  |
|
|
Department of Ecology News Release - August 13, 2001
01-138
OLYMPIA - Concern about the potential for a chemical fire and environmental contamination has prompted the state Department of Ecology to levy a $42,000 fine against a Tacoma waste-recycler.
McClary Columbia Corp., located at 711 E. 11th St. in the tideflats area, recycles waste solvents. The Department of Ecology (Ecology) has tried repeatedly to get the company to improve how it stores dangerous wastes, to track the whereabouts of the waste better, and to assure that polluted storm water cannot run off the property.
The fine was issued after Ecology inspectors became concerned that flammable solvents on the site could cause a serious fire, or could contaminate soil and ground water if containment measures were not improved.
Other violations include inadequate inventory and acceptance practices for wastes, and lack of training and notification to emergency response agencies.Prior to issuing the penalty, Ecology had sought an agreement with the company that would set deadlines for compliance. When negotiation timelines expired, we decided to use enforcement, according to Greg Sorlie, manager of Ecology's hazardous-waste program.
"We have attempted to work with this company for a number of years. The environment and public health are in jeopardy, and we decided we must take firm steps to protect it," Sorlie said.
The six-employee company is one of a small number of hazardous-waste recyclers that provide a much-needed service to small businesses in the state, according to Sorlie.
McClary Columbia Corp. recycles waste solvents used in the paint and fiberglass industries. It differs from Phillip Services Corp., which Ecology also fined last week for mismanaging dangerous wastes. Phillip is a treatment, storage and disposal company, not a waste recycler.
When waste recyclers properly manage their waste, they are exempt from dangerous-waste regulations, Sorlie said.
In recent years, an increasing number of waste-handlers in Washington have abruptly abandoned their facilities, leaving taxpayers and customers to foot the bill for closure and cleanup. Ecology is working on an initiative to make sure waste handlers pay the full cost of closing and cleaning their facilities.
Business owners can get information about where to take their wastes from the Hazardous Waste Services Directory on Ecology's Web site at www.ecy.wa.gov/apps/hwtr/hwsd/default.htm, by e-mailing dzin461@ecy.wa.gov or by calling 360-407-6752.
The owner may file an application for relief from the penalty with Ecology within 15 days, or may file an appeal within 30 days with the state Pollution Control Hearings Board.Contact: Sandy Howard, public information manager, 360-407-6239
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
