ITHACA, NY – Safety-Kleen Corporation, formerly known as Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc., has been penalized for knowingly mislabeling hazardous waste containing mercury, a violation of federal environmental law. The case, originating from an incident in 1998 but resolved in 2007, highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring proper handling and documentation of dangerous materials.
According to court documents, on June 3, 1998, a Safety-Kleen employee collected hazardous waste from a facility in Ithaca, New York. Subsequent analysis revealed the waste was contaminated with mercury. Despite knowing this, Safety-Kleen employees intentionally failed to accurately designate the waste on the required Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) manifest. The critical omission was the “D009” code, specifically identifying mercury contamination – a deliberate act to conceal the true nature of the hazardous material.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigated the incident, uncovering evidence of intentional mislabeling. Such practices not only violate environmental regulations but also pose significant risks to transportation workers, disposal facilities, and potentially the public. Accurate manifesting is crucial for tracking hazardous waste from “cradle to grave,” ensuring it is managed safely and responsibly.
Legal Ramifications
On August 15, 2007, Safety-Kleen was formally charged with one count of violating 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(3), a section of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) that specifically addresses knowingly making false statements related to hazardous waste management. The company entered a guilty plea and, following sentencing, was ordered to pay a $400 special assessment fee alongside a substantial federal fine of $250,000. While the financial penalties represent a measure of accountability, environmental advocates argue that such fines often remain insufficient to deter larger corporations from similar violations.
Industry Concerns
This case is not isolated. The hazardous waste management industry has faced scrutiny over inadequate tracking and reporting practices. The EPA continues to emphasize the importance of stringent compliance with RCRA regulations, conducting regular inspections and pursuing enforcement actions against companies that prioritize profit over environmental safety. GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime and hold polluters accountable.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Safety-Kleen Corporation (formerly Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc.)
- Location: Ithaca, New York
- Year of Incident: 1998
- Year of Resolution: 2007
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(3) – Knowingly making false statements regarding hazardous waste.
- Specific Violation: Failure to properly designate mercury-contaminated waste (RCRA code D009) on the hazardous waste manifest.
- Penalties: $400 special assessment fee and $250,000 in federal fines.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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