EPA Region 7 Fines Hawkins Inc. of Camanche, Iowa, for Alleged Hazardous Waste Violations
LENEXA, KAN. (SEPT. 9, 2024) – Hawkins Inc. of Camanche, Iowa, will pay $51,158 in civil penalties and purchase equipment for local emergency responders to resolve 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, EPA determined that Hawkins Inc. qualified as a “large quantity generator” of hazardous waste but failed to meet the requirements of a facility producing that much waste. These included accumulating hazardous waste for longer than 90 days; failing to prepare a contingency plan to respond to emergencies; and failing to make arrangements with local emergency responders in the event of a release or threat of a release of hazardous waste.
Because the company failed to meet these requirements, it was operating as an unpermitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility.
In response to the inspection findings, Hawkins Inc. agreed to take the necessary steps to return its facility to compliance.
“This settlement demonstrates EPA’s commitment to protecting communities from releases of hazardous waste, especially those already burdened by historical pollution,” said EPA Region 7 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Director David Cozad. “The Agency is also committed to leveling the playing field for companies that comply with federal law.”
Hawkins Inc.’s settlement with 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.
EPA identified the community surrounding the Hawkins facility as a potentially sensitive area because of exposures to particulate matter, air toxics respiratory hazards, and wastewater discharges. EPA is strengthening enforcement in overburdened communities to address disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of industrial operations on vulnerable populations.
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act creates the framework for proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste.
Learn more about RCRA.
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