The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors hazardous waste in the United States. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) was enacted in 1976 to provide "cradle to grave" tracking of substances that have been shown pose a substantial danger to human health or the environment when improperly managed.

The EPA defines hazardous waste and generates lists of substances shown to cause increased mortality or illness in humans or harm to the environment. In general, "hazardous waste" includes materials that have been judged by the EPA to be corrosive, ignitable, reactive or toxic.

In addition to publishing lists of hazardous wastes, the EPA also develops management regulations for hazardous waste generators and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs). Other issues addressed by the EPA include classification and labeling, as well as identifying opportunities to minimize the production of hazardous waste.

Neilson Research Corporation is prepared to handle hazardous waste testing, and to perform analysis of cleanup sites. Home renovation may release lead-based paint into the environment and create a serious health risk. Lead and asbestos abatement and methamphetamine drug labs generate toxic and possibly hazardous wastes. Underground storage tanks leak and contaminate the surrounding area. To meet required EPA standards for cleanup, professional abatement is recommended.

Automotive Products
Air conditioning refrigerants
Antifreeze Automotive batteries
Carburetor and fuel injection cleaners
Fuel additives
Motor oil
Starter fluids
Transmission and brake fluid
Batteries

Cleaning Products
Bleach (laundry)
Drain cleaners
Oven cleaners
Pool chemicals
Toilet cleaners
Tub, tile, and shower cleaners
Wood and metal cleaners and polishes

Indoor Pesticides
Ant sprays and baits
Bug sprays
Cockroach sprays and baits
Flea repellents and shampoos
Houseplant insecticides
Moth repellents
Mouse and rat poisons and baits

Lawn and Garden Products
Fungicides/wood preservatives
Herbicides, insecticides

Workshop/Painting Supplies
Adhesives and glues
Fixatives and other solvents
Furniture strippers
Oil or enamel based paint
Paint strippers and removers
Paint thinners and turpentine
Photographic chemicals
Stains and finishes

Miscellaneous
Batteries
Driveway sealer
Fluorescent light bulbs
Mercury thermostats or thermometers

Other Flammable Products
Diesel fuel
Gas/oil mix
Home heating oil
Kerosene
Lighter fluid
Propane and other gas cylinders

Sources: EPA (1997) RCRA: Reducing Risk From Waste. Washington DC, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/hhw-list.htm