GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Changes in goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period			$ 21,200
US Ecology Michigan acquisition			1,327
Foreign currency translation			828
Balance at the end of the period	23,355		23,355
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	43,450		43,450		40,673
Accumulated amortization	(2,779)		(2,779)		(1,601)
Total intangible assets, net	41,594		41,594		39,238
Amortization expense	372	358	1,096	1,076
Permits and licenses
Intangible assets
Nonamortizing intangible assets	750		750
Tradename
Intangible assets
Nonamortizing intangible assets	173		173		166
Developed software
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	355		355		342
Database
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	102		102		98
Customer relationships
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	5,317		5,317		3,991
Technology - Formulae and processes
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	9,249		9,249		8,902
Permits, licenses and lease
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	28,407		28,407		27,340
Non-compete agreements
Intangible assets
Total amortizing intangible assets	$ 20		$ 20