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Office of the Commissioner > Programs/Bureaus/Units > Pollution Prevention Program > Pollution Prevention for the Automotive Industry >

Frequently Asked Questions

What are typical hazardous wastes at automotive repair facilities? Is our facility a small or full quantity generator? How can we reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated at our facility? What are the differences between Universal and Hazardous Wastes?

What are typical hazardous wastes at automotive repair facilities? Used oil, gasoline and antifreeze are the most common hazardous wastes generated by automotive facilities. All three wastes can be either directly reused as a still valuable "product" or recycled on site. Other automotive wastes, such as antifreeze, batteries and mercury switches may be managed as a universal waste. If directly reused, recycled or managed as a universal waste, these wastes do not count toward your hazardous waste generator status. More information can be found in "Pitstops: An Environmental Guide for Automobile Service Facilities." Call (603) 271-0878 or nhppp@des.nh.gov for a free copy.

Is our facility a small or full quantity generator? If your facility generates less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month, you are considered a "small quantity generator" according to the New Hampshire Hazardous Waste Rules. If your facility generates greater than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month, you are a "full quantity generator." Visit One Stop to determine your current generator status. For more information, refer to the New Hampshire Hazardous Waste Rules.

How can we reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated at our facility? Separate your hazardous and solid wastes. This will eliminate excess amounts of hazardous material generated, by distinguishing those that can be discarded as solid waste. Do not mix oil and gasoline. Oil can be recycled, and some gasoline can be reused, but not if they are mixed together. Brake, transmission and power steering fluid can be mixed with other used oil and recycled. Unused antifreeze can be recycled, reused or resold as product if in good condition. Parts that are for re-sale do not need to be solvent-cleaned. Train your employees on the proper process techniques to reduce needless spills. Generation of hazardous waste can be greatly reduced by purchasing only the amount of solvents, degreasers, paints, etc., needed. For a listing of best management practices, visit New Hampshire Green Yards - Best Management Practices for NH Motor Vehicle Recycling Facilities.

What are the differences between Universal and Hazardous Wastes? Universal wastes are wastes that meet the definition of hazardous waste in the NH Hazardous Waste Rules. They are generated by all segments of the population and, unfortunately, often improperly disposed of by the people who generate them. In an effort to make it easier and more cost effective to properly manage these wastes, the Universal Waste Rules exempts the wastes from the more burdensome Hazardous Waste Rules requirements, as long as they are managed to prevent release to the environment and properly recycled or disposed of. Links to information on specific New Hampshire universal wastes: Mercury-Containing Lamps and Devices Batteries Cathode Ray Tubes Used Automobile Antifreeze Pesticides

NH Department of Environmental Services | 29 Hazen Drive | PO Box 95 | Concord, NH 03302-0095
(603) 271-3503 | TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964 | Hours: M-F, 8am-4pm