THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Saturday revealed that waste oil emanating from an unauthorised facility owned by National Hardware is affecting residents at Coverden, East Bank Demerara.

A press release from the EPA noted that the agency received a report on Friday last that a considerable amount of waste oil was being released from an operation at Coverden.
As a consequence, the EPA’s emergency response protocol was activated and a team of environmental officers arrived at the location to conduct an investigation.

“This facility is manufacturing concrete bricks and is not authorised by the EPA. The volume of waste oil released is undetermined at this time as further investigation is needed in order to establish the amount,” the EPA said.

The agency’s probe further found that seven residences are being affected by the waste oil release. An initial site clean-up is being carried out by workers of the company and the EPA is assisting them with this process.

“The EPA will issue a Clean-up Order directing the operator to clean-up all contaminants. Further, a Prohibition Notice will also be issued for the operator to cease all activities at the location. The agency will also determine other enforcement actions against the developer,” the release noted.

According to the EPA, it will continue its investigations in conjunction with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and other relevant authorities.

“Residents within the affected area are advised to limit their use of ignition sources (cigarette smoking, lighters etc.) at this time. Further information will be provided upon the conclusion of the investigation,” the EPA said.