Three links in the dangerous goods chain penalised
A driver, transport company and recycling facility have been penalised by NSW authorities after a dangerous goods violation, while an adhesives company is also on notice, the state’s police force reports.
NSW Police reports on September 2, Hawkesbury Highway Patrol detected a Victorian-registered B-double travelling in an area it was not authorised to travel in Mulgrave (Windsor).
“An inspection of the combination established it was carrying dangerous goods consisting of 24.4 tonnes of used lead acid batteries and 1,080 litres of flammable liquid adhesives,” it continues.
“Issues were identified relevant to the vehicle and load, which were rectified before the vehicle could continue.
“As a result of an investigation with the assistance of the NSW Environment Protection Authority, Police issued penalty notices to a number of parties involved in the transport of the dangerous goods.”
How a consignor and transport company were fined for dangerous goods offences
The Victorian-based transport company was penalised $10,000 for failing to ensure dangerous goods are transported safely.
A Wollongong-based industrial recycling facility was issued a $4,000 penalty notice for the offence of ‘employ[ing] a person for task without appropriate supervision’.
Meanwhile, the driver of the heavy vehicle received about $2,000 worth of fines, including:
- Drive without compliant emergency information holder – $260
- Drive dangerous goods inappropriately placarded – $400
- Drive class 2 heavy vehicle not in accordance with authorisation – $674
- Not keep work diary as required – $674
NSW police also notes a Victorian-based adhesives company is also working with police and the EPA to implement changes to its dangerous goods procedures to ensure compliance.
“NSW Police and the NSW Environment Protection Authority will continue to monitor the involved companies and take action where appropriate,” it says.