USEPA Enforcement & Concrete Plants
Posted on Thu, Jul 22, 2010 @ 10:14 AM
There was just recently an interesting news release from USEPA Region 1 (New England) outlining the penalties levied against Cardi Materials of Warwich RI. The release was regarding violations of being in breach of the Federal Clean Water Act at one of their concrete plants. This is another example of the USEPA enforcement initiative directed at the concrete and aggregates industries nationwide.
We’ve been providing information, via this website, webinars, articles, social media, and by me directly about this enforcement initiative and the steps concrete and aggregate facilities should take to get into compliance and avoid this kind of penalty situation. I’ve written several blogs and articles that contain more information, including an article on how to avoid regulatory enforcement (the steps most critical to take to get into compliance - NOW!).
In addition to Cardi Materials civil penalty of $55,000, it's interesting to note that the penalty also required the installation of pervious paving alongside a park, at a cost of $168,500. Some people may think that’s a huge additional fine (because in the end, that $168,500 is all material that came out of their pocket), but in some ways, it can also be seen as an advertisement. Instead of cutting a check, their product is being showcased! It’s a great way to promote pervious concrete and its use in stormwater management.
In addition to the monetary fines, the penalty also requires that the facility conduct a comprehensive environmental audit, prepare an SPCC plan, start managing process water appropriately, perform monitoring and reporting of stormwater discharges, hire appropriately certified personnel, and conduct stormwater training. You’re looking at requirements that don’t have a dollar sign on them in the report, but will in the end.
Don’t become the next news release. Get into compliance now. RMA can provide services for any environment problems you may have, including ones required regulatory agencies! Contact us today to see how we can help you.
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