A Closer Look at Enforcement Trends in California
JUNE 18, 2014
Enforcement Actions on the Rise
One of the challenges retailers face in managing their retail hazardous waste output is navigating differences in regulatory activity by geographic location. Retail sites in certain states or regions may face more scrutiny from regulators, which is often a reflection of the economic climate and regulatory culture of that particular area.
California has always been regarded as a highly active regulatory state. By looking at data on enforcement and compliance provided by the EPA, it’s possible to view just how rigorous oversight is in California.
Hazardous Waste Enforcement by the Numbers
From 2009 through 2013, California has consistently ranked among the top five most active states in the nation in the category of total hazardous waste enforcement actions (site inspections and violations), according to data from the EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Online website.
2013 data for Large Quantity Generators in California
• 96 facilities with inspections
• 57 facilities with new violations
• 55 facilities with enforcement actions taken against them
• 13 facilities with significant new noncompliance issues
• More than $1.2 million in fines issued
The top five hazardous waste violations in California by enterprise
1. Containers (bins and boxes)
2. Spill kits
3. Accurate lids and labels
4. Manifests
5. Incompatible hazardous waste (non-like items disposed together)
The Modernization of Enforcement
The EPA is currently undergoing changes to modernize how it inspects and records information at facilities where hazardous waste is generated. But the data shows the agency is continuing to work closely with state-level regulatory bodies, such as the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, to perform regular inspections and levy fines against retailers and other organizations that violate hazardous waste laws.
This is just one example of how hazardous waste enforcement varies by state or region, underscoring the need for organizations work with a partner to help understand the unique hazardous waste challenges in specific regulatory environments.