The settlement of a civil law enforcement action against Glovis America, Inc. (Glovis). Glovis provides import logistics services for automobile manufacturers utilizing the Port of Hueneme to import their vehicles.
On January 27, 2016, representatives of the Del Norte Recycling Center in Oxnard discovered that approximately 75 automobile seatbelt pre-tensioners containing the toxic material sodium azide had been improperly disposed into the facility. Investigation by the Ventura County Environmental Health Division and the Ventura County District Attorney’s Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit revealed the pre-tensioners originated from Glovis’ Port Hueneme facility.
The settlement announced today resolves allegations that Glovis violated environmental protection laws by failing to label, improperly storing, and improperly disposing of hazardous waste. The settlement further resolves allegations that Glovis did not properly file a hazardous materials business plan for its facility in the Port of Hueneme and committed acts of unfair competition by failing to follow these procedures.
Under the agreed-upon judgment, the court ordered Glovis to comply with California environmental laws prohibiting unauthorized disposal of hazardous waste and to develop appropriate procedures to prevent the release of such waste. Glovis must also develop a training program for its employees regarding hazardous waste management. Under the terms of the settlement, Glovis will pay $91,152.96 in restitution, cost-recovery, and civil penalties, including $67,500 to the District Attorney’s Office, $15,000 to the California Toxic Substances Control Account General Fund, and $8,652.96 to the Ventura County Environmental Health Division. Glovis is also permanently enjoined from committing similar violations in the future.
The Port Hueneme Statement on the Settlement:
The Port of Hueneme applauds Glovis America Inc. for complying with the Ventura County Environmental Health Division and agreeing to settle with the District Attorney’s Office through $91,152.96. in restitution. Â
As a Public Agency that believes in environmental stewardship, The Port is cognizant of the challenges that occur when customers don’t have the appropriate facilities to conduct business offsite. Glovis America supports over 160 local jobs and will continue to provide economic opportunities for the people of Ventura County and an agreement is a sign of good faith for all involved parties. Â
The Port will continue to work hand in hand with customers to ensure the Port is as green as possible and assure customers and Ventura County consumers continue to have access to imported goods through environmentally responsible business practices. Â Glovis America is also a partner in an initiative to reduce air pollution and protect endangered whales through voluntary speed reduction ( VSR) zones in the Santa Barbara Channel near Ventura County.
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