WSU reaches agreement with EPA on 2014 violations
The EPA conducted a compliance evaluation inspection at WSU in June 2014 and found non-compliant practices in the handling, storage, labeling and removal of hazardous wastes. Those items were corrected in 2014. The consent agreement and final order were filed this week.
Violations cited in the 2014 inspection and subsequently corrected included failure to conduct a hazardous waste determination; operation of a hazardous waste facility without a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act permit or interim status; treatment and disposal of hazardous waste without a permit; failure to comply with disposal requirements; and failure to comply with used oil storage requirements.
In addition to correcting the problems, the university agreed to pay a fine of $98,578 and perform supplemental environmental projects for the university and Wichita Public Schools (USD 259).
The university project is to acquire and use a hazardous material computer inventory system with capabilities for electronic chemical and hazardous waste tracking, processing and disposal records.
The university also worked to benefit the local community by designing a project, approved by the EPA and USD 259, for USD 259.
The university will purchase a hazardous material computer inventory system for the school system. The university will also hire a qualified contractor to perform a one-time removal, transportation and disposal of hazardous waste generated at three public high schools and one facility building located within the Wichita school district.
This project was undertaken in connection with the settlement of an enforcement action taken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to enforce federal laws.
# # # # #
Contact: Joe Kleinsasser, director, News and Media Relations, 316-978-3013, cell 316-204-8266 or joe.kleinsasser@wichita.edu.