## California regulators can't keep up with scrap yards
_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_
Scrap metal companies have proliferated in California, in response to rising global prices for the material. However, a new report has found that regulators have struggled to keep up with the rapidly growing industry, and the situation has created a threat to public health.
"Though they commonly handle hazardous materials, and sometimes sit in residential neighborhoods, the firms are subject to inconsistent oversight by a patchwork of agencies," reads [an investigative piece][1] by the _Los Angeles Times_, on the problems posed by metal recycling facilities. "Many are rarely, if ever, inspected."
According to the article, during the last three years there have been at least 23 fires and explosions at scrap metal facilities in California. Additionally, five people have died in workplace accidents at the facilities, and 35 people have suffered serious injuries. During the same period, according to the report, at least 20 other people, including firefighters and people living near the facilities, have required medical treatment for burns, poisonous gas exposure or smoke inhalation caused by accidents.
The article concludes that the patchwork of agencies that oversees the industry -- which ranges from local fire departments, regional water boards, the state Department of Toxic Substances Control and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -- haven't coordinated enough to properly monitor the growing industry. The article also found that many scrap metal yards didn't operate with the proper permits and ignore regulations, according to the article.
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[1]: http://articles.latimes.com/2012/aug/11/local/la-me-recycle-20120812
[2]: http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRC2012Banner.jpg (RRC 2012 Banner)
[3]: http://www.rrconference.com/
[4]: http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news081712.html
URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3025
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