Press Release  MassDEP Penalizes Facility in Springfield for Hazardous Waste and Air Pollution Violations

BOSTON — he Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has issued a $15,000 penalty to Associated Electro-Mechanics, Inc., (AEM) for violating air pollution and hazardous waste regulations at its facility located at 185 Rowland Street in Springfield.  

MassDEP discovered the violations during a March 2025 inspection, which revealed that the company was operating a solvent metal cleaning operation that had the potential to emit one or more tons of air pollutants without a permit. AEM was also improperly managing hazardous waste and waste oil. MassDEP observed that the facility had held waste oil onsite for more than the allowed 180 days before shipping it offsite.  

“Compliance with environmental regulations is an ongoing requirement and requires constant attention,” said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP’s Western Regional Office in Springfield. “This action sends a message to this and similar businesses that environmental compliance must be a priority.” 

Under the terms of MassDEP’s consent order, AEM agrees to pay $7,500 of the penalty and ensure that all violations cited are corrected. MassDEP will suspend the remaining $7,500 provided AEM complies with the terms and requirements of the order. The company has begun taking steps to correct the violations. 

###