The SA Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has begun a targeted operation on truck drivers who aren’t properly covering their waste in transport.
Operation Cover-Up has observed 25 travelling on Port Wakefield Road on the first day of action, all of which were found to be compliant.
Related stories:
- South Australia strengthens its EPA with new Act
- TruckSafe operators ready for Chain of Responsibility changes
- C&D waste trucks targeted with Operation Cover-Up
SA EPA Acting Manager Investigations and Waste Tania Kiley said it is promising that these transporters are adhering to the law.
“This is a positive sign that truck drivers and waste companies are getting the message. Failing to properly cover waste while transporting material to waste management facilities poses a health and safety risk to the community,” Ms Kiley said.
“The type of waste found in waste vehicles includes demolition material amongst other waste items.”
“This can create a hazard for other road uses, the community, and can also lead to waste ending up in our stormwater and local waterways,” she said.
The maximum penalty for the offence is $30,000 or an expiation fee of $160.
“The EPA will be continuing Operation Cover-Up in coming weeks and those that do not comply with their obligations under the Environment Protection Act will be issued an expiation notice,” Ms Kiley said.
“We began our operation on Port Wakefield Road this year in response to numerous community complaints about litter on public roadways,” she said.
“Other areas across metropolitan Adelaide will also be targeted to ensure compliance with general waste transport provisions of the Environment Protection (Waste to Resources) Policy 2010,” she said.
The SA EPA has encouraged anyone who sees transporters failing to cover their load while travelling, to call the EPA Hotline on 08 8204 2004.