Firestone Complete Auto Care has been ordered to pay $3.94 million for hazardous materials violations. The California based company was the subject of a six-year long investigation spanning 27 jurisdictions. The investigation began with a surprise inspection in 2016.
During that inspection, authorities discovered solvents, automotive fluids, aerosols, and partially filled containers of batteries and unspecified electronic components that had been disposed of in garbage containers. The only safe way to dispose of these materials is through specialized hazardous waste disposal services. Authorities also discovered customer records had been thrown away uncut and unread which poses a threat of invasion of privacy.
Following the settlement Firestone issued a statement saying “The investigation highlighted potential gaps in the implementation of our policies regarding the management and disposal of hazardous waste and customer information. We have increased teammate training activities and resources in our California stores. We have hired a dedicated California Compliance Officer. We are in full compliance with our own internal standards as well as relevant regulatory agencies.”
Firestone pays $4 million to settle Hazmat, files complaints
