The Environment Protection Authority [EPA] Victoria has fined a Dandenong South transport services company and a driver, who were found to be responsible for spilling 600 litres of milk into a storm drain in Footscray.
The EPA also found that Vincent Transport Services and the driver of the truck were not adequately prepared to manage a spill.
On Wednesday, June 22, Vincent Transport Services was making a delivery at a car park on Maribyrnong Street in Footscray.
CCTV footage has shown the truck reversing with its rear doors open, when a container falls from the rear of the truck and bursts open, with 600 litres of milk then spilling into a storm drain.
The footage then showed the driver jumping from his cab and surveying the scene, but there was no evidence of the driver using a spill kit or taking coordinated action to deal with the incident.
EPA West Metro Manager Steve Lansdell said the driver should have secured his load appropriately.
“Milk in that quantity entering a waterway, even a large one like the Maribyrnong River, can do harm to the environment and marine life,” he said.
“We understand accidents can happen, but transporters need to prepare for the possibility and be ready.
“If they don’t, they can face a penalty.”
The EPA fined Vincent Transport Services and the driver $5500 and $727 respectively.
Matthew Sims
