Search

EPA Enforcement Roundup: Week of 3/1

Posted on 3/1/2021 by Lauren Scott

Every day, facilities across the US receive Notices of Violation from US EPA for alleged noncompliance with a wide variety of programs like the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts; chemical management and reporting regulations (TSCA, EPCRA, CERCLA, etc.); hazardous waste management and disposal standards (RCRA); and much more.

Below are examples of recent EPA enforcement actions that provide insight into how and why EPA issues civil penalties to facilities for environmental noncompliance. Names of companies and individuals cited by EPA are withheld to protect their privacy.
 

WHO: An RV campground contractor
WHERE: Ottumwa, IA
WHAT: Clean Water Act violations
HOW MUCH: $15,000 plus $230,000 in mitigation bank restoration credits

A contractor and its affiliates allegedly constructed a recreational vehicle campground without the proper authorizations, resulting in violations of the Clean Water Act. Between 2013 and 2016, the contractor allegedly filled in approximately 5 acres of protected wetlands and conducted unauthorized bank stabilization along approximately 2,000 feet of the Des Moines River without first obtaining a required permit.

As part of the settlement, the contractor agreed to pay $230,000 in mitigation bank credits to support restoration of the affected area and remove unauthorized materials in wetlands among other conservation efforts.
 

WHO: A boat repair shop
WHERE: Newport Beach, CA
WHAT: Clean Water Act violations
HOW MUCH: $142,224

During inspections in 2018 and 2019, EPA investigators found a boat repair shop allegedly failed to conduct required stormwater sampling and properly clean and dispose of identified debris near catch basins. The facility had also allegedly exceeded limits for both copper and zinc levels in stormwater.

In addition to paying a penalty, the company agreed to maintain preventative measures to reduce the discharge of pollutants through stormwater runoff into Newport Bay, an impaired water body for numerous pollutants.
 

WHO: An agricultural manufacturer
WHERE: Salinas, CA
WHAT: Clean Air Act violations
HOW MUCH: $80,000

On July 23, 2019, EPA performed an inspection at an agricultural refrigeration facility and identified alleged violations of the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Plan regulations. The facility chills and stores produce-related products for the food-service industry, using anhydrous ammonia for refrigeration.

Alleged violations include inaccurate safety information; inadequate and inconsistent labeling and signage for process piping, equipment, and fencing throughout the facility; and inadequate piping and evaporator protections.
 

Convenient, Effective Online EHS Manager Training

Managing site compliance with the many complex EPA programs that affect your business—from the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts to TSCA, EPCRA, CERLCA, and more—is a major challenge. If you’re new to the field or need an update on changing EPA rules, online training is a convenient way to quickly build in-depth expertise.

Check out the latest EPA compliance training options here:
 
Complete Environmental Regulations
Clean Air Act Regulations Online
TSCA Regulations Online
Clean Water Act & SDWA Regulations Online
Superfund and Right-to-Know Act Regulations Online 
 

Tags: chemicals, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, environmental, EPA, EPA Enforcement Roundup, fines, penalties, Risk Management Plan

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The course was very informative and presented in a way that was easily understood and remembered. I would recommend this course.

Jeffrey Tierno

Hazmat Shipping Professional

The instructor did an excellent job presenting a very dry subject; keeping everyone interested and making it enjoyable.

Marc Bugg

Hazardous Waste Professional

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

The course is well thought out and organized in a way that leads to a clearer understanding of the total training.

David Baily

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Very good. I have always appreciated the way Lion Tech develops, presents and provides training and materials.

John Troy

Environmental Specialist

The instructor's energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the subject make the class a great learning experience!

Brian Martinez

Warehouse Operator

I have been to other training companies, but Lion’s material is much better and easier to understand.

Mark Abell

Regional Manager

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

The instructor kept the class engaged and made learning fun. There was a lot of information to cover but time flew by. I will definitely use Lion in the future!

Chelsea Minguela

Hazmat Shipping Professional

As always, Lion never disappoints

Paul Resley

Environmental Coordinator

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

In-flight hazmat incidents can be disastrous. This guide gives 5 tips for first-time air shippers to consider before offering dangerous goods for transportation on passenger or cargo aircraft.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.