Press Release  MassDEP Penalizes USA Waste for Delayed Reporting of Hydraulic Oil Spill

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has issued an administrative consent order and penalty to USA Waste and Recycling, Inc. (USA Waste) for violating oil spill notification regulations. The Connecticut-based solid waste recycling and disposal corporation has been fined $14,375 for not immediately notifying public safety agencies of a hydraulic oil spill.

"Reporting spills of this much hazardous materials is more than a regulatory obligation, but a vital step in safeguarding both the environment and public health," said Michael Gorski, Director of MassDEP’s Western Regional Office in Springfield. "The sooner you notify public safety agencies, the quicker these threats and risks can be properly contained."

The incident occurred when a vehicle’s hydraulic system failed, releasing an estimated 50 gallons of oil in a parking lot near 770 Bay Street in Springfield. Although USA Waste initiated cleanup efforts, they failed to notify public safety agencies within two hours, as required by law. MassDEP became aware of the spill almost four hours later when an independent emergency response contractor sought approval for cleanup actions. MassDEP personnel immediately responded to the location upon learning of the spill, verified that the spill exceeded the reportable ten-gallon regulatory threshold, and oversaw the necessary approvals for additional cleanup. USA Waste did not formally report the spill to MassDEP until nearly five hours after it occurred.

Under the terms of MassDEP’s order, USA Waste must pay a $14,375 fine. MassDEP will suspend $3,875 of the fine contingent on the company’s compliance with all terms of the order. USA Waste, for its part, has completed all required cleanup and documentation, and has re-trained its employees on spill notification and response protocols.

MassDEP's mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth’s natural resources – air, water and land – to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission, MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth; to provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

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