Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) will conduct random inspections on Bayswater industrial businesses this month after recent sampling found high levels of metal contaminants in Dandenong Creek.
The inspections will ensure businesses have appropriate controls in place to prevent stormwater pollution, which impacts our aquatic environment in creeks, rivers and ultimately the ocean.
EPA Southern Metro Manager, Mr Leigh Bryant said businesses without appropriate controls in place would be issued with statutory notices requiring they implement solutions around wastewater and stormwater management and chemical storage facilities.
“Testing of Dandenong Creek and the Old Joes Creek tributary found elevated levels of metal contaminants including chromium, cadmium, silver, nickel and lead have entered the waterway through nearby stormwater drains,” he said.
“Businesses operating within the Old Joes Creek catchment were recently provided with free advice by Melbourne Water on how to improve stormwater controls onsite and reduce stormwater pollution from entering the creek.”
“The inspections will target businesses operating within the Old Joes Creek catchment that are known to use heavy metal solutions or hydrocarbons in their production processes.”
“High risk businesses such as mechanics, printers, engineering works and electroplaters will be targeted as part of the inspections.”