The NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued a fine for Hydromet Corporation of $30,000 for inadequate storage of waste materials at their Tomago facility and the resulting pollution of a nearby drainage line.
Investigations by the EPA in February of this year raised concerns over the storage of hazardous materials at the site.
These concerns were confirmed when a water sample taken by the EPA showed elevated levels of cadmium, copper, nickel, selenium and zinc in a nearby drainage line.
In response, the EPA has issued two penalty notices: $15,000 for the inadequate storage of waste material and $15,000 for polluting waters.
EPA Regional Director North Adam Gilligan said the matter represents an unacceptable risk to the environment.
"Inappropriately handling hazardous materials and discharging polluted water are serious matters," he said.
"The EPA will require Hydronet to plan and implement the ongoing remediation of the site to ensure the local environment and community are protected."
Hydronet has since completed clean-up activities on the affected drainage line and removed over 2,000 tonnes of hazardous solid waste and over 800,000 litres of liquid waste.
The Tomago facility will remain closed while clean-up work on the site is undertaken, so as to ensure proper remediation of all contamination.
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| Following ongoing investigations, the EPA has issued two fines of $15,000 to Hydromet. |
