U.S. EPA fines Kop Coat, Inc. $126,000

LOS ANGELES - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined Los Angeles-based Kop Coat, Inc. $126,000 for violating hazardous waste requirements of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. During a 2007 inspection of the facility, EPA investigators found that Kop Coat, Inc., an industrial coatings manufacturer, had multiple hazardous waste violations. The plant, located at 5431 District Blvd., is no longer manufacturing. "Hazardous waste generating companies, such as Kop Coat, Inc., must follow all federal regulations to protect their employees, surrounding communities and the environment," said Rich Vaille, associate director for the Waste Management division in the EPAs Pacific Southwest region. "Proper storage, handling, and preparation for emergencies involving hazardous waste are critical responsibilities for all firms, regardless of their size." Kop Coat, Inc.: · stored hazardous waste without a permit; · failed to meet emission standards for tanks and containers; · failed to provide an internal communications or alarm system capable of furnishing immediate emergency instruction to facility personnel or local first responders; · failed to perform weekly inspections; and · failed to properly provide and maintain personnel training. During the 2007 inspection, EPA staff found acetone and toluene, being stored improperly at the facility. Exposure to solvents such as acetone and toluene can affect breathing and cause vomiting. The EPA's hazardous waste rules require facilities to properly store, label and seal hazardous waste containers. Facilities must also have properly trained staff, as improperly stored hazardous waste can potentially spill and pose a risk to workers and the environment. For more information on U.S. EPAs hazardous waste program visit: www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/hazwaste.htm .