Used Oil
According to ADEM Admin Code 335-14-1-.02(1), “used oil” is any oil that has been refined from crude oil, or any synthetic oil, that has been used and, as a result of such use, is contaminated by physical or chemical impurities. Used Oil is generated throughout the plant in multiple ways including but not limited to preventative maintenance, equipment maintenance, and the reclaim system at the Chip Bay.
Examples of Used Oil include but aren’t limited to the following: Compressor Oils, Coolants, Insulating Oils, Engine Oils, Hydraulic Fluids, Metal-working Fluids, Cutting Oils, Synthetic Oils, and Water-Soluble Oils
After the oil has completed its usefulness, it must be discarded as Used Oil.
Steps for Discarding Used Oil
Before transferring any oil or draining any equipment, make sure you are in a place that minimizes the likelihood that oil will get on the ground and outside. The ideal area is on or within a secondary containment.
Identify the closest spill kit in case a spill occurs.
Make sure the drum or tote has no signs of damage and has a readable “USED OIL” label on it prior to use of container. New labels can be found in the environmental department.
Very carefully pump or pour the oil into the container.
When the tote or barrel is full, bring it to the environmental tote storage area and notify the Environmental Department. Used oil can also be found in the forklift shop from maintenance activies and in the machine shop from its operations.
Used oil drums on a secondary containment.
Spill kit sign
Used Oil label
Reminders
If a spill occurs, stop transferring immediately and clean up the spill no matter how small. If the spill is large notify your supervisor and ask for help. Use the materials in the spill kits as necessary. When the spill is contained, the oily clean-up materials can be placed into the Non-Hazardous Waste container.It is a best management practice to not transport used oil during a rain event.Used oil is routinely pickup by a local vendor who recycles it into a useable product.
