Previous Incidents
Hazardous waste company fined $15K for unsafe storage
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined Environmental Treatment Solutions Pty Ltd $15,000 for allegedly failing to safely store hazardous chemicals at its Minto waste facility.
On 3 July 2020, the EPA inspected Environmental Treatment Solutions and found evidence of an alleged non-compliance with the company’s Environment Protection Licence for the unsafe storage of multiple chemicals, which should have been safely stored separately.
Certain types of chemicals should not be stored near each other due to the risk of a fire or explosion if there are leaks or spills.
EPA Director Regulatory Operations Giselle Howard said the $15,000 fine reflects the seriousness of the matter and the risk of a dangerous reaction.
“Our inspection found more than four tonnes of mixed hazardous wastes in the receivals area. These included oxidizing agents, acids, alkalis, flammable liquids and gases, and combustible compounds.
“The EPA directed the company to sort and segregate these chemicals, to create a safe environment.
“At close proximity, these types of chemicals can interact in the event of a leak or spill. The potential outcome can be extremely dangerous.
“The local community and neighbouring businesses have an expectation that licensees will comply with the rules and their licence requirements and have practices in place to protect people and the environment.”
Flyover Video, July 2024
This video captured the state of the facility at one point in time. We did not have authorized access to the facility, the plans or the operating procedures.
We have made the following assumptions:
1. floor grates in outdoor areas drain to stormwater
2. labelled new drums contain product
3. if segregation systems between incompatible chemicals or spill containment systems are not visible, they are not installed
If you are an owner or an operator and we have got this wrong, please contact us and we will endeavor to correct any errors we have made.
Client Organisations
- Not known
Local Environment
ETS, Minto, is located within 200 m of Bow Bowing Creek which joins Bunbury Curran Creek.
Location
