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Label Dangerous Waste

Businesses who generate waste must label it properly. Labels on dangerous waste containers and tanks should clearly show:

• The words “Dangerous Waste” or “Hazardous Waste”
• Risk labels, such as Flammable, Corrosive, Toxic, or Persistent.

For containers only (not required on tanks):

• Accumulation start date—Mark the date on a container the first time waste is added to the container to track how long the waste has been kept on-site.

Free Waste Labels are available to download.

Universal Wastes (batteries, fluorescent bulbs and tubes, and mercury-containing equipment) must be labeled "Universal Waste" and should indicate the specific type of universal waste. 

Transport and Ship Dangerous Wastes describes specific transportation labeling. The Federal Department of Transportation and Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission are the primary agencies for hazardous-waste transportation rules.

Satellite Accumulation Area is an area that is near waste-producing processes. Containers there do not require a date until the waste-volume limit is reached. However, the container must meet other labeling requirements.

Related information

Accumulating dangerous waste on-site contains dangerous waste labeling regulations at WAC 173-303-200(1)(d) of the Dangerous Waste Regulations. 

Preparing Waste for Transport and labeling each package for transport is in WAC 173-303-190(2) of the state Dangerous Waste Regulations.

United States DOT Regulations, 49 CFR Part 172 contains the Federal regulations.