Government agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), institute and enforce policies that property and business owners must follow to protect the health and safety of others as well as our environment. These government agencies also impose penalties when entities violate these regulations.
Even if you don’t believe that your business is impacted by the regulations, it’s essential not to ignore correspondence notifying you of potential violations of environmental protection violations. Your failure to promptly reply to such allegations may result in significant penalties for your business.
What do government agencies classify as hazardous waste?
The EPA keeps a listing of over 500 materials they classify as hazardous waste. Batteries and paint are just two of these items. Government agencies also classify industrial waste from auto repair shops, manufacturing plants, dry cleaners and waste treatment or medical care facilities as hazardous. Many of the substances on that EPA list are potentially flammable or toxic and come in different forms, including solids, liquids and sludges.
You may face penalties for failing to implement disposal strategies
All companies are expected to identify and implement hazardous waste disposal solutions no matter what industry they’re part of. Many of these options are costly, which is why some business owners avoid taking these steps and hope that they don’t get caught.
You can defend yourself against unfounded allegations. Government agencies may also provide you with an opportunity to remediate any violations that you have. An attorney who is experienced in this field can advise you of strategies that are available to you in your case.
