TCLP and hazardous waste characterisation

TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure, EPA Method 1311) simulates how contaminants leach from solid waste into groundwater in a landfill. If the leachate exceeds the limits, the waste is hazardous (codes D004 to D011) and must go to a licensed hazardous waste facility. It is required before disposing of demolition debris, soil, industrial waste and other solids, anywhere RCRA applies.

Pick the panel

RCRA 8 limits

Limits per EPA SW-846 / 40 CFR Part 261.24.

In the field

Do:

• use the lab-supplied, pre-cleaned wide-mouth glass jars (1 L or 500 mL)
• use a stainless steel or chrome-plated trowel, decontaminated between samples
• take a representative grab sample of at least 100 g of solid material
• fill each jar to 90% or more, to keep headspace low
• complete the COC with site ID, waste description, matrix and panel, then sign and seal every container
• refrigerate at 4°C and ship overnight on the day you collect

Do not:

• use plastic containers, because VOCs sorb to plastic and bias results low
• use aluminium tools, which interfere with the metals analysis
• composite or pool samples: each sample must be discrete
• overfill containers
• delay shipment past 48 hours, the VOC holding time
• collect in direct sunlight or heat

The report

You get a certified report with RCRA hazardous codes (D004 to D011) or a non-hazardous result, ready for your disposal manifest.

TCLP is not the same as lead in soil or asbestos waste testing. Those assess exposure risk and fibre presence, not RCRA disposal classification.

Download the metals COC (PDF), which covers RCRA-8 and TCLP.