What is the Solvent Wiper Rule?
The EPA’s Solvent Contaminated Wipes Rule went into effect in 2014 and is commonly known as the “EPA Wipes Rule”. This rule allows for non-hazardous classification for rags or wipers used with common industrial solvents. The final rule summary provides the basics but Closed Loop Recycling can help guide you through this new regulation, allowing you to save time, money and loads of paperwork.
Is My Facility Applicable?
29 states have fully adopted the EPA’s ruling. Another 13 have provisional rulings to allow facilities to utilize the spirit of the new ruling. Only 8 states have neither adopted or authorized the ruling. This EPA map dives deeper into each state.
Only rags and wipers are applicable for this rule, not other absorbent products like mats and pads. Closed Loop Recycling’s low lint wipers, shop towels and cotton t-rags can be used within the rule framework. Wipes containing one or more F001-F005 listed solvents listed in § 261.31 or the corresponding P- or U- listed solvents found in § 261.33, including:
- Acetone
- Isobutyl alcohol
- Benzene
- Methanol
- n-Butanol
- Methyl ethyl ketone
- Chlorobenzene
- Methyl isobutyl ketone
- Creosols
- Methylene chloride
- Cyclohexanone
- Tetrachloroethylene
- 1,2-Dichlorobenzene
- Toluene
- Ethyl acetate
- 1,1,2- Trichloroethane
- Ethyl benzene
- Trichloroethylene (*For reusable wipes only.)
- 2-Ethoxyethanol
- Xylenes
How Could Closed Loop Recycling Help Me Implement?
CLR will not only provide the wiper or rag material but also manage the specific EPA rules for solvent wipes, including:
- Proper signage on container
- 180 day accumulation limit
- No free liquids
- Proper Documentation