Household Medicine/Pharmaceutical Disposal
Households and the General Public:, Many state and local law enforcement agencies, communities, and organizations have established take-back events, mail-back, and other collection programs to collect old, expired, or simply unwanted prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals from households. Medicine take-back programs for disposal are a good way to remove expired, unwanted, or unused medicines from the home and reduce the…, Incineration Facilities - Regulations, Laws, and Recommendations from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA's recommendation that household pharmaceuticals collected by these programs be incinerated. EPA's preference is that they be sent to a permitted hazardous waste combustor, but when that is not feasible, at a minimum they should be sent to a large or small municipal waste combustor. This guidance only applies to the collection and management of household pharmaceuticals and does not apply to…, Contact Information, List of Participating Pharmacies - Consumers also may be able to use a new nationwide program - Dispose My Meds - offered by independent pharmacies. County Sheriff and Police Departments - Check with your sheriff's department to see if a program is available or if a single-day collection event is scheduled. Unwanted Medications Frequent Questions for Pharmaceutical Collection Events/Programs (EPA…Green Purchasing and State Contracts
Environmentally Preferred (Green) Purchasing for State Agencies, Green Purchasing is the procurement of products and services that have a reduced effect on human health and the environment over their life cycle when compared with competing products or services that serve the same purpose. Buying products made from recovered material supports recycling markets by ensuring that the material collected in recycling programs is used again in the manufacture of new…Battery Identification
Batteries are broadly classified into primary and secondary categories. Primary batteries are for one-time use whereas secondary batteries are rechargeable. Both types of batteries are further classified depending on the chemicals they contain. The result – sometimes confusing – is that batteries come in various chemistries, types, and sizes to fit different uses. Different battery types have…, Each of the batteries listed below can be recycled., For more information on how and where, Be Battery Smart - Recycle Right and Safely click here ., Battery Type, Uses, Sizes, FYI, Alkaline and Carbon-Zinc, Single-use Used in alarm clocks, calculators, flashlights, remote controls, radios, and children's toys Include 9-volt, AA, AAA, C, D, and some button cells, FYI:, What’s the difference? Different chemical systems. In general, alkaline batteries are more powerful and last longer in high drain devices. Carbon-Zinc batteries are better for low drain applications and are less expensive., Button and Coin, Button batteries - single-use; coin batteries - rechargeable Used in watches, calculators, keyless entry systems, hearing aids, laser pointers, glucometers, and LED accessories Tiny, shiny, round, silver-colored Button batteries - varying chemistries including silver oxide, alkaline, lithium, and zinc air; coin batteries - alkaline or lithium, FYI:, These small batteries can cause serious injuries if swallowed. Learn more Be Battery Smart - Button and Coin Battery Safety here ., Lithium (Li) Metal, Single-use Used in cameras, watches, remote controls, and handheld games Include AA, AAA, and 9-volt, FYI:, Lithium metal batteries are difficult to distinguish from common alkaline batteries but may have specialized shapes (e.g., button, coin). To identify, look for the word “lithium” on the battery., Lithium-Ion, , (Li-Ion), Rechargeable Used in cell phones, power tools, cameras, laptops, toys, e-cigarettes, appliances, tablets, and e-readers, FYI:, Storing a large amount of energy in a small space, li-ion batteries are more easily damaged and volatile than other batteries. If improperly charged, stored, disposed of, or damaged, li-ion batteries can catch fire or explode. Learn more Be Battery Smart - Lithium-Ion Batteries here ., Lithium Polymer (LiPo), Rechargeable Used in remote control devices (e.g., airplanes, cars, drones) where weight is a factor, Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Rechargeable Used in cordless power tools, remote control airplanes, cars and boats, photographic equipment, flashlights, and toys Include AAA, C, D, and several multi-cell sizes equivalent to 9-volt, Nickel Metal Hydride, , (Ni-MH), Rechargeable Used in cell phones, power tools, cameras, and two-way radios Include AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt, and specialty sizes, Nickel-Zinc, , (Ni-Zn), Rechargeable Used in cameras, wireless keyboards, and other small electronics Include AA and C, Small Sealed Lead Acid (Pb), Rechargeable Used in mobility scooters, children’s toy cars, emergency lighting, and hospital equipment Most commonly 12-voltBe Safe at Home
Battery Recycle Character Image All batteries – both single-use and rechargeable – can be dangerous to your health and home if the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed. The recommendations below, however, focus on rechargeable batteries. Follow these steps to help reduce the risks associated with batteries. Additional safety information for lithium-ion batteries is available here as…, Installation, Purchase batteries and devices that have been certified by UL or another independent safety testing agency. Install properly. If you don't, the battery can overheat. Don’t let children install batteries. Don’t mix old batteries with new or rechargeable batteries with non-rechargeable., Use, Stop using a device if the battery shows signs of damage (e.g., unusual odor, change in color, leaking, hissing, cracking, popping sounds). Don’t let children take battery powered devices to bed. Burns and other injuries may occur if the battery leaks or overheats. Check