The state’s environmental watchdog is warning businesses and construction sites closing for the Christmas holiday period to make sure their sites, facilities and equipment are properly secured.
The Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) said factories, warehouses, construction sites and many other businesses needed to ensure their operations were secure so they don’t pose an environmental risk.
Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay are home to some of Victoria’s largest industrial precincts.
EPA chief executive Lee Miezis said everyone had to act to prevent pollution.
“That means taking the necessary steps to ensure machinery is properly turned off, chemicals are properly stored and there are no leaks escaping the site to stormwater drains,” Mr Miezis said.
“It also means security and fire management systems such as alarms and sprinklers are working and firewater containment systems are operational.”
Mr Miezis said building sites should also be managing any litter they create.
“That can often be as simple as making sure the skip bin lid is closed and that waffle slab styrene in particular is properly tethered on site,“ he said.
“EPA officers are working over the holiday period and will enforce compliance, with heavy penalties for anyone not talking their responsibilities seriously.“
EPA has published a guide for workers in the construction industry whose role involves site planning or environmental management, to help them meet their environmental and public health obligations.
Details: www.epa.vic.gov.au/about-epa/publications/1834
