RCRA Generator Category Calculator

Determine your VSQG, SQG, or LQG status per 40 CFR 262.13 based on monthly waste quantities

Pounds (lb) to Kilograms (kg) Converter
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Note: 1 lb ≈ 0.453592 kg

Monthly Waste Generation (kg)

Enter your generation amounts in kilograms (kg) for each month. The category will calculate automatically.

Month Non-Acute HW (kg) Acute HW (kg) Acute Spill Residue (kg) Category Controlling Rule
Annual Summary & Requirements

Worst-Case Annual Generator Status

None

Enter data above to determine your highest generator category.

Accumulation Limits for your category:

  • Enter data to see applicable limits.
System Self-Tests
Click "Run Self-Tests" to verify calculation logic.

About the RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Category Calculator

Environmental health and safety professionals utilize this calculator to determine their exact EPA regulatory status for hazardous waste generation. By meticulously tracking monthly production limits of non-acute and acute waste streams, you can definitively classify your site as a VSQG, SQG, or LQG. Maintaining the correct RCRA generator category ensures you apply the proper accumulation rules dictated by 40 CFR 262.

How it works

  1. Select your preferred unit of measurement, either pounds or kilograms, to begin the regulatory assessment.
  2. Input the total weight of standard non-acute hazardous waste generated at your facility in a single calendar month.
  3. Input the total weight of acute hazardous waste (such as P-listed chemicals) generated within the same calendar month.
  4. Review the calculated RCRA generator category to understand your specific accumulation time limits and contingency planning obligations.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG)?

A VSQG is a facility that generates 100 kilograms (220 lbs) or less of non-acute hazardous waste, and 1 kg (2.2 lbs) or less of acute hazardous waste in a calendar month.

What triggers Large Quantity Generator (LQG) status?

A facility automatically becomes an LQG if it generates 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs) or more of non-acute hazardous waste, or more than 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of acute hazardous waste in a single calendar month.

Does total accumulation amount affect my generator category?

Yes. If a VSQG accumulates more than 1,000 kg total at any time, it immediately becomes subject to SQG regulations. If an SQG accumulates more than 6,000 kg, it loses its status and must comply with full LQG rules.

Do temporary episodic generation events change my category permanently?

Not necessarily. Under the EPA's episodic generation rule, facilities can experience a planned or unplanned event that temporarily spikes waste generation without permanently changing their standard category, provided they adhere to specific notification conditions.

References