children’s devices to ensure batteries are installed correctly., Storage, Keep batteries stored in a dry location at room temperature and away from heat, anything flammable, and direct sunlight. Keep batteries out of sight and reach of children. Remove and safely store batteries from devices that you won't use for a long time (e.g., seasonal decorations, old toys). Store expired batteries in a non-metal container until they can be recycled. Tape the terminals of…, Charging, Always use the charger the device came with or one recommended by the manufacturer. Always plug directly into a wall electrical outlet. Place the device or battery charger on a non-flammable surface during charging. Stay away from flammables (e.g., pillows, blankets, sheets, clothing, sofas, curtains). Charge your device at room temperature where you can see it, but not near the primary exit of a…, In case of fire, If a battery fire occurs, go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay outside. “Fire Safe SC: A Community Risk Reduction Program” provides additional information., End-of-life battery management, Remove rechargeable batteries before recycling or disposing of a device. Do not place batteries in your household trash or recycling container. Recycle properly. To learn how and where, visit RecycleHereSC .Button and Coin Battery Safety
Button and Coin battery image Coin-sized and smaller batteries – referred to as button batteries – are commonly found in many household electronics including toys, watches, cameras, games, hearing aids, and even singing or flashing greeting cards. Often overlooked, these flat, round, shiny batteries – hidden in plain sight at home – pose serious health risks for children, particularly toddlers…, If swallowed or placed in the nose or ears, the batteries can cause serious injury or death., A child under 18 visits an emergency room for a battery-related injury every 75 minutes in the United States, according to a recent study. Button batteries were most frequently involved in cases where battery type was identified (85 percent of cases). The study also found that 84 percent of the patients were 5 years old or younger., How to Protect Your Child, Crawling infants, toddlers, and young children often put things in their mouths. Because of this, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of accidents., If you think your child swallowed a battery, seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY., When buying, select lithium coin batteries with safety features such as child-secure packaging and a non-toxic bitter coating designed to discourage swallowing. Store your batteries in a secured container in a safe place, out of sight and reach of children. Know what items in your home contain button batteries and lithium coin batteries, including older children’s toys, calculators, and games.…Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are everywhere. Li-ion batteries – the most popular rechargeable batteries – come in multiple sizes and shapes. They power everything from smart phones, laptops, hand-held power tools, and E-bikes to scooters, toys, and electric cars. All batteries can be hazardous and pose a safety risk. Li-ion batteries – which store a large amount of energy in a small space – are…, Use and storage, Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions., Always buy devices and batteries that are certified by, UL, or another testing laboratory., Handle carefully. Do not throw, drop, or tamper with batteries. Check batteries for signs of damage and don't use any that are swollen, dented, torn, or show other signs of damage or wear. Store your batteries in a safe place, out of sight and reach of children. Keep batteries in a dry location at room temperature. Do not leave them in the sun or in a hot or cold car. Check to make sure batteries…, Never place Li-ion batteries in your household garbage or recycling container., Properly recycle Li-ion batteries. Learn more, here, ., Charging, Always follow the manufacturer's instructions., Do not charge batteries for longer than the manufacturer’s recommendation. Overcharging can cause your battery to overheat, which can lead to fire or explosion. Use the battery, cord, and power adapter that came with the device. Always plug directly into a wall electrical outlet. Never leave a battery charging overnight. When charging, never block your primary way in or out of a room/space.…Be Battery Smart - Recycle Right and Safely
Battery image, Batteries can and should be recycled., Batteries contain metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel, and silver, which can pose a threat to human health and safety as well as the environment. Some batteries (e.g., lithium-ion) also contain cobalt and lithium, which are considered critical minerals, meaning they are essential in our society. When a battery is thrown away, those resources can never be recovered. Improper disposal of…, Where to Properly Recycle Batteries, Many South Carolina counties have household hazardous material collection programs and/or single-day collection events that accept certain types of batteries – both single-use and rechargeable. To determine if your community has access to a program or event, visit Recycle Here SC RecycleHereSC . Rechargeable batteries can be properly recycled at major retailers (e.g., Lowe’s, Best Buy, The Home…, How to Recycle Right, The first rule in managing batteries safely is to, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, . Here are additional tips on preparing batteries for recycling., Collect and sort your batteries by type, (e.g., lithium-ion, alkaline). Put on latex gloves to avoid any possible contact with powder or acid that can burn your skin. Click here for information about identifying battery types., Tape the terminals., Energy and heat can be generated when the terminals of seemingly dead batteries touch. Use clear packing tape to cover the ends, eliminating the possibility of fire., Tape all button or coin shaped batteries and all lithium batteries, whether rechargeable or single use., Store batteries properly., Whether you immediately drop off batteries for recycling or save them for a later trip, it is important to place them in a safe container. Do not place the batteries in a junk drawer or bag – use a plastic or cardboard container., Isolate any damaged batteries., Store them in their own container. When you drop off batteries to be recycled, let staff know.Paint Stripping, Autobody Shops, Surface Coating
