Energy company to pay $231K for hazardous waste violations at South Carolina facility
Ameresco Palmetto, LLC has reached an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The agency alleges that Ameresco violated federal and state laws governing the handling and storage of hazardous waste at its South Carolina facility. The EPA and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, now the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, conducted a joint inspection of the facility in 2023. During its evaluation, the EPA noted several potential violations of state and federal hazardous waste laws relating to the management of hazardous waste in containers and tanks, including volatile organic air emission requirements. To rectify the situation, Ameresco will pay $231,000 in civil penalties and correct all alleged noncompliance.
What people are saying
In a recent quote Keriema Newman, Director of the Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division, said, “It's important that generators of hazardous wastes follow applicable federal and state regulations to protect human health and the environment. Generators are responsible for the appropriate management of their wastes. Companies will be held accountable when they do not follow applicable state and federal environmental laws.”
EPA in the news
Recycler to pay $236K for hazardous waste violations and $642K to reduce organic air emissions
At GRR’s facility in Attalla, Alabama, the company blends hazardous waste for use as fuel in boilers and industrial furnaces.
Akron Steel Treating pays $106K penalty for hazardous waste violations
Akron Steel Treating stored hazardous waste at the facility for more than 180 days without a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act permit.
Hawkins Inc. fined $51K for producing too much hazardous waste
The EPA concluded that the company was operating as an unpermitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility.
Learn more about hazardous waste
How to Prepare for OSHA’s New HazCom Final Rule
A look at the changes to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard and guidance on how to ensure compliance.
Hazmat Gear Considerations for Chemical Spills
One item does not fit all, especially when it comes to chemical hazards. Here’s what you need to know when reviewing your personal protective equipment and chemical protective clothing options.
OSHA Changes Process Safety Management Standard
Directive governs the safe use and storage of highly hazardous chemicals.