A chemical production company in Riverstone NSW has been fined $45,000 and issued three Formal Warnings for multiple breaches including failing to store chemicals properly and poor onsite water management.
An investigation by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) found that Omega Industries Pty Ltd was engaging in illegal storage practices and was not separating clean and contaminated water to an adequate standard.
NSW EPA Director of Field Operations David Gathercole said the company's poor practices created an unacceptable risk to the environment and nearby communities.
"Our investigation found inadequate containment of hazardous chemicals and waste, including chemicals stored in damaged containers. This could potentially cause harm to nearby businesses in the event of a spill or fire," he said.
"We also found poor wastewater management, putting nearby waterways, like Eastern Creek and Nepean River, at risk of contamination.
"Omega Industries has had plenty of chances to clean up its act - this is the third Penalty Infringement Notice we have issued them in two years, alongside several Formal Warnings.
"We will not tolerate repeated non-compliance. We will continue to monitor the site closely and won't hesitate to take further regulatory action if required."
In addition to the $45,000 Penalty Infringement Notice issued for failing to carry out activities in a competent manner, the EPA also issued three Formal Warnings for excess quantities of waste, inadequate stormwater management and spill response equipment, and inadequate separation of waste.
