Operational Standards

(1) Each Dental Facility subject to 310 CMR 73.00 shall: (a) ensure that no amalgam waste is disposed of with solid waste or medical waste; safely store all amalgam waste generated at the Dental Facility in containers that are sealed and structurally sound; (c) use only biodegradable disinfectants and cleaning agents that are non-corrosive (pH range between 6.5 - 8.0) and non-oxidizing (no bleach) in the facility’s vacuum lines and all other drains connected to its amalgam separator. The disinfectants and cleaning agents shall also be compatible with the unit(s) in use, and shall be used only in accordance with the unit manufacturer's instructions; (d) ensure amalgam separator system clean-outs are conducted in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended frequency. The frequency may depend upon the volume of wastewater discharged, and may be as often as daily, weekly, or monthly; (e) transfer all amalgam waste to a permitted hazardous waste recycling facility, licensed hazardous waste facility, a facility that consolidates shipments of amalgam waste before being shipped off-site for reclamation, or, if shipped out of state, a facility that is authorized to reclaim mercury from amalgam waste. Shipments of amalgam waste to facilities described in 310 CMR 73.05(1)(d) shall be transported by either a common carrier or a licensed hazardous waste transporter, and accompanied by information identifying the shipment as amalgam waste containing mercury; and (f) retain documentation, such as a certificate of recycling, a hazardous waste manifest, bill of lading or contractual agreement, showing that the amalgam waste has been recycled by being reclaimed and the name and address of the facility at which the amalgam waste is ultimately recycled.