The
Hazardous Waste Section has three different branches.
The Programs Branch
assists other branches with overall program
performance and provides customers with informational, regulatory and technical assistance.
The Technical Resource Unit reviews and implements financial assurance, prepares and delivers
enforcement orders, coordinates appeals, assists in waste determinations and handles special
projects. The Data Management and Program Support Unit prepares rules and handles authorization
issues. We also manage the central file system, administer the section’s budgets and grants
and manage data. In addition to billing and collecting hazardous waste fees, we also implement
and maintain the RCRA data system and the Biennial Reporting System.
The Facility Management Branch issues operating and post-closure
permits and provides oversight for facilities that must investigate and clean up hazardous
waste releases to the environment. We review facility applications, plans and reports to ensure
the facility meets regulatory and technical standards. Continual facility compliance is ensured
through technical assistance and permit maintenance. We also recommend to the section chief
whether to issue or deny operating and post-closure permits. Research, Development &
Demonstration permits, in addition to emergency permits, are issued as needed.
The Compliance Branch has one primary purpose: to protect and
safeguard public health and the environment by ensuring industry compliance with North Carolina’s
Hazardous Waste Management Rules. Services offered include comprehensive evaluation of on-site
waste streams, hazardous waste management practices including waste minimization and recordkeeping
for all generators, transporters and treatment, storage and disposal facilities. We also perform
case development audits at non-notifier sites which have the
potential to lead to criminal investigations and make technical
assistance visits to provide regulatory support for a particular
initiative, regulation or waste stream. Our education program
provides the knowledge and ability to appropriately manage their
hazardous waste. Generator education courses and associated
seminars are conducted annually. Our enforcement program ranges
from Ticket Notice of Violations to Administrative Orders with
penalties. We also provide direction and technical support during
emergency response situations and respond to hazardous waste
complaints arising from manufacturing practices, criminal activity
and/or accidental releases by businesses and homeowners.
Legal Basis for the NC
Hazardous Waste Section
The Hazardous Waste Section of the Division of Waste Management administers the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) program for the State of North Carolina under the statutory authority of the
North Carolina Solid Waste Management Act, N.C.G.S. 130A Article 9 and the Rules codified at 15A NCAC 13A.
The Rules incorporate the federal RCRA requirements by reference in accordance with
N.C.G.S. 150B-21.6. The Act and the Rules define hazardous waste, establish a management system for that waste from generation to final
destination, require registration and reporting by generators, and establish permitting procedures for hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facilities. The Section is responsible for educating, inspecting, permitting and assisting the regulated universe of hazardous waste generators and management facilities. Protection of public health and the environment through waste reduction, sound recycling methods, safe management practices, and proper disposal as a last resort is the mission of the Section. |
