Ten companies fined in oil spill crackdown

The companies, all based in Louisiana and operating large oil storage facilities, were inspected in May 2009.

America’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered a variety of violations including unqualified staff, lack of safety plans and containment bypass valves not closed.

Details of the fines were released this week by the EPA:

Griffin Crane and Steel Service, of Pearl River, fined $1,750.

Wilco Marsh Buggies & Draglines, of Harvey, fined $1,500.

Kajun Truck Plaza, of Golden Meadow, fined $1,500.

Kajun Sportsman, of Golden Meadow, fined $1,450.

Chef Harbor, of New Orleans, fined $1,000.

American Vacuum, of Morgan City, fined $900.

Parish Concrete, of Mandeville, fined $900.

C&M Bayou Fuel Dock, of Lafitte fined $850.

Ocean Marine Contractors, of Morgan City, fined $800.

Professional Construction Services, of New Orleans, fined $700.

As part of the fine the companies have provided proof to the EPA that all deficiencies have been corrected.

Luke Walsh