Hawaii Companies Fined for Air Pollution Violations

The Hawai‘i Department of Health Clean Air Branch (DOH) has issued Notices and Finding of Violation and Orders (NOVOs) for air pollution against three companies. These companies have or had the option to request a hearing to contest their alleged violations and penalties.

Halo Halo, LLC dba Al Phillips Dry Cleaners, in Kailua, O‘ahu was cited for late submittals of numerous written reports such as compliance certifications, annual emission and semi-annual reports. The violations were discovered during an inspection of their dry cleaning facility and a fine of $10,600 has been issued.

ShredCo, LLC in Lihue, Kaua‘i, was cited for late submittals of their semi-annual and annual emission reports on their portable grinding and screening plant. The violations were discovered during record reviews and a fine of $3,400 has been paid.

Garden Island Mortuary, Ltd., in Lawai, Kaua‘i, was cited for late submittals of their semi-annual reports and annual fee on their crematory units. The violations were discovered during record reviews and a fine of $3,700 has been issued.

The NOVOs are listed at:

http://health.hawaii.gov/cab/clean-air-branch/notice-and-finding-of-violation-downloads-pdf/

In general, fines are assessed to remove any economic benefit a company may have gained by not complying with their permit requirements. All fines are paid into a revolving fund that helps prevent or minimize damage to the environment.

The Clean Air Branch (CAB) protects the people and environment of Hawaii by monitoring air quality and regulating businesses that release pollutants into the air. The CAB reviews and approves air permits, evaluates and enforces state and federal air standards, conducts inspections, and investigates reported incidents related to outdoor air quality. Through the air permit process, the DOH ensures companies comply with state and federal emission standards to minimize air pollution impacts on the public.