Applicable Regulations
40 CFR Part 279. 40 CFR Part 261, Subpart D.
State of Michigan Act 451 Part 121.
Overview of Procedure
Used engine oil is generated during
the normal periodic preventive maintenance services conducted on fleet vehicles owned by
the U-M. While a considerable amount of non-recyclable waste is created by way of soiled
rags, the majority of the used oil is collected for recycling. Materials contaminated with
used oil, but cleared of the used oil to such an extent that free flowing oil is not
observed, are not subject to Part 279 unless they are burned for energy recovery.
Waste
Minimization Procedure
Two 500-gallon used oil
tanks have been installed to collect used oil generated during vehicle and equipment
maintenance and repair activities. The used oil is captured in open containers when it is
drained from the engine, and transferred to one of several collection point basins located
around the maintenance garages. The basins are drained through a vacuum line system and
transported to one of the large storage tanks. The vacuum collection system used to
transfer the used oil to the storage tanks helps minimize spills. The used oil is then
pumped out of the tanks into a tanker truck and transported off-site for recycling by a
local vender.
Known
Limitations
Used engine oil contaminated with
fuel or other non-oil engine fluids cannot be recycled and must be disposed of as waste.
Oil soaked rags and other miscellaneous materials that are contaminated with oil during
the maintenance or repair operation must be disposed of as waste.
In addition, used oil containing more
than 1,000 parts per million total halogens is presumed to be a hazardous waste because it
has been mixed with a halogenated hazardous waste listed in Subpart D of Part 261.
Safety
& Health Precautions/Personal Protective Equipment
Follow all applicable
safety and health protocols and regulations as established by your institution.
Benefits
Generation of waste oil is
minimized. Recycling reduces waste disposal cost and the paperwork associated with it.
Disadvantages
None known.
Project
Related Costs
Approximate annual cost of
recycling used oil: $400.
Approximate annual cost if used oil was
disposed of as Act 451 Part 121 Regulated Material: $12,000. |
