The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is continuing its enforcement of proper management and disposal of toxic substances known commonly as PCBs. The most recent business to incur fines is Phoenix, Arizona’s Veolia ES Technical Solutions which must pay a ninety five thousand dollar penalty for infractions found at their production facility.

The charges originated from facility inspections conducted in 2008 and 2010 when EPA enforcement inspectors discovered PCBs were improperly stored and disposed – therefore violating the Toxic Substances Control Act.

Proper management of PCBs is essential for worker safety and preserving the neighboring community from potential health hazards. As part of the settlement, the company must improve its disposal and storage practices for all hazardous substances.

PCBs are found in paint, plastics, industrial equipment, and oil used in electrical transformers. Over one and one half billion pounds of PCBs were used in the US until the EPA banned the manufacturing of it in 1978. However, many PCB-containing products are still used, and disposed of, today continuing to create environmental problems. Tests have shown that PCBs remain in the ground for decades and are attributed to the development of cancer and other serious health problems.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Toxic chemicals are bad for everyone – you, your employees, and the community where you do business. It pays to stay informed of the best practices and regulations surrounding hazardous substances – not only can knowledge of proper storage and disposal save you money, but it can also save lives!