Oregon DEQ Assesses Fine to Scrap Dealer

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued a $17,231 penalty to Metal Movers LLC for a variety of hazardous and solid waste violations at its metal recovery business in Helix, Ore.

The DEQ claims that Metal Movers illegally disposed of solid waste and failed to properly clean up spills from oil and automotive fluids. The company also is alleged to have improperly labeled and stored containers of used oil and of failing to determine whether some of its wastes were hazardous.

A DEQ property inspection in August 2012 allegedly found piles of solid waste, including metals, vehicle components, plastics and glass. The same inspection also allegedly found that oil, gasoline, and other automotive fluids, as well as contaminants from broken lead-acid batteries, had been released to the soil.

Three months after being told of the violations, Metal Movers had allegedly not acted to remedy the situation.

DEQ issued the penalty due to the fact that violations pose a risk to human health and the environment. The accumulated materials and improper storage can create fire risks and may harbor disease-spreading pests. By issuing the penalty, DEQ also ensures a level playing field for businesses who willingly comply with environmental regulations.

In addition to the penalty, DEQ also ordered Metal Movers to remove and properly dispose of all solid waste from the property and clean up all soil contamination.

Metal Movers was given until May 9 to appeal the penalty.