West Bridgewater Company Assessed $5,459 Penalty
for Violating State Environmental Regulations

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) assessed a $5,459 penalty to Shawmut Corporation of West Bridgewater for violating state environmental regulations at its 208 Manley Street location.

On August 18, 2008, MassDEP conducted a routine site inspection that revealed that the company had installed and was operating a used Perkins Emergency Generator at the site. However, Shawmut Corporation failed to obtain a certificate of conformity documenting that the generator complies with federal emission limitations. The company has since disconnected the generator.

Inspectors also observed that waste oil containers had not been properly labeled and a waste accumulation area wasn't appropriately marked. A review of the company's 2007 manifests indicated that the facility acted as a treatment, storage and disposal facility without a license to do so.  

"Massachusetts' hazardous waste regulations are very specific regarding the handling and storage of this material," said David Johnston, acting director of MassDEP's Southeast Regional Office in Lakeville. "It is important that hazardous waste be managed appropriately to ensure the safety of workers, the public, and the environment."

As part of the consent order, Shawmut must update its Emergency Contingency Plan, perform weekly inspections of the site, and train employees who manage hazardous waste.

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