Metal scrap recycling site in Lau Fau Shan, Yuen Long, convicted for dust emissions causing nuisance
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During an inspection last July, EPD enforcement officers found that the recycling site had not properly covered or enclosed the metal stock to prevent dust emissions, which might affect pedestrians and nearby residents. A statutory notice was issued under the APCO requesting the recycling site to take remedial measures. Upon three inspections after the deadline as stipulated in the statutory notice, the department found that the recycling site failed to adopt improvement measures and thus violated the requirement of the notice. The EPD then initiated prosecution against the recycling site and its director for three violations against the statutory notice requirements.
The EPD's recent inspections revealed that the recycling site had properly covered or enclosed the metal stock, and there was no further violation of statutory notices.
An EPD spokesman reminded operators of metal recycling sites to properly cover or enclose metal material storage piles to prevent dust emissions, and take effective measures such as well-equipped automatic sprinkler systems to prevent dust emissions. Upon receipt of a statutory notice issued by the EPD, operators must comply with the notice requirements to carry out relevant improvement works within the specified time.
According to the APCO, anyone who fails to comply with the statutory notice requirements commits an offence. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 on first conviction. A maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on subsequent convictions.
Ends/Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Issued at HKT 16:55
Issued at HKT 16:55
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