Owner of motorcycle workshop in Wan Chai convicted and fined for illegal handling of spent lubricating oil
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The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) conducted a blitz inspection at Wood Road in Wan Chai last November. It was found that the motorcycle workshop concerned illegally deposited spent lubricating oil, which is classified as chemical waste, on the pavement outside the workshop and the spent lubricating oil was not properly labelled and stored in accordance with the statuary requirements. After the EPD's investigation, it was confirmed that the owner of the maintenance workshop was not registered with the department as a chemical waste producer. After evidence gathering, the EPD initiated prosecution against the owner concerned for contravening the Regulation.
An EPD spokesman explained that spent lubricating oil generated by vehicle maintenance workshops is classified as chemical waste and contains various toxic chemicals. Improper handling of such waste will cause the spent lubricating oil to leak into nearby drains and soil, which pollutes the environment and causes harm to public health.
The spokesman reminded all garage operators and workers engaged in the vehicle repairing business that they should register as chemical waste producers with the EPD in accordance with the above Regulation. Chemical waste must be properly packaged, labelled and stored, and has to be collected by licensed chemical waste collectors for delivery to licensed chemical waste disposal facilities for treatment. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment.
Members of the public may visit the EPD's website for more information about the control of chemical waste: www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc.html.
Ends/Monday, June 11, 2018
Issued at HKT 15:00
Issued at HKT 15:00
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