A motor wrecker at Hoppers Crossing has copped a fine of more than $5,500 from EPA Victoria, after EPA officers found leaking oil, clogged stormwater pits and the smell of petrol at his Forsyth Rd business.
The Environment Protection Authority ordered the company to fix the problems and issued a fine of $5,548 when it failed to comply.
Officers found Atlas Auto Pty Ltd, trading as Werribee Motor Wreckers, did not have controls to stop petrol and oil leaking into stormwater drains.
The drains lead to the Forsyth Road Drain and local wetlands.
There was a smell of petrol, engines and gearboxes leaking oil, stormwater grates blocked by oily mud, and no controls for contaminated stormwater, the EPA said in a statement.
EPA Western Metropolitan Regional Manager, Stephen Lansdell says the waterways of the west face many hazards, including fuels and oils.
“The wetland near this property is in good condition and we want it to stay that way. Half of the waterways around Hoppers Crossing are at considerable risk from metals and oils,” Mr Lansdell said.
“EPA has been proactive in protecting waterways in the west with more than 400 snap inspections of industrial premises this year. We have issued advice, remedial notices, and fines where necessary,” he said.
