University of Guam Fined $10,000 for Hazardous Waste Violations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency yesterday fined the University of Guam $10,000 for hazardous waste and other waste management violations at its facility located at University of Guam Station in Mangilao, Guam.

Like many school campuses, the university's facility generates and stores hazardous waste such as waste varnish and flammable paint waste. The facility also generates and stores used oil and other wastes including spent lead acid batteries and fluorescent lamps.

"All facilities that generate hazardous waste must properly contain, manage, and dispose of their wastes," said Nancy Lindsay, director for Waste Programs of the EPA's Pacific Southwest Region. "Failure to do so jeopardizes the safety of the community, workers, and the environment, as spilled waste can contaminate soil and ocean ecosystems. This settlement sends a message that noncompliance is not acceptable."

EPA found that the university also failed to:

  • have a contingency plan to respond to used oil and other waste spills, and maintain emergency equipment;
  • properly identify its hazardous waste, store hazardous waste in proper containers without visible leaks, and prevent the possibility of hazardous waste spills;
  • clearly mark or label containers of universal waste; and
  • manage waste fluorescent lamps and account for how long the waste had been accumulated.

The waste has since been shipped for disposal to a proper hazardous waste disposal facility as required by the EPA's hazardous waste regulations.

For more information on EPA's hazardous waste program visit www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/hazwaste.htm.

Download Center

  • Hand Safety Program

    Hand injuries are the #1 preventable industrial accident worldwide. In REThink Hand Safety, the most comprehensive book on hand safety, you'll learn how top companies have reduced hand injuries by up to 90% and what the most successful hand safety programs have in common. Get your free copy today.

  • Free 1-on-1 Consultations

    Get a free meeting with a Superior Glove hand safety expert and learn how to have less hand injuries, lower PPE costs, and increase worker productivity. 1-on-1 consultations provide you with personalized advice and recommendations for your specific needs and concerns.

  • Glove 101 Guide

    In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled all the key information you need to know about safety gloves to help you make informed decisions when choosing gloves for your workers. Whether you're new to the world of safety gloves or an experienced pro, this guide has something for everyone.

  • Sample Program

    Find the right safety gloves for your team and try before you buy—in just 3 easy steps! Simply add the products to your sample box, complete the request form, and wait for your samples to arrive at no cost to you.

  • Cut Protection Product Guide

    Find the right safety gloves for your workers to protect them from cut hazards. This guide offers a wide selection of gloves, including ultra-thin gloves with the industry’s maximum cut resistance for unbeatable dexterity and touch sensitivity.

  • Superior Glove

Featured Whitepaper

OH&S Digital Edition

  • OHS Magazine Digital Edition - February March 2023

    February March 2023

    Featuring:

    • IH: GAS DETECTION
      Does Real-Time Data Enhance Gas Detection Programs?
    • PPE: HEARING PROTECTION
      Hearing Protection: The Dangers of Non-Compliance
    • PPE: PROTECTIVE APPAREL
      Personal Protective Equipment: The Pains of Staying Pain-Free
    • CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
      Reframing Eyewear: Meeting Workforce Needs with Technology and Advancements
    View This Issue