Antifreeze and Coolant Recycling Collection Tank Audit

Verifies that used antifreeze and coolant collection tanks are properly labeled, safely stored, and compliant with OSHA, NFPA, and EPA recycling standards at auto parts and service facilities.

Audit Setup and Location Details

• Facility name and store/location number
  Enter the full facility name and assigned location or store number.
• Inspector name and role
  Enter the name and job title of the person conducting this audit.
• Audit date and time
  Record the date and time the audit was conducted.
• Tank location within facility
  Select where the used antifreeze collection tank is physically located.
• Recycling service provider on record
  Enter the name of the contracted recycling/collection service (e.g., Clean Harbors, GFL Environmental, Cleanaway).

Tank Labeling and Identification

• Tank is labeled 'USED ANTIFREEZE' or 'USED COOLANT' in clearly legible text
  The primary label must identify the contents as used/spent antifreeze or coolant. Verify text is readable from 5 feet.
• GHS-compliant hazard label or SDS reference is affixed to the tank
  Per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200, containers of hazardous chemicals must display GHS pictograms, signal word, hazard statements, and precautionary statements, or reference the applicable Safety Data Sheet.
• Label is free of damage, fading, or obscuring (e.g., not covered by tape, dirt, or other materials)
  Labels must remain legible throughout the tank's use. Inspect for peeling, fading, liquid damage, or physical obstruction.
• Tank is NOT labeled or used for any other waste stream (e.g., used oil, solvents)
  Cross-contamination of waste streams is a regulatory violation. Confirm the tank is dedicated solely to used antifreeze/coolant.

Tank Condition and Physical Integrity

• Tank shows no visible cracks, holes, bulging, or structural deformation
  Visually inspect all sides and the bottom of the tank. Any structural compromise is a critical deficiency.
• Tank lid, cap, or bung is present, properly closed, and not leaking
  Open or missing closures allow vapors to escape and create spill risk. Verify the closure is tight and undamaged.
• No evidence of spills, drips, or staining on or around the tank base
  Inspect the floor or pad beneath and around the tank for discoloration, pooling liquid, or dried residue indicating past or active leaks.
• Tank fill level is within safe capacity (not overfilled)
  Tanks should not be filled beyond the manufacturer's rated capacity. Overfilling increases spill risk during transfer or transport.

Secondary Containment and Storage Area

• Tank is stored within a secondary containment structure (berm, drip pan, or containment pallet)
  Secondary containment must be capable of holding at least 110% of the tank's total volume to capture any release.
• Secondary containment is free of accumulated liquid, debris, or damage
  Containment structures filled with rainwater or debris lose effective capacity. Inspect and confirm they are clean and functional.
• Storage area is segregated from incompatible materials (e.g., fuels, oxidizers, open flames)
  Used antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is flammable at elevated temperatures. Storage must be away from ignition sources per NFPA 1.

PPE and Emergency Response Readiness

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or equivalent) are available at or near the tank
  Employees handling used antifreeze must have access to appropriate hand protection per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.138.
• Eye protection (safety glasses or face shield) is accessible within the storage area
  Splash risk during transfer operations requires eye/face protection per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.133.
• Spill kit or absorbent material is staged within 25 feet of the tank
  An appropriate spill response kit (absorbent pads, granular absorbent, or equivalent) must be immediately accessible to contain minor releases.

Recycling Service Documentation and Compliance Records

• Most recent recycling pickup manifest or service receipt is on file and dated within the past 90 days
  Recycling service records demonstrate active program participation and proper disposal. Manifests from providers such as GFL Environmental or Cleanaway should be retained on-site.
• Days since last recycling pickup
  Enter the number of days since the last scheduled antifreeze recycling collection. Pickups should occur before the tank reaches capacity.
• Employees responsible for tank management have received hazardous waste handling training
  Training records must be available demonstrating that designated employees understand proper handling, labeling, and emergency procedures for used antifreeze.