InfraBuild has been fined a second time within a week for industrial pollution at its Hunter-based operations.
The Environment Protection Authority has fined Onesteel Recycling Pty Limited (operating as Infrabuild) $15,000 for failing to minimise dust emissions at its Hexham recycling plant.
Officers who inspected the Sparke Street facility in June found dust suppression measures were insufficient during scrap metal transfers from a conveyor onto a metal stockpile and from a front loader to a truck.
EPA acting director of regulatory operations David Gathercole said uncontrolled dust emissions were harmful to human health and the environment.
"In addition to observations during the site inspection, the EPA also has CCTV evidence provided by a neighbouring property, allegedly showing dust emissions emanating from the InfraBuild facility," he said.
"Ongoing dust emissions have the potential to impact on the vegetation in the surrounding environment, particularly the Hunter Wetlands.
"Uncontrolled dust emissions can also potentially cause respiratory and cardiovascular health problems for the community."
InfraBuild's Mayfield wire plant was fined $45,000 this week for the incorrect storage of hazardous and corrosive chemicals.
A company spokesman said the EPA's latest decision was under review.
"InfraBuild Recycling takes great pride in our people and our operations in Hexham and will continue to work transparently with the EPA and others, to ensure our ongoing obligations are met," he said.
Infrabuild is proposing to install a fence along the property boundary to help control and prevent dust migration from the site.
Penalty notices are one of a number of tools the EPA can use to achieve environmental compliance including formal warnings, official cautions, licence conditions, notices and directions and prosecutions.
