Hazardous Waste Management Faces Ongoing Market Vigilance

JUNE 23, 2014

Complexities of Hazardous Waste Management

In a previous post, we discussed the complexities of maintaining compliance with EPA regulations regarding retail hazardous waste. Several large retailers have faced significant fines over the last several years and, based upon recent events, it appears regulatory scrutiny isn’t likely to diminish in 2014.

It’s not just the retail industry that should be concerned. A series of recent fines suggests all sectors should take the necessary steps to ensure compliance—or risk paying a hefty price.

In late 2013, for example, the EPA fined two Oregon companies nearly $1 million for the improper storage and transportation of hazardous materials. More recently, an individual in California was fined more than $240,000 by state regulators as a result of illegally storing toxic substances. In yet another case, last month two Baltimore-based metal plating manufacturers agreed to pay a $5,000 penalty for hazardous waste infractions.

These are just a few examples of recent fines to underscore that regulators in state and federal agencies are growing increasingly vigilant about environmental infractions. As such, it’s critical that all organizations interfacing with these regulatory bodies also become more attentive to their compliance practices.

Vigilance is Key

Hazardous waste removal as a market is subject to vigilance from all sides—government agencies, the public and a company’s own corporate boardroom. The process must be managed as carefully as every other aspect of a business in order to comply with complex laws governing the collection, categorization, recording and disposal of hazardous waste. Oversight in this market shows no signs of slowing down, and organizations that fall behind in implementing compliance strategies for proper handling and removal of hazardous waste may find themselves at risk for violations.