(This headline on this article has been corrected since the story was first posted to accurately reflect the state’s action against Environix.)
LYNNWOOD —— A company that specializes in checking homes and businesses for environmental problems had some cleaning up of its own to do.
Investigators from the state Department of Ecology and city of Lynnwood checked into a claim that employees of Environix, 20728 56th Ave. W., had dumped paint-laden wastewater directly into a storm drain instead of a toilet or sink.
“We required them to have a lab do a study of how toxic their material is,” Ecology department spokesman Larry Altose said.
He said the department received an anonymous written report April 12 claiming employees had dumped hazardous chemicals and paint into storm drains.
State law prohibits putting wastewater into storm drains, which lead to culverts that divert rainwater into streams and lakes.
That’s because wastewater is only treated within the sewer system, which is connected to toilets and sinks.
Lynnwood officials notified Environix of the violation after investigating the company, said Jared Bond, the city’s surface water manager.
“Employees have continually disregarded proper procedure,” he said.
Environix, which also has offices in Portland and Philadelphia, specializes in detecting and cleaning mold and conducting air quality analyses.
Lynnwood ordered the company to post signs reminding employees not to dump wastewater into the storm drain. Environix also agreed to place a berm — or barrier — next to the storm drain to prevent spilled materials from entering nearby Scriber Creek.
Environix also had to update its procedures for handling waste.
The company’s owner, James Mallory, said Thursday Environix is complying with the orders.
Mallory said the tip came from a disgruntled former employee. He admitted, however, that employees had at times incorrectly disposed of wastewater.
“It’s been helpful having the Department of Ecology write up some guidelines for us,” he said.
Oscar Halpert: 425-339-3429, ohalpert@heraldnet.com
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