EPA v. University of the Virgin Islands

Case summary

Respondent failed to make hazardous waste determinations for numerous waste streams, each of which was regularly generated by Respondent in the course of carrying out its normal maintenance, research, examination, and testing activities: spent fluorescent, metal halide, and high-pressure sodium bulbs; and and high pressure sodium bulbs; paints and solvents; broken mercury thermometers; spent computer and computer components; and old chemicals. Respondent failed to comply with conditions for accumulating hazardous waste without a permit and thus did not qualify for the exemption from the permit requirement; Respondent stored more than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste and stored containers of hazardous waste without any markings indicating their contents or length of storage; Respondent failed to conduct the required weekly inspections of the hazardous waste storage area to search for leaks or other conditions which may cause uncontrolled releases of hazardous waste; Respondent failed to ensure that its employees were properly trained in hazardous waste and emergency management; Respondent failed to operate the facility to minimize the possibility of a fire, explosion, or any unplanned sudden or non-sudden release of hazardous waste or hazardous waste constituents to the air, soil or surface water which could threaten human health or the environment through pervasive unsafe waste storage and management practices throughout the facility. This Case Action seeks to bring a halt to the aforementioned activities and seeks compliance with SQG requirements.

Defendants (1)

• University of the Virgin IslandsNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (2)

• UNIVERSITY OF VIRGIN ISLANDS

  2 BREWERS BAY, ST THOMAS, VI, 00802-6004

  Registry ID: 110042296404

• UNIVERSITY VIRGIN ISLANDS - ST CROIX

  RR 2, KINGSHILL, VI, 00850-9781

  Registry ID: 110020120144

Statutes cited

• RCRA 3002 — Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous Waste

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• University of the Virgin Islandsentered 2006-12-07

  Primary law: RCRA

  Federal penalty: $20,000 · SEP: $95,142

Timeline (4 milestones)

• 2005-12-23Complaint Filed/Proposed Order
• 2006-01-17Enforcement Action Data Entered
• 2006-12-07Final Order Issued
• 2006-12-07Enforcement Action Closed