Environmental Virtual Campus (original) (raw)

For the most part, used oil is exactly what its name implies-any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used. In a cafeteria setting, however, used oil (i.e. cooking oil) probably does not fit EPA's definition of this substance, so it is not regulated under 40 CFR Part 279. Nevertheless, it should be containerized and kept separate from regular trash until it is disposed of or recycled (e.g., used as a biodiesel fuel). Although cooking oil is not regulated under RCRA, it is not exempt from SPCC regulations.

To determine whether your cafeteria's used oil (aside from used cooking oil, which we just indicated is not regulated under 40 CFR 279) falls under the EPA's definition and thus must follow oil management standards, consider these three criteria:

• Origin. Used oil must have been refined from crude oil or made from synthetic materials, not animal or vegetable products.
• Use. The EPA's definition excludes any unused oil, products used as cleaning agents or solvents, and certain petroleum-derived products, such as antifreeze and kerosene. Oils used as lubricants, hydraulic fluids, heat transfer fluids and buoyants, for instance, are considered used oil.
• Contaminants. To meet the EPA's definition, used oil must become contaminated as a result of being used. This includes residues and contaminants generated from handling, storing and processing used oil. Physical contaminants could include metal shavings, sawdust or dirt. Chemical contaminants could include solvents, halogens or salt water.

Continue on through this section of the EVC to learn more about requirements for used oil.