EPA puts Campbellfield demolition company on notice

The risk of fire at scrap yards, including those taking demolition and construction waste as well as auto waste, is an EPA focus. Warnings have been issued to the industry that failure to properly manage their waste would result in EPA action with the latest being handed to Monash Demolition Aust Pty Ltd in Bolinda Rd, Campbellfield.

An inspection by EPA officers found a stockpile of mixed waste, containing combustible material such as timber, cardboard, fabric and plastic. The stockpile was approximately 50 meters long by 30 meters wide by 6 meters high and had restricted access should emergency vehicles like a fire truck, need to reach sections of it.

Monash Demolition has now been issued a prohibition notice which means the business must cease accepting combustible waste until the waste stockpile is reduced and emergency access created.

“Fire is a known risk from the storage of this kind of combustible material and has the potential to cause harm to both human health and the environment,” said EPA North Metropolitan Regional Manager Steve Riley.

“Major fires involving it can be hard to control and result in both short and long-term impacts for the health of people in surrounding communities and the environment.

“Common hazards stemming from a fire event involving this kind of waste include smoke and other hazardous air pollutants along with oil, firewater and other leachates entering the surrounding environment, including sensitive receptors such as waterways.

“Until Monash Demolition is properly managing the quantity and storage of the materials on its site, it will not be allowed to take in anymore.”

Information about management of combustible recycling and waste materials can be found at Management and storage of combustible recyclable and waste materials guidance | epa.vic.gov.au