EPA fines West Wodonga's Drum Traders Recycling

Environmental Protection Authority North East regional manager Renee Palmer said the Drum Traders Recycling premises was directly across the drainage channel from nearby homes.

During a routine inspection EPA officers found waste motor oil, used cooking oil, oil filters from vehicles and kerosene-based fuel from an aircraft all stored on the property.

Some liquids were kept in rusty, leaking drums, the EPA says.

"EPA officers inspecting the site detected a very strong odour and found stains on the ground that suggested the spilling of hydrocarbons," Ms Palmer said.

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EPA officers took liquid and soil samples for testing and issued enforceable notices requiring a clean-up and a variety of pollution prevention measures.

The West Wodonga company was fined $1983.

EPA will conduct follow up inspections of the premises.

"The business has been fined under Section 27 of the Environment Protection Act 1970 for occupying a scheduled premises where prescribed industrial waste residue and used oil filters were being stored, handled and reprocessed without an EPA licence," Ms Palmer said.

"The clear message to businesses is that if you fail to comply with EPA requirements to protect the community and the environment, you will be held accountable."

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.

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