A Campbellfield plastics recycling business has been banned from accepting industrial waste after an Environment Protection Authority (EPA) inspection uncovered dangerously large and poorly managed stockpiles posing a major fire risk.
EPA issued a prohibition notice to Kangaroo Plastics Technology Pty Ltd after officers discovered more than 4500 cubic metres of baled plastic recyclables packed into oversized and overcrowded piles at the company’s Northbourne Road premises.
The site also lacked key fire safety infrastructure, including adequate access to firefighting equipment., according to the EPA.
EPA northern metropolitan regional manager Chloe Bernett said the stockpiles posed an “immediate risk of severe and uncontrollable fire”.
“Our inspection showed the site had stockpiles that were too big, lacked separation, and were close to neighbouring properties. These conditions would make it incredibly difficult to contain a fire if one broke out,” Ms Bernett said.
Bunkers made of shipping containers were found to be overfilled with plastic, while the proximity of baled plastic and paper to surrounding businesses added to the fire hazard, EPA said.
EPA officers also noted an obstructed fire hose, further compromising safety.
“Fires involving plastics generate thick smoke, hazardous air pollutants, oil and firewater runoff, which can damage waterways and endanger public health,” Ms Bernett said.
The company has been ordered to comply with EPA’s strict fire safety conditions, including reducing stockpile sizes, increasing separation between them, and ensuring firefighting gear is accessible, by August 29.
Until then, Kangaroo Plastics is prohibited from receiving any further industrial waste.
