East Bay Brass Foundry in Richmond, CA, has agreed to pay a $15,000 fine to settle its violations of federal hazardous-waste handling laws, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

EPA officials listed a series of violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act after a March 2004 inspection. RCRA is the federal code that governs hazardous waste handling, storage, and disposal.

EPA states East Bay Brass Foundry: failed to make a hazardous waste determination; failed to obtain a permit or interim status for storage of hazardous waste; and failed to ensure personnel are thoroughly familiar with waste handling procedures.

Jeff Scott, director of Waste Division in EPA's San Francisco regional office, stated: "Companies that handle toxic wastes need to manage them properly to ensure public safety and protect the environment. The EPA will continue to strictly enforce all regulations governing facilities who generate and manage hazardous waste."

East Bay Brass Foundry specializes in brass, aluminum, and some lead castings.