Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has fined a Coolaroo company $7,929 for allowing wash water used to clean chemical containers to enter a stormwater drain.
EPA officers inspected the premises in response to a community report in September and observed wash water at the rear of N.V. Chemicals (Aust) Pty Ltd entering the stormwater system. Sampling and analysis confirmed that the wash water contained chemicals.
“N.V. Chemicals did not appear to have adequate processes for managing waste wash water and for maintaining the site,” said EPA Metro Region Manager, Steve Pugh.
“This was an entirely avoidable offence. We have now taken action to ensure that N.V. Chemicals takes the necessary steps to improve its processes and contain spills from their washing facility.
“Given the nature of the offence it is appropriate they receive a fine of $7,929.”
Under the Environment Protection Act 1970 and the Infringements Act 2008, N.V. Chemicals has the right to have the decision to issue the infringement notice reviewed or alternatively to have the matter heard and determined by a court.
EPA encourages the community to report pollution to its 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or by visiting www.epa.vic.gov.au