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If you read nothing else it's important that you read this

If you are a manufacturer or processor, or owner or operator of a small factory you should:

• Be aware of your environmental responsibilities and ensure that all your staff and contractors are informed about your company's commitment to protecting the environment. (see Environmental Legislation)
• Do not hose or sweep waste material, litter, leaves or any other matter into gutters or drains. Keep the outside areas of your business free of litter, waste materials and other pollutants that could contaminate the stormwater system. By doing this you will help reduce pollution in our waterways. (Refer to Stormwater Management and Planning and General Information)
• Check with your local sewerage utility for their requirements in relation to trade wastewater treatment and discharge before you discharge any wastewater to the sewer. (Refer to Trade Wastewater)
• Carry out a waste audit to identify any materials you are wasting, and how you could substitute materials or reduce, reuse or recycle the wastes your processes are creating. (Refer to Waste Management)
• Investigate alternative materials or processes you could use that may be less environmentally damaging, result in your product having less impact on the environment and save you money.
• Make sure that all your products and raw materials are stored away from stormwater drains and in an area that will contain any spills or leaks. Know that there are special requirements for the storage of dangerous goods. Have in place spill prevention and clean-up procedures. (Refer to Hazardous Materials)
• Reduce your impact on air quality by minimising and controlling fumes, vapours and odours from materials that you use or produce in your processing or manufacturing procedures. You can do this by regularly maintaining air filtering and control devices and also by substituting products with less air-damaging materials. (Refer to Air Quality Management)
• Reduce your energy and water use by first carrying out an energy and water audit. You may be able to reuse some of your wastewater in your processes. Also energy efficient lighting and thermostats can make a difference. (Refer to Energy and Water Use)
• Reduce noise coming from your premises. Internal noise can be a health issue for your staff, while external noise can be a significant annoyance, and cause for complaint by neighbours. (Refer to Noise Management).
• Inform your staff, suppliers and customers about your commitment to protecting and caring for the environment. (See Planning and General Information).
• Be aware that most pollution offences carry penalities of up to $1 million (plus a daily penalty up to $120,000 for continuing offences) for companies, or $250,000 (plus a daily penalty up to $60,000 for continuing offences) for individuals. (Refer to Environmental Legislation)
• Be aware that even very minor breaches of environmental laws can result in on-the-spot fines of $1500 for companies and $750 for individuals.