Universal waste training is needed by any employee who handles or manages universal waste, such as staff who collect spent batteries, change lamps or process aerosol cans. Federal rules require both small and large quantity handlers to make sure workers know proper handling and emergency procedures for their responsibilities.

EPA's universal waste regulations in 40 CFR Part 273 cover universal waste. They set streamlined handling, storage, labeling, training and shipping rules for certain common hazardous wastes. States can adopt stricter versions or add categories of their own, so facilities should also check their state environmental agency's rules.

Under federal rules, universal waste includes five categories: batteries, certain recalled or collected pesticides, mercury-containing equipment, lamps such as fluorescent tubes, and aerosol cans, which EPA added in 2019. Many states add others, including electronic waste. Each item must still be managed to prevent releases to the environment.

Universal waste handlers can generally accumulate universal waste for up to one year from the date it is generated or received. Facilities must be able to show how long items have been stored, typically by dating containers or keeping an inventory log. Longer storage is allowed only when needed to collect enough for proper recovery or disposal.

A large quantity handler of universal waste accumulates 5,000 kilograms or more at any one time; a small quantity handler stays below that amount. Large quantity handlers must notify EPA and have an EPA identification number, keep shipment records and provide more thorough employee training. Small quantity handlers follow lighter requirements.