Available Now: 2023 Schedule of Hazmat & RCRA Training
Search

EPA Enforcement Roundup: Week of 11/16

Posted on 11/16/2020 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: A flooring and wall panel manufacturer
WHERE: Eastaboga, AL
WHAT: Clean Water Act violations
HOW MUCH: $900,000 plus $8.05 million in in supplemental projects

On November 2, EPA filed a proposed Consent Decree to resolve alleged unauthorized wastewater discharges by an Alabama-based manufacturer. Under the terms of the proposed Consent Decree, the company will develop and implement a pretreatment compliance training program and develop certain standard operating procedures for its facility as well as other facility improvements.

The company will also complete a supplemental environmental project to install an evaporation system that will reduce by over 86% the annual volume of process wastewater that is pretreated and discharged to the receiving POTW in Oxford, Alabama. 
 

WHO: A home and personal care products wholesaler
WHERE: Los Angeles, CA
WHAT: FIFRA violations
HOW MUCH: $213,668

A personal goods distributor reached an agreement over an alleged illegal attempt to import alcohol wipes that were not registered with EPA. According to EPA, the company sought to import over 650,000 wipes in 20 shipments into the US. The company also failed to file required documents stating that it was importing pesticides into the country.

EPA recently expanded its list of disinfecting products that are approved for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The list contains over 500 additional products—including products that went through the expedited review process for emerging viral pathogens. Only disinfecting products approved by EPA can make public health claims relating to effectiveness against viruses, bacteria, and other organisms.
 

WHO: An electronics recycling facility
WHERE: West Memphis, AR
WHAT: RCRA violations
HOW MUCH: $19,125

A facility that recycles consumer electronics allegedly mishandled hazardous and universal wastes as identified by EPA and State investigators on October 26, 2018. State and Federal environmental agencies claim the company failed to make a waste determination, properly and timely dispose of waste, demonstrate waste accumulation time, and provide necessary training among other violations.

In addition to paying a fine, the agreement requires the facility to submit either written procedures for determining if separated components of consumer electronic items may be characterized as hazardous waste or written notification that the disassembled electronics will be managed as universal waste.
 

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: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Clean Water Act, coronavirus, COVID-19, disinfectant, enforcement, environmental enforcement, EPA, FIFRA, fines, penalties, RCRA, universal waste

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

I used the IT support number available and my issue was resolved within a few minutes. I don't see anything that could have made it better.

Danny Province

EHS Professional

I chose Lion's online webinar because it is simple, effective, and easily accessible.

Jeremy Bost

Environmental Health & Safety Technician

Course instructor was better prepared and presented better than other trainers. Course manual and references were easier to use as well.

Marty Brownfield

Hazardous Waste Professional

The online course was well thought out and organized, with good interaction between the student and the course.

Larry Ybarra

Material Release Agent

Very witty instructor, made the long times sitting bearable. One of the few training courses I can say I actually enjoyed.

John Hutchinson

Senior EHS Engineer

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

Brian Martinez

Warehouse Operator

I had a positive experience utilizing this educational program. It was very informative, convenient, and rewarding from a career perspective.

John Gratacos

Logistics Manager

The exercises in the DOT hazardous materials management course are especially helpful in evaluating your understanding of course information.

Morgan Bliss

Principal Industrial Hygienist

Excellent class, super instructor, very easy to follow. No rushing through material. Would like to take his class again.

Lawrence Patterson

EH&S Facility Maintenance & Security Manager

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Hazardous materials shipment rejections bear a big cost. Use this guide to end operational and logistical disruptions that severely impact your bottom line.

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.