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Electroplating
Information presented in this publication is intended to provide a general understanding of the statutory and regulatory requirements governing electroplaters. This information is not intended to replace, limit or expand upon the complete statutory and regulatory requirements found in the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and Title 35 of the Illinois Administrative Code.
Electroplating wastes are potentially hazardous to human health and the environment when they are improperly managed. Several special and hazardous wastes are commonly generated by the electroplating industry. The "Do I Have a Special Waste?" publication defines and discusses special wastes. In Illinois, electroplating wastes are special wastes because they are industrial process wastes and may also be hazardous.
The "Do I Have a Special Waste?" publication also defines hazardous waste and will help determine if your waste is characteristic for ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity, or if it is listed. Hazardous solvents, liquids, and sludges must be managed by a hazardous waste transporter and a treatment or disposal company in accordance with hazardous waste requirements. The publication "How Do I Manage My Hazardous Waste?" will help to determine any applicable hazardous waste requirements, such as labeling, manifesting, and storage requirements.
For more information on electroplating wastes and applicable regulations, contact the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity at (800) 252-3998.
Related Information and Resources
Assistance in determining whether a business requires an Air, Land, or Water Pollution Control Permit from the Illinois EPA
Assistance in determining whether a business requires an air pollution control permit or registration from the Bureau of Air from the Illinois EPA
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity guidance regarding chrome electroplating
United States Environmental Protection Agency electroplating effluent guidelines
United States Environmental Protection Agency regulations and support documents for electroplating