Waste Reduction Practices at Two Chromated Copper Arsenate Wood-Treating Plants

Abstract

Two chromated copper arsenate (CCA) wood-treating plants were assessed for their waste reduction practices. The objectives of this study were to estimate the amount of hazardous wastes that a well-designed and well-maintained CCA treatment facility would generate and to identify waste reduction opportunities. These practices have been reflected in several areas, including facility designs, process controls, and management practices. The facility designs included enclosed treatment buildings, covered drip pads, a drip pan, an automatic lumber handling system, power rollers, computerized chemical mixing systems, spill containments, and air ventilation systems to minimize mist or droplet emissions from cylinders and work tanks. Management practices have included pretreatment quality control, improved housekeeping, resource recovery and recycling, and operator training.