Used Oil and Oil Filters: The handling of used oils Including engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid, manual transmission fluid and axle gear lube is straightforward process. It is often then most frequently repeated operation within a modern repair facility. In 2017,3.7 billion gallons of used oil was generated worldwide. How much of that amount was recycled properly is unknown. In the U.S.,around 1.3 billion gallons of used oil was generated and nearly all of that product collected in commercial enterprises was properly recycled. The RCRA makes a distinction that used oil which has not mixed with any other hazardous substance is not hazardous waste and may be handled under the "used oil standard". The U.S. EPA enforces the RCRA to ensure that: Used oil is drained off and stored in leak free containers that are properly marked "used oil". Used oil filters are collected and stored in leak free, properly marked containers if filters are to be sent to an approved recycler. - Used oil filters that are completely drained (no flowing oil) by method of gravity, crushing, air pressure or dis-assembly are recycled as scrap metal. - Only used oils, brake fluids and, in some states, a limited quantity of diesel fuel 10% of total volume) is collected as used oil. - All other fuels or solvents must be collected separately in properly marked containers. Used oil must not be mixed with other hazardous waste. - Used oil is disposed of through collection by a permitted recycler/waste hauler to an EPA permitted recycler or re-marketer. - Burned as a heating fuel where regulations allow it, only by the generator and only at the generator's location. - If used as fuel mix in diesel engines by the generator of that used oil, It is used only in generator's vehicles (subject to regulations in the Clean Air Act and individual state regulations). - Quantities of 55 gallons or less of used oil may be transported by a generator to recycling facility without permit.EPA permits are required over 55 gallons. - Storage tanks, filter containers satellite containers and any associated piping are inspected weekly for leakage or damage and promptly repaired Any used oil which is contaminated with hazardous materials must be segregated and handled as hazardous waste instead of used oil. - If needed, spill prevention control and countermeasures (SPCC)plan is crafted, published and all shop personnel are trained to contain a spill that arises Technicians should always use PPE in the form of latex gloves and splash goggles when changing and handling used oil and filters. Any clothing that becomes soaked with oil should be immediately removed and skin contact areas should be washed thoroughly with soap and water. In the U.S., around __ gallons of used oil was generated in 2017. 3.7 billion 3.1 billion 1.3 billion