Costa Oils Hazardous Waste Management Policy

Commitment to Safety, Compliance & Environmental Responsibility

At Costa Oils Inc., our responsibility to the environment goes beyond oil changes — it extends into how we handle every drop of waste generated at our service locations. Our hazardous waste policy ensures full compliance with the U.S. EPA, PA DEP, and applicable local regulations, while maintaining the highest standards of safety for our team and the communities we serve.

Generator Classification: Costa Oils Is a VSQG

Costa Oils Inc. is classified as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG), meaning we generate less than:

  • 220 lbs. of hazardous waste per month

  • 2.2 lbs. of acute hazardous waste per month

As a VSQG, Costa Oils stores waste in EPA-certified double-wall steel tanks and follows strict procedures for labeling, handling, and transporting waste materials.

Regulatory Framework

Our waste management practices are aligned with the following federal laws:

  • RCRA – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

  • CERCLA – Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

  • EPCRA – Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act

All storage areas are kept free from fire hazards, contamination, and other health risks, and proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is always available for staff handling waste materials.

Certified Partners for Waste Oil Removal

Costa Oils Inc. only works with licensed, EPA-approved waste handlers to ensure safe and compliant transportation and disposal:

  • Ernie’s Waste Oil – Eastern Ohio, Western Pennsylvania

  • Spirit Services – Central PA, Northeastern Maryland

  • Safety-Kleen – Nationwide

  • Clean Harbors – Nationwide

  • Lorco – Maryland & Southeastern Pennsylvania

All shipments are documented, certified, and signed by DOT-trained Costa Oils representatives, with records retained for a minimum of 3 years.

Understanding the Difference: Waste Oil vs. Used Oil

It’s critical to distinguish between used oil and waste oil, as they are regulated differently.

  • Used Oil: Oil refined from crude or synthetic sources that has been used and contaminated by mechanical processes (e.g., oil drained from a vehicle).

  • Waste Oil: Oil that has been contaminated before use or contains hazardous contaminants that exceed EPA thresholds (e.g., water-infiltrated drum).

Improper labeling or mixing of waste types can lead to hefty fines. For compliance:

✅ Label as “USED OIL” unless it meets the criteria for “waste oil”
🚫 Do not mix used oil with solvents or chemicals

Best Practices for Used Oil Management

  • Store used oil separately from hazardous materials

  • Use secondary containment systems (dikes, berms, etc.)

  • Do not dispose of filters or oil without proper draining and testing

  • Maintain all documentation:

    • Generator & transporter names and EPA IDs

    • Volume and date of shipment

    • Retain for 3+ years

💡 Note: EPA tracking numbers are not required for used oil shipments under 55 gallons, but local laws may vary.

Oil Filter & Sample Analysis: Don’t Discard Critical Data

Oil filters and post-use samples provide valuable diagnostic insight. Instead of discarding them:

  1. Use a filter cutter to inspect filter media

  2. Rinse and perform a patch test

  3. Analyze debris for signs of wear or contamination

These practices support a proactive maintenance program and align with ISO 55001 asset management standards.

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Improper disposal of used oil and filters isn’t just illegal — it’s damaging to our planet.

Did You Know?

  • Just 1 oil change can contaminate 1 million gallons of water

  • One cup of used oil can pollute a 1-acre pond

  • Recycling 1 gallon of used motor oil produces the same 2.5 quarts of base oil as 42 gallons of crude oil

Environmental Impact & Industry Leadership

Costa Oils is proud to lead by example. Through responsible waste practices, we:

  • Prevent environmental damage

  • Maintain regulatory compliance

  • Reduce long-term operational risks

  • Contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable automotive industry

Questions About Our Waste Policy?

For franchisees, vendors, and customers looking to understand our environmental protocols or waste handling certifications, please contact us directly at info@costaoils.com.

Costa Oils Inc.
Changing oil. Changing industry standards.