With most businesses shutting down during the holiday season, the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is reminding everyone there’s a duty to manage pollution issues even when taking a break.
Factories, warehouses, construction sites and many other businesses, including those in Melton and Moorabool, will need to take steps to make sure they have secured their operation, so it does not pose an environmental risk.
“Under the General Environmental Duty, everyone has to act to prevent pollution. That means taking the necessary steps to ensure machinery is properly turned off, chemicals are properly stored and there’s no leaks escaping the site to stormwater drains,” EPA chief executive Lee Miezis said.
“It also means security and fire management systems such as alarms and sprinklers are working and firewater containment systems are operational.
“Construction 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 is properly tethered on site.
“We are working over the holiday period and will enforce compliance, with heavy penalties for anyone who fails to comply.
“The best present we can give to community and the environment is a safe, pollution-free one.”
