The Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship, or “VCPR,” is the Holy Grail of the practice of veterinary medicine. Business and Professions Code section
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Hazardous waste is a waste with properties that make it potentially dangerous or harmful to human health or the environment. Hazardous wastes can be liquids, solids, or contained gases. It is important to note that from a legal standpoint, such items do not become “waste” until someone no longer has use for them, or until they are discarded. Discarded hazardous items refer to those which are disposed of, stored or accumulated, recycled under certain circumstances, or treated to be neutralized into an inert state. Additionally, any hazardous item that is mislabeled or inadequately labeled is considered to be discarded, unless the label is corrected within 10 days. If a container containing a hazardous item is deteriorated or damaged, it is considered discarded unless the hazardous item is repackaged within 96 hours.
The California Environmental Protection Agency Department of Toxic Substances Control (Cal/EPA DTSC) has jurisdictional authority over hazardous waste. They may inspect premises, subpoena records, interview staff, and file charges in both administrative and criminal court for those who are suspected of violating hazardous waste laws.
In general, the following criteria can be applied to help determine if a waste is considered hazardous:
| Classification | Definition | Example | Legal Reference |
| Is it Ignitable? | In liquid form has a flash point of less than 60 degrees Centigrade; in solid form can ignite at room temperature through friction or absorption of moisture; or is an ignitable compressed gas. | Anesthetic gases | CCR Title 22 Section 66261.21 |
| Is it Corrosive? | In liquid form, will have a pH of less than 2 or greater than 12.5 | Strong acids or bases | CCR Title 22, Section 66261.22 |
| Is it Reactive? | Can explode, become unstable, release a toxic gas, or undergo violent reaction when mixed with water or when exposed to heat. | Ethylene OxideEther | CCR Title 22 Section 66261.23 |
| Is it Toxic? | Displays characteristics of toxicity in the environment or can be harmful to health at or above referenced levels. | Powdered copper, zinc and selenium (used in oral boluses for livestock)Mercury Lead Silver Formalin Fluorescent light bulbs Batteries Difquik Stain | CCR Title 22 Section 66261.24 |
Cal EPA offers a free online education module to help generators determine what constitutes hazardous waste. It can be found at: Training Opportunities | CalEPA
Cal EPA DTSC can be reached at:
1001 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814-2828
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 806
Sacramento, CA 95812-0806
A list of regional offices can be found here.
The Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship, or “VCPR,” is the Holy Grail of the practice of veterinary medicine. Business and Professions Code section
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CVMA Watchdog is exclusive to active members of the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). The CVMA is one of the largest veterinary medical associations in the nation and assumed its leadership position through ambitious, innovative programs.
