The Environmental Protection Authority Victoria is reminding people to manage pollution issues even when taking a break or a holiday.
Factories, warehouses, construction sites and many other businesses will need to take steps to ensure their operations are secure and don’t pose environmental risks.
EPA Regional Manager Ben Kneenbone said under the General Environmental Duty, everyone has to act to prevent pollution.
“That means taking the necessary steps to ensure machinery is properly turned off, chemicals are properly stored and there are no leaks escaping the site to stormwater drains,” he said.
“It also means security and fire management systems such as alarms and sprinklers are working and firewater containment systems are operational.”
Mr Kneebone said construction sites should also be managing any litter that is created during work.
“That can often be as simple as making sure the skip bin lid is closed and that waffle slab styrene is properly tethered on site,” he said.
“We are working over the holiday period and will enforce compliance, with heavy penalties for anyone who fails to comply.
“The best present we can give to community and the environment is a safe, pollution-free one.”
