Downer EDI Mining will be hit with a $15,000 fine after a diesel leak at a Hunter blasting facility the NSW EPA attributed to poor maintenance at the site.
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During a routine June inspection of Singleton explosive manufacturers officers discovered a diesel bund valve buried in the soil, allowing a small leak. The EPA found it likely a number of spills occurred due to the buried valve.
Officers also noted chemical storage conditions on the site had potential for soil contamination, and branded stormwater diversions inadequate. The company and environmental watchdog will work on a pollution reduction program for the site.
Hunter EPA director Karen Marler said the expectation of proper storage at chemical storage facilities was due to the heightened risk they could pose. “While the fine is appropriate for this matter, just as important will be the action that Downer takes to ensure that it improves its environmental management to avoid similar problems in the future,” she said.