Is It Really Worth the Risk? Use Our Violation Calculator to Find Out!

What's at Risk? The Cost of Environmental Compliance vs. Non-Compliance

Hiring a consultant can be expensive, we get that. But not hiring one (or hiring the wrong one) can cost a lot more. The calculator below compares the estimated cost of compliance with the potential cost of non-compliance, based on the maximum federal fines for each regulatory area - per violation, per day.

Now, we’ll be the first to admit: this is an extreme example. Most facilities won’t get hit with maximum penalties. But it’s a useful gut check. Because when you see how high the stakes can go, and how fast they add up, it puts the cost of doing things right into perspective. And if you really want to make your stomach drop, try cranking those violations and days up a little - it doesn't take much to see the numbers explode!

Go ahead and try it out. You might be surprised how much you really have to lose.

Okay, let’s be real. Most facilities aren’t going to get hit with the maximum fines shown here, especially not for a small oversight or a first-time mistake (although it is possible!). These numbers reflect the upper limit when a regulatory agency decides to make an example out of someone, usually when there’s a history of violations, a public incident, or clear negligence. That said, even minor penalties can be disruptive. The real cost often comes in the form of increased inspections, time-consuming documentation, reputational damage, and the stress of fixing things under pressure.

So is it worth investing in compliance up front? In our experience, yes - if you want peace of mind, fewer surprises, and confidence that your program will hold up under scrutiny. If you’re only looking to check the box as cheaply as possible, you might save money in the short term, but the risk doesn’t disappear. If your business values staying ahead, protecting your team, and avoiding last-minute fire drills, getting it right from the beginning is almost always the better move.