Regarding hazardous waste classes, 1–8 is relatively easy to identify since the materials are grouped by the hazardous conditions they create. But class 9 hazardous waste consists of everything else that doesn’t fit into one of those categories.
Because Resource Conservation and Recovery Act regulations are so strict, it’s odd that class 9 hazardous waste is such a collection of miscellaneous products and chemicals.
To better understand class 9 hazardous waste, what it is, and how to dispose of it, read our guide below.
What is Class 9 Hazardous Waste?
Class 9 hazardous waste is labeled “Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials,” which means this is a catch–all category for the hazardous waste (and some not-so-hazardous) that doesn’t fit into the other waste categories.
This class features a wide range of potential wastes including but not limited to asbestos, airbag inflators, and first aid kits. No hazardous waste in any of the previous eight categories fits within class 9.
Within class 9’s definition, you’ll find the following text: “Any material which has an anesthetic, noxious or other similar property which could cause extreme annoyance or discomfort to a flight crew member so as to prevent the correct performance of assigned duties.”
That means the material must be extremely annoying or uncomfortable for flight crew members aboard the aircraft (and only the aircraft). If you transport these materials via vehicle, they would not be considered hazardous under this condition.
Common Examples of Class 9 Hazardous Waste
Ammonium nitrate-based fertilizers: commonly used in agriculture, are classified as class 9 hazardous waste due to their potential for explosion and release of harmful gasses if mishandled or stored improperly.
Asbestos: a fibrous mineral once widely used in construction and insulation, is classified as class 9 hazardous waste due to its carcinogenic nature.
Battery-powered vehicles or Battery-powered equipment: electric cars or electric tools can be considered class 9 hazardous waste due to hazardous chemicals in their batteries.
Delay electric igniter: used in pyrotechnics and fireworks.
Carbon dioxide, solid or Dry ice: While carbon dioxide (CO2) is a naturally occurring gas, solid CO2 or dry ice is classified as class 9 hazardous waste due to its extremely low temperatures. Improper handling can lead to frostbite and asphyxiation risks.
Chemical kit: Chemical kits containing various hazardous substances, such as acids, bases, and reactive compounds, are classified as class 9 hazardous waste.
Cotton: if contaminated with hazardous chemicals or substances during industrial processes, contaminated cotton waste poses risks to human health and the environment.
First aid kit: While first aid kits may not be hazardous waste, specific items within them, such as expired medications or sharps (needles), fall under class 9 hazardous waste.
Life-saving appliances: Life-saving appliances, such as inflatable life rafts or life jackets containing gas cylinders, are classified as class 9 hazardous waste due to their compressed gases.
Self-defense spray: Self-defense sprays, like pepper spray or mace, contain irritant substances and are classified as class 9 hazardous waste.
Is Class 9 Hazardous Waste Dangerous?
Class 9’s hazardous waste is difficult to determine, identify, and classify when it comes to how dangerous it is. When it comes to the environment, any hazardous waste damages the water supply, earth’s soil, and air quality if not properly disposed of.
But unlike class 8’s corrosive hazardous waste, class 9 hazardous wastes don’t pose the same danger to humans.
There is no clear way to label how dangerous class 9 hazardous waste is because there are so many different materials and products included. If you’re unsure, contact a hazardous waste disposal professional who can help guide you through proper handling and disposal.
Sources and Generators of Class 9 Hazardous Waste
Because class 9 hazardous waste is miscellaneous, there is no clear source or generator of the waste. Chemical production plants, hospitals, health care facilities, and the automotive industry all contribute and generate class 9 hazardous waste.
Handling and Management of Class 9 Hazardous Waste
All hazardous waste falls under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which permits the EPA to control hazardous waste from cradle to grave.
Federal and state regulations for handling, transporting, and disposing of class 9 hazardous waste may differ. Check with local authorities on specific guidelines to avoid unnecessary fines or work alongside a professional hazardous waste disposal company that can help.
When storing class 9 hazardous waste, ensure that the waste is separated from other types of hazardous waste to avoid chemical reactions.
If you violate RCRA regulations, the EPA and state authorities can issue fines and order corrective actions. These situations often are found during DEP inspections.
The best way to avoid fines, penalties, and serious injuries due to hazardous waste management is to work with a trained hazardous waste disposal company. With 25 years of experience, the HWH Environmental team will help you solve your class 9 hazardous waste problems.
HWH Environmental’s Hazardous Waste Disposal Services
If you’re a generator of hazardous waste, it’s important you work alongside a hazardous waste disposal company to avoid fines and regulation offenses. Whether you have excess hand sanitizer or a collection of construction waste, HWH Environmental helps your business stay within RCRA’s regulations.
For more information or any questions about HWH Environmental’s hazardous waste disposal services, call us at 866-762-0736 or contact one of our waste disposal experts today.