Are Baywater's industrial zones protecting the environment as much as they should? EPA Victoria is conducting snap inspections this week to find out.
Officers from EPA Southern Metropolitan Region will be speaking to businesses in Bayswater's industrial zones to see how they are ensuring waste liquids do not leave their premises and enter stormwater drains.
They will also focus on how waste produced by companies is managed, along with providing businesses with a clear understanding of the general environmental duty (GED) which came into effect in July 2021.
"All storm water drains lead to waterways. So, if a business is allowing contaminated liquids to flow into stormwater drains, or don't have reasonable controls in place to stop that, they could face heavy penalties," EPA Southern Metropolitan Regional Manager, Viranga Abeywickrema said.
"Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 every Victorian has a role to play in reducing the risks to our communities and environment from pollution and waste as part of the GED. Every business must be able to show they can manage and control the risks of pollution they create. It could be anything from truck wash bays collecting wastewater to ensuring proper management and storage of chemical containers. But, if you can't show us how you're doing it, we will take action."
EPA is targeting industry sectors that include concrete batching plants, agricultural chemical distributors, motor vehicle and machinery servicing/repairs, chemical handling, intensive animal industries and a variety of other general industrial activities.
"We are particularly concerned that chemicals and wastes are stored and managed properly. We have seen too often the harm that can be done to the environment through the uncontrolled escape of chemicals," Mr Abeywickrema said.
EPA has information online at epa.vic.gov.au/for-business/find-a-topic/store-manage-liquids
