How much do you know about RCRA inspections? By law, the U.S. EPA and other RCRA-authorized agencies can enter your premises, examine records, and take samples if you handle hazardous wastes. Don’t get caught unprepared.
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The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Section 3007, authorizes a representative of the U.S. EPA or a RCRA-authorized state to enter any premises where hazardous waste is handled to inspect the facility, examine records, and take samples of the wastes. The Department of Transportation may participate where hazardous waste transporters are involved.
All hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) must be inspected at least once every 2 years. Facilities may also be inspected at any time if the EPA or the state has reason to suspect that a violation has occurred, and may be chosen also for an inspection when specific information is needed to support the development of RCRA regulations and to track program progress and accomplishments. Inspections may be conducted by the EPA, an authorized state, or both, with one having overall responsibility for conducting the inspection. The inspection may include a formal visit to the facility, a review of records, taking of samples, and observation of operations. Read more.