San Francisco Bay is considered impaired due to high levels of mercury in fish, water and sediment. Because of the concerns with mercury in San Francisco Bay, the Regional Water Quality Control Plant (RWQCP) needs to reduce mercury discharges to the environment.
These amalgam waste reduction requirements were developed in cooperation with the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society and California Dental Association. Based on results in other jurisdictions, it is estimated that mercury discharges to the air and water from the RWQCP could decrease up to 50%.
Exempt Facilities
A facility is exempt from this requirement if amalgam fillings are removed or placed 3 or fewer days per year and the facility serves the following primary function:
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Radiology
- Oral pathology or oral medicine
- Endodontics
- Prosthodontics
Summary of Requirements (PDF)
Sewer Use Ordanance (PDF)
Approved Amalgam Separators
List maintained by City and County of San Francisco
Inspection Checklist
More information is available for download, below.
