BALTIMORE (July 8, 2013) – The Maryland Department of the Environment today announced major enforcement actions in recent months for alleged violations of State and federal environmental laws to protect public health and our land, air, water and wetlands resources.
Radiation Machines Division
The following action is in response to alleged violations of Maryland regulations for the control of ionizing radiation from use of radiation (x-ray) machines.
CHESAPEAKE POTOMAC REGIONAL CANCER CENTER – ST. MARY’S COUNTY: On April 15, 2014, Chesapeake Potomac Regional Cancer Center agreed to settle for $10,000 the Department’s claims for a misadministration of radiation during cancer treatment of a patient.
Water Pollution Enforcement Actions
State law prohibits the discharge of any pollutant into waters of the State, unless such discharge is in compliance with the terms, conditions, and requirements of a discharge permit. A person must hold a discharge permit issued by MDE before the person may construct, install, modify, extend, alter or operate any facility or disposal system or any other outlet or establishment if its operation could cause or increase the discharge of pollutants into waters of the State.
GARNET OF MARYLAND, INC. – CALVERT COUNTY: On May 1, 2014, MDE and Garnet of Maryland, Inc., executed a Settlement Agreement and Penalty to resolve alleged discharge permit violations from February 2012 through February 2013 at the Appeal Landfill and transfer station in Lusby. A $10,000 penalty was assessed. The alleged violations have been corrected.
“The Maryland Department of the Environment's top priority is to protect public health and our environment. A consistent baseline of enforcement action prevents further pollution and risks to public health,” said MDE Secretary Robert M. Summers. “The majority of Maryland businesses and citizens comply with environmental laws. A strong and fair enforcement program protects their investment in environmental protection and ensures that those who choose to ignore their responsibilities do not impact the environment, health and quality of life of all Maryland residents.”