Local Enforcement Agency Correspondence

Cathode Ray Tubes

Date: March 22, 2001

To: All Local Enforcement Agencies

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has prepared a discussion of the management of used cathode ray tubes (CRT). This information is available on the California Integrated Waste Management Board’s (CIWMB) Web site at www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Electronics/RegIssues/DTSCMFF/032001Summ.htm. DTSC is currently considering a new regulatory process to deal with these kinds of materials. Through this discussion, DTSC clarified information regarding the prohibition of disposal of waste CRTs in California’s municipal landfills. However, DTSC will continue to focus enforcement of management of CRTs on a complaint/response basis and on violations of the hazardous waste regulations that present immediate and significant risks to public health or the environment.

In order for the CIWMB to help LEAs manage this issue we anticipate the following activities over the next few months:

1. CIWMB will work with DTSC and other interested parties to help develop strategies to manage these materials in accordance with Hazardous Waste Control Regulations.
2. CIWMB will coordinate a crossdivisional approach to CRT management, which will include efforts of Waste Prevention and Markets Development; Diversion, Planning and Local Assistance; Permitting and Enforcement; and Special Waste staff.
3. CIWMB will enhance the E-Waste web page containing information for management of CRTs.
4. CIWMB will gather information from LEAs, operators and the public regarding the development of infrastructure for safe handling, storage, transport and the recycling of these materials. Events for feedback:
     - Discussions at HHW Conference May 16-18
     - Discussions at CRRA Conference July 9-11
     - Discussions at LEA Conference Aug 21-23

During these early stages in the development of a new regulatory structure for management of CRTs, CIWMB recommends that LEAs work with solid waste facility operators to keep CRTs from being disposed in municipal solid waste landfills. There may be businesses that recycle electronic goods that will accept this electronic equipment or nonprofit agencies that will accept working equipment and direct them to new owners. At a minimum, CRTs should be removed from the waste stream and placed on an impervious surface for eventual collection.

We request feedback describing what is and is not working in the field, opinions, comments, and criticisms. Please direct these ideas and comments to your Enforcement Advisory Council (EAC) representative. Should you have questions regarding the information presented here, please contact Janet Munger at (916) 341-6382 or jmunger@ciwmb.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Original signed by

Julie Nauman
Deputy Director
Permitting and Enforcement Division

cc: Solid Waste Transfer Station and Landfill Facility Operators

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