Iowa manufacturer to pay $51,000 fine for alleged hazardous waste violations

Hawkins Inc., a chemical manufacturer based in Camanche, Iowa, will pay $51,158 in civil penalties and purchase equipment for local emergency response to address alleged violations of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA ).

The company manufactures, distributes and sells industrial chemicals, including bleach.

During a May 2023 inspection, the EPA determined that Hawkins Inc. it qualified as a “large quantity generator” of hazardous waste, but did not meet the requirements for a facility that produces that much waste. These included the accumulation of hazardous waste for more than 90 days; failure to prepare an emergency plan to respond to emergency situations; and failure to make arrangements with local emergency response agencies in the event of a release or threat of a release of hazardous waste.

Because the company did not meet these requirements, it operated as an unlicensed hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facility.

In response to the inspection findings, Hawkins Inc. agreed to take the necessary steps to bring its facility back into compliance.

“This settlement demonstrates EPA’s commitment to protecting communities from hazardous waste releases, particularly those already burdened by historical pollution,” said EPA Region 7 Division of Assurance and Compliance Director David Cozad. “The agency is also committed to leveling the playing field for companies that comply with federal law.”

Hawkins Inc. Agreement with the EPA includes the purchase of approximately $38,610 in emergency response equipment to be issued to the Clinton County Emergency Management Unit, Camanche Volunteer Fire Department, Davenport Hazmat Department and Camanche Police Department.

Source: EPA

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Iowa Pollution Manufacturing