Are North Geelong's industrial premises protecting the environment as much as they should? EPA Victoria is conducting snap inspections this week to find out.
Officers from EPA South West Region will be inspecting businesses in the North Geelong industrial area to see how they are managing any risks from their premises to the stormwater system, which flows into Cowies Creek.
They will also focus on how any waste is managed, along with providing businesses with a clear understanding of their responsibilities under the General Environmental Duty (GED) that came into effect in July 2021.
EPA South West Regional Manager, Carolyn Francis says all storm water drains lead to waterways, and in this area that is Cowies Creek
"The creek and Seagull Paddock are popular with local people for jogging, riding and dog walking, there's a volunteer friends group that works to improve natural habitats, and the area supports aquatic and bird life, so there is a lot there that's worth protecting," Ms Francis said.
"These proactive inspections are about prevention; if a business does not have the right controls and work practices to prevent contaminated water entering the stormwater system, they could be having a negative impact on our local waterways," she said.
"Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 everyone has a responsibility to take all reasonable measures to prevent pollution as part of their General Environmental Duty."
"Every business must show they identify, manage and control the risks of pollution from their site. It could be anything from truck wash bays collecting wastewater, and controlling dust and mud, to ensuring proper management and storage of chemical containers,"
EPA will be targeting industry sectors that include concrete batching plants, motor vehicle and machinery servicing/repairs, chemical handling sites 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," Ms Francis said.
Where a site lacks the correct controls, EPA officers will offer advice on how to address the risk. In some cases that will include remedial notices that give detailed instructions with a deadline, backed up by fines for failure to comply.
EPA has plenty of information and resources for businesses on how to meet their obligations at epa.vic.gov.au/for-business/find-your-industry
