What Does TCLP Testing Find?

TCLP testing, as it applies to painting operations, is performed to determine the level of metals contained in used spray booth filters, prep deck filters, still bottoms, and shop dust. In this context, TCLP testing measures Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Selenium and Silver. Performing a full-spectrum TCLP analysis would be inappropriate for bodyshops using paint products as such products do not contain volatiles, semi-volatiles, or herbicides/pesticides.  The single exception to this rule of thumb would be the test for Total Toxics Organics. Once testing is performed, the results are evaluated against the Federal Toxicity Characteristic (TC).

Constituents and Regulatory Levels as published in the Federal Register (3/29/90). All waste products with results falling within the acceptable metals levels as set forth by the EPA do not need to be handled, stored, transported or disposed of as hazardous waste (but may now be considered to be special waste or solid waste.

Copyright © Tara L. Munro. All Rights Reserved.