What is the appropriate disposal method that household consumers should use for their lead-contaminated children’s products?
EPA’s regulations state that wastes from households (i.e., garbage and trash) are not regulated as hazardous waste under RCRA. Household waste includes waste derived from single and multiple residences, hotels and motels, bunkhouses, ranger stations, crew quarters, campgrounds, picnic grounds, and day-use recreational areas (see 40 CFR 261.4(b)(1)). Therefore, consumers that qualify as a household may dispose of their lead-contaminated toys in the same manner that they discard ordinary household trash. Some states, however, may have more restrictive requirements, and localities may encourage consumers to dispose of such items in household hazardous waste collection events (typically sponsored by the local government); consumers should consult their state and local government for more information.
