HONOLULU – The Hawai’i Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Notice of Violation and Order (NOVO) against Par Hawaii Refining (Par) for multiple violations of the state’s hazardous waste management laws. The action stems from the illegal disposal of hazardous waste, failure to properly determine hazardous waste classification, and improper transportation procedures.
The investigation was triggered by information received from the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (UDEQ), regarding waste shipments received at a non-hazardous waste landfill in Utah. Par had shipped six drums of waste, labeled as “Non-Department of Transportation (DOT)-Regulated (Neutralized Acid Solid)” and “Non-DOT Regulated (Acid Solid Residue).” Subsequent analysis revealed the waste contained toxic levels of chromium, classifying it as hazardous.
According to the DOH, Par violated regulations by shipping the waste before receiving analytical results confirming its hazardous nature. The company also allegedly failed to use the required uniform hazardous waste manifest for transportation and disposed of the waste at an unpermitted facility.
The NOVO levies a fine of $169,500 against Par for the three violations. In addition to the monetary penalty, the DOH has ordered Par to implement corrective actions, including comprehensive employee training, to prevent future incidents. Par has 20 days to respond to the order.
The DOH Solid & Hazardous Waste Branch promotes pollution prevention, waste minimization, and partnerships with waste generators and the regulated community. The branch also oversees the rehabilitation of contaminated lands.