U.S. EPA fines three coatings companies $170,000 for hazardous waste violations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has levied fines totaling $170,000 against Dura Coat Products Inc., International Aerospace Coatings Inc., and Goodwest Rubber Linings Inc. for alleged violations of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which oversees the proper management of hazardous waste.

The Southern California-based companies manufacture or use paints, coatings, seals, and linings used in metal roofing, mining, chemical, and aerospace industries.

In June and July 2018, the EPA made unannounced inspections at the Riverside, Victorville, and Rancho Cucamonga facilities. Agency inspectors noted multiple hazardous waste violations, including:

• Failure to make accurate hazardous waste determinations.
• Improperly sealed waste containers which could leak volatile organic compounds.
• Storage of hazardous waste beyond the 90 days allowed.
• Improperly labeled hazardous waste containers.
• Failure to develop and implement an adequate hazardous waste management training program.
• Failure to conduct hazardous waste inspections.
• Failure to provide emergency equipment in the hazardous waste storage area.

Each company has corrected the violations.