Waste lamps include inoperable or broken electric lamps (or light bulbs). Waste lamps are a potential safety and environmental concern because they may contain mercury or other toxic heavy metals. Many types of waste lamps (or bulbs) are regulated and are subject to strict waste management requirements.
n Fluorescent Lamps (linear, U-shaped, circular, CFL): 4-foot and 8-foot linear, U-shaped, circular and compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs, including “green-tipped” or “low-mercury” lamps.
n HID Lamps: High intensity discharge (HID) lamps are often associated with large interior spaces with high ceilings, such as warehouses, and exterior lighting, such as peripheral security lighting, streetlights, and fuel island lighting. They may also be found in newer motor vehicle headlights, as well as liquid-crystal display (LCD) or digital light processing (DLP) projection television sets, or projection displays.
n LED Lamps: Light-emitting diode (LED) lamps may contain federally regulated metals such as lead, chromium, or selenium. LED lamps are now available in 4-foot and 8-foot linear tube sizes. Note that multiple, individual LED bulbs are typically contained in an LED lamp.
n Ultraviolet Lamps: Ultraviolet (UV) lamps emit high intensity UV light. Small UV lamps may be present in USPS® mail sorting automation platforms, such as the Advanced Facer Canceler System. UV bulbs may also be used in “disinfection” and “germicidal” lighting systems.
The following procedures are required for USPS sites to ensure compliance with environmental regulations:
n Store regulated bulbs in closed containers that are properly labeled (e.g., Waste Lamps or Used Lamps).
n Send regulated bulbs off site for recycling within 1–year.
n Recycle regulated bulbs using one of the following services provided by Cleanlites Recycling, Inc. on eBuyPlus (see USA Lamp & Ballast Recycling, Inc. catalog):
n Mailback services: Use the appropriate Cleanlites “LampMaster” recycling kit based on bulb type.
n Direct or on-site pickup services: Sites with large quantities of regulated bulbs can schedule a direct pickup.
n Maintain shipment and recycling records.
n Do NOT send waste bulbs to the Atlanta Mail Recovery Center, Ybor City Processing and Distribution Center (Tampa Logistics and Distribution Center), or the Topeka Material Distribution Center.
Note: Incandescent and halogen bulbs that typically do not contain mercury or toxic metals and are non-hazardous, can be disposed of in the trash or dumpster.
For more information about managing waste lamps:
n Review the Waste Lamp Management Environmental Compliance Bulletin / Standard Work Instruction at: blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/waste/ecb-waste-lamps.pdf.
n Consult your designated Environmental Specialist at: blue.usps.gov/sustainability/regional-environmental-compliance-all.htm.
— Environmental Affairs and
Corporate Sustainability, 8-7-25
