California Metal Finishing Companies Fined for Hazardous Waste Violations

LA Testing provides hazardous waste testing services to help companies comply with federal and state regulations and to protect workers and the environment.

Garden Grove, CA

Earlier this fall, it was announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had fined nine California metal finishing companies for breaking federal hazardous waste laws. The companies, located in Southern California and Santa Clara, each paid fines ranging from $2,000 to $48,000.

Metal finishing typically refers to the application of thin coats of metal or other materials to various substrates. The process is widespread in applications ranging from medical equipment to jewelry and is often utilized for aesthetics and to preventing wear and corrosion.

Metal finishing companies use a host of toxic materials in their daily operations. They also tend to generate a number of waste products including acids, cyanide, lead and other heavy metals. Due to the nature of metal finishing, both workers and the environment can be harmed by these toxic materials if safety and environmental regulations are not strictly adhered to by all employees.

During metal finishing operations toxic fumes can cause a host of short term and long term health conditions for workers. Waste products from the procedures are required to be properly labeled and stored. Many chemicals used in the metal finishing process are also flammable and prone to chemical reactions if improperly mixed. Dangers from splashing acids or alkali solutions are a constant threat.

LA Testing, an affiliate of EMSL Analytical and a leading provider of environmental and hazardous waste testing services, provides comprehensive testing solutions for industry. “Anytime a company is dealing with toxic materials it’s important that all safety regulations be followed to prevent accidents and environmental damage,” reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical. “LA Testing has all the latest analytical procedures to test materials to help ensure that both workers and the environment are always protected.”

To learn more about hazardous waste testing services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.
LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Ben Sublasky

National Dir. of Client Services/Operations Manager

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail