Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) officers have taken immediate steps to reduce a potential fire risk at a Somerton plastic waste resource recycling facility after attending to inspect reports that rubbish was escaping the premises.
Officers attended the site after receiving the reports from the public about waste escaping the boundaries of the facility at Advanced Circular Polymers Pty Ltd (ACP) at 235 Hume Highway, Somerton.
“Our officers went to look into the litter waste reports but while there, observed stockpiled combustible waste materials not being appropriately stored. EPA quickly reattended with Fire Rescue Victoria officers and took action to immediately reduce the risks to human health and the environment,” said EPA North Metro Regional Manager Jeremy Settle.
“ACP has been issued with a notice that prohibits them accepting any more types of combustible recyclable waste materials until they meet their compliance requirements.
“EPA has a zero tolerance for fire risk in particular and, through its Fire Prevention Program, has actively inspected 310 sites in the last eleven months issuing 218 notices.
“Our message to business is clear: you must manage the risks at your business or EPA will enforce the regulations.”