Final Regulation (pdf) (This is the final Federal regulation dated 01/09/2008) Fact Sheet (pdf) (This is a detailed fact sheet describing the regulation) Paint Stripping Brief Summary (pdf) (This is a brief summary of the requirements in the regulation for paint stripping operations) Autobody Refinishing Brief Summary (pdf) (This is a brief summary of the requirements in the regulation for…Plating and Polishing
Final Regulation (This is the final Federal regulation) Plating and Polishing EPA Brochure (This is an informative brochure compiled by the EPA) Plating and Polishing Initial Notification (This is EPA's example of an initial notification) Plating and Polishing Notification of Compliance Status (NOCS) (The EPA's example of an NOCS) Plating and Polishing EPA Brief Summary (This is a summary of…The Expedited Review Program
You May Qualify for a Faster Permit Review, The Expedited Review Program (ERP) for Stormwater Permitting became effective on November 1, 2006. The mission and goal of ERP is to have a project reviewed no later than 10 business days after its chosen review date. The projects chosen for the expedited review program will be placed in a separate line from the normal review projects. "Projects located in coastal counties (, Charleston, Berkeley, Beaufort, Colleton, Jasper, Horry, Georgetown, and Dorchester, ) require a consistent coastal zone consistency determination from, SCDES's Bureau of Coastal Management Management, . Legislation (Section 44-1-165 of S.1263) was passed that allows the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (the Department) to pilot an Expedited Review Program (ERP). Applicants desiring consideration for the expedited review program should indicate by checking the box above Item # I on DHEC Form 2617 (7/2006)-, Notice of Intent for discharges from Large and Small Construction Activities, NPDES General Permit SCR100000., For any questions on ERP, or if you are unable to download any of this information, call the Department at 803-898-4300., Expedited Fees, Caution image 0 - 10 Acre Project $5,000.00 10.1 - 50 Acre Project $7,500.00 50.1 Acres and Above $10,000.00 , Stormwater Contacts, cap A list of State Regulators whose primary responsibility involves Stormwater Discharges. , Final Stabilization, tree Information on when a construction site has reached completion status., Expedited Review Standard Operating Procedures, Expedited Review Agreement and Fee Schedule - SCDES 2618, (This form should only be filled out if you are chosen for expedited review.), Expedited Fees, All Owner/Operators will have already paid the normal $125 NPDES fee plus the $100 per disturbed acre fee (with a maximum of $2000). The expedited fee is in addition to the normal permitting fees. The Expedited Review Agreement and Fee Schedule (along with the appropriate fee) must be submitted to the Department no later than the SWPPP Preparer's arrival at 1:00 p.m. on the project's review day., The Expedited Schedule, Expedited Review Timetable, Event, Review Schedule, Attendance, Deadline for project to be considered for ERP Tuesday by 5 PM (#) N/A Random Selection Thursday N/A Notification of Selection to Program Thursday Afternoon N/A Review #1 Review #2 Monday** Tuesday** Department Review Staff Review #1 Meeting Review #2 Meeting Monday @ 1:00(*)(**) Tuesday @ 1:00(*)(**) SWPPP Preparer and Department Review Staff Additional Information Due 48 hours after Review…, (All Requests Must have an administratively complete NOI), * Must have payment and acceptance letter in hand at this time., ** May be pushed back one day due to state holidays., , Important Criteria & Terms, Expedited Review Terms, Term, Definition, Deadline to be Considered, The deadline to be considered for that week's random selection is by 5 PM on Tuesday of each week. The application must be administratively complete to be considered for that week's random selection., Random Selection, The random selection will take place on Thursday and will consist of all projects that indicated they wished to be considered for ERP and met the 5 PM Tuesday deadline for submitting the project., Notification of Selection to Program, The notification will take place by Thursday afternoon. The Project Owner/Operator and/or SWPPP Preparer will be notified. A written letter will be mailed and faxed to the Owner/Operator as well. The Owner/Operator or SWPPP Preparer will have 1 hour to verbally accept or reject their acceptance to the ERP., Review, The review will take place on Monday for Review #1 and Tuesday for Review #2. The review staff will have until 1:00 p.m. to review the project and have a review letter drafted for the SWPPP Preparer., Review Meeting*, The review meeting is always scheduled at 1:00 p.m. on the day of the review. The SWPPP Preparer must be present. The project Owner/Operator can attend if he/she desires. The meeting cannot begin until payment is presented to cover the expedited review. At this time, the SWPPP Preparer will also deliver the letter accepting the terms of the Standard Operating Procedures., Additional Information Meeting(s), If an additional meeting or additional information is needed, the Owner/Operator and/or SWPPP Preparer must have all information to the Department within 24 hours. It will be assumed that all consultants must be present unless the Department notifies the Owner/Operator the consultant is not needed. This meeting follows the same format as the Review Meeting. *At the review meeting, the Division…, stormwaterexp@des.sc.gov, .