A recent careless and illegal act by two employees of a Maryland company resulted in steep fines and a significant environmental hazard.
The employees were caught dumping a truckload of grease and pollutants into a manhole that connected directly to a drinking water reservoir in Maryland. This reckless decision was made to avoid a two-hour round trip to the designated wastewater treatment facility in Washington, D.C., according to investigators with the Attorney General’s Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit and the Montgomery County Department of Environment.
The incident, which was caught on a surveillance camera outside a 7-Eleven, prompted an immediate investigation after a concerned resident reported the dumping.
While the JPG Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. employees faced individual fines and probation, the company bore the responsibility of cleaning up the contamination—an effort that cost nearly $70,000.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of properly handling hazardous waste and the severe consequences of cutting corners. As a business owner or manager of a facility that generates hazardous waste, here’s what you can do to help prevent your company from landing in the headlines.
Illegal dumping is not just an environmental crime. It’s a public health hazard.
The manhole where the employees disposed of the waste connected to Ashton Pond and a storm drain system leading to the Triadelphia Reservoir, a crucial drinking water source for more than half a million Maryland residents.
By allowing pollutants to enter the water system, the employees' actions put the health of an entire community at risk.
Like states across the country, Maryland officials take illegal dumping seriously. The state’s Department of Environmental Protection defines it as the deliberate disposal of waste in nonapproved locations, including storm drains, waterways or on the ground. Offenders can face fines, probation, or even jail time. In this case, both employees pleaded guilty and received fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, payable to the Maryland Clean Water Fund.
While JPG Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. was not criminally charged, the company received citations and was required to finance the cleanup effort. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown condemned the act, emphasizing that illegal hazardous waste disposal is a serious offense that endangers public health and will not be tolerated.
If you manage a factory or business that generates hazardous waste, you play a critical role in preventing incidents like
Proper waste disposal is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a fundamental responsibility to protect the environment and the community. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure hazardous waste at your facility is appropriately handled.
Follow Legal Disposal Requirements
Always adhere to federal, state, and local regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal. These laws exist to prevent contamination of natural resources and protect public health.
Train Employees on Hazardous Waste Handling
Employees should be educated on the dangers of improper waste disposal and trained in compliance procedures. Clear policies should be in place to ensure waste is always disposed of correctly, and regular hazardous waste training should be part of your protocols.
Use Proper Storage and Labeling
Hazardous waste must be stored in designated containers that meet regulatory standards. Proper labeling helps prevent accidental mishandling and ensures compliance with safety guidelines.
Work with a Certified Hazardous Waste Provider
One of the biggest mistakes businesses can make is leaving waste disposal in the hands of untrained employees. A certified hazardous waste provider ensures that waste is transported and disposed of correctly, reducing liability and preventing costly violations.
Implement a Waste Management Plan
Establish a structured plan for waste collection, transportation and disposal. Regular audits can help identify potential risks and areas for improvement.
When selecting a hazardous waste transporter, businesses should carefully evaluate their options. The right provider will not only ensure compliance but also offer peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider:
The JPG Plumbing and Mechanical incident serves as a powerful reminder that improper hazardous waste disposal can lead to financial penalties, reputational damage and serious environmental harm.
By following best practices, working with certified waste disposal professionals and ensuring compliance, businesses can avoid costly mistakes and contribute to a safer, healthier environment.