The Department of Environmental Quality for the state of Oregon has recently fined a Washington State business for improper disposal of hazardous waste.

As a result of the charge and findings, the company was required to pay approximately two thousand dollars in fines for improperly managing and identifying dry cleaning solvent. The chemicals and residues from dry cleaning operations are considered hazardous waste and must be disposed of according to regulations.

The business, Anderson Environmental Contacting, had deposited five hundred pounds of dry cleaning solvent generated from Alsco Linens in a Hillsboro, Oregon landfill. Representatives from Anderson had indicated to the landfill the waste material was non-hazardous. Had the chemicals been classified properly, Anderson would have been required to transport them to a certified and approved disposal facility designed specifically for toxic and hazardous waste.

As part of the settlement process, Anderson has also agreed to improve its policies and training so that employees can properly identify hazardous wastes and how to safely handle and dispose of them.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Hazardous and toxic waste is a danger to humans, animals, and the environment when it is not handled or disposed of properly. If your business works with substances classified as hazardous, it’s essential that you stay up-to-date on state and federal regulations. Otherwise, you risk endangering your community and incurring fines!