The Bullet:
At the request of Freeborn County the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) investigated properties where several tire fires had occurred in the recent past. The investigation revealed a generator of hazardous waste improperly disposing of both hazardous and non-hazardous waste through illegal storage, disposal, and open burning.
Who:
Charles D. Borneman, corporate officer for Albert Lea Trailer Inc. in Freeborn County, Minnesota.
Make certain you are in compliance with the regulations of the MPCA.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).
What:
Albert Lea Trailer Inc. has paid a $20,000 penalty and agreed to comply with state rules that prevent noxious smoke from burning materials such as rubber and a variety of other state regulations that mandate the cradle-to-grave management of hazardous waste.
Where:
Freeborn County, Minnesota.
When:
The multiple fires that sparked the investigation took place in March 2012.
The MPCA Press Release is dated May 8, 2014.
Why:
The open burning of waste by a business (homeowners have a few exceptions) is banned by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) passed as law in 1976. Read more about the history of RCRA. It is also against Minnesota law and just a real bad idea since it releases harmful pollutants (like dioxins) into the air.
How:
As a state with an authorized hazardous waste management program under RCRA, the MPCA has the authority to investigate, enforce, and assess penalties for violations of state environmental regulations.
Conclusion:
Whether you generate a little waste or a lot. Whether the waste is hazardous, non-hazardous, used oil, or universal waste, you must comply with the regulations of the USEPA or your state for its management at your site, its off-site transportation, and its final disposal. One requirement of those cradle-to-grave regulations is training for all Facility Personnel who come in contact with hazardous waste. Contact me for this training or for any questions you have about the management of hazardous waste.
|
Daniels Training Services 815.821.1550 |