Planning and General Information
Location of foundries
Complaints about noise, fumes, odour and dust can arise when foundries and residential or commercial areas are too close to each other. These problems are usually caused or exacerbated by poor site selection or rezoning which allow residential premises to encroach on existing foundry operations and result in
land use conflicts.
Councils and foundry operators should be aware of this and take opportunities when they arise to create or re-establish suitable buffer zones between these activities and residential zones.
Foundry managers are encouraged to lodge objections to development applications before council which will impinge on any existing buffer zones.
Environment management systems and plans
An environment management system can include:
- an environment management program or plan for your business
- a written environmental policy, and
- a regular environmental review process.
It should demonstrate a commitment by management and employees to meet and
maintain standards set out in the plan.
Prepare a maintenance plan or schedule for your business and follow it every day. Activities should include:
- checking stormwater drains
- checking stored goods for leaks
- checking extraction system performance
- checking equipment noise
- checking firefighting equipment.
Involve employees in developing environmental management procedures. If they contribute to it, they are more likely to follow it. The procedures can form the basis for your premises' environmental plan.
Employee training
Train your employees in the environmental aspects of their work and in the methods and procedures outlined in this guide. New employees should be given induction training which includes education about the site and their environmental responsibilities for each part of the operation.
Show them:
- where the stormwater drains are
- how to clean up a spill
- how and where to place separated wastes.
Further Information
- Your local council
- DECC Environment Pollution Line, Tel: 131 555
Page last updated: 27 February 2011
