We have periodically posted on the risks posed by improper mananagement of photo-processing and spent x-ray developing solutions at commercial and retail properties. Phase 1 reports often overlook how these chemicals are managed and discharged. A settlement between CVS and the CT DEP last week illustrates the importance of this issue.
CVS agreed to pay $268,900 and implement major improvements in its environmental practices. The CT DEP said that CVS failed to obtain permits for discharging photographic processing chemicals, pharmaceuticals and wastewater into on-site septic systems and sewers. One store lacked the proper maintenance records for the silver recovery systems associated with photo-processing machines, the department said.
The department found that 19 CVS locations were discharging photo-processing wastewaters without a permit in the last three years, 101 stores were not monitoring the influent and effluent of the silver recovery systems and 20 stores disposed of wastewater that violated the permitting limit for silver effluent.
Under the settlement, CVS agreed to make changes to its business practices, including implementing standard procedures for disposing of wastewater and obtaining the proper permits, posting workplace signage and training staff to dispose of the materials properly.
CVS also agreed to stop discharging silver-bearing photo-processing wastewater at its Connecticut stores and to conduct regular statewide audits.
CT DEP announcement is at: http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?Q=468994&A=3847
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