200 miles from a treatment facility).
• Maintain Records: Retain manifests, training records, and inspection logs.
• Employee Training: Train staff on proper handling, labeling, and emergency response.
• Use Authorized Transporters: Produces more than 1,000 kg per month.
• Prepare for Inspections: Be familiar with the EPA hazardous waste inspection checklist to ensure readiness.

Watch for Common Compliance Mistakes

Even small businesses can face fines for mismanagement of hazardous materials. Improper labeling, storing incompatible wastes together, or ignoring universal waste requirements can trigger violations. For more insight, read our article on EPA Universal Waste Regulations.

TransChem Environmental: Compliance Made Simple

Navigating the regulations for small business hazardous waste disposal can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. TransChem Environmental provides expert services to help SQGs meet their obligations safely and affordably. From waste profiling and transportation to training and documentation, they offer complete support for small businesses handling hazardous materials.

Let TransChem handle your waste—so you can focus on running your business.