What You Need to Know:
Amalgam Separators and Vac Lines
Where do I start? Decision Tree for EPA Amalgam Separation Rule handout
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By October 12, 2020, all dental offices must submit one-time Compliance Report to comply with EPA Clean Water Act
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Annual reporting requirements differ by State and municipality
Oregon
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Complete Dental Discharger Certification (Compliance Report).
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Submit Dental Discharger Certification and include proof of installation of amalgam separator (if office not on waiver list) to
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By January 15 each year, submit Dental Discharge Certification with Equipment & Amalgam Waste Management Log to DentalAmalgam@portlandoregon.gov.
Washington
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Visit the State’s site to One-Time Compliance Report instructions to determine where to submit Compliance Report.
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In municipalities where dental office served by municipal pre-treatment program, submit Compliance Report to that municipal office.
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Carefully note due dates for annual certification form. EX: Vancouver WA requires annual submission by Feb 28.
Tips
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Physical signature required on Compliance Form. Keep copy for your records.
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Keep records for 3 years: amalgam inspections, replacement and recycling of amalgam separation cartridges plus solid amalgam (waste buckets)
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Solmetex offers free records for cartridges and buckets sent to them.
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Learn more here
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Vacuum Lines
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By law, any vacuum lines attached to an amalgam separator must be maintained with cleaners between 6 - 8 pH.
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Bleach and other chemical cleaners break down amalgam and contaminate water.
Reach recommends BioPure™, an all-natural cleaner
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Breaks down and digests organic matter
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Helps reduce waste in amalgam cartridges, extending their lifespan and saving money
Optimizing Vacuum Line Performance
Step 1: BioPure Restore
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Start daily treatment of the 2 operatories closest to vac pump for 10 days.
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Then add 2 more operatories and repeat process until all operatories treated.
Step 2: BioPure Maintain
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Twice weekly treatment for all operatories.
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Cost-effective when compared to other products requiring daily use.