The California Air Resources Board fined Robertson’s Ready Mix $65,700 in May for diesel truck emissions violations during 2007 and 2008 at its Southern California facilities, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange and San Diego counties. CARB says an investigation showed that the ready-mix company failed to inspect its heavy-duty vehicle fleet properly.
“Routine inspections guarantee that vehicles stay clean, meet California’s air quality standards and protect public health,” says CARB Chairman Mary Nichols. “Failing to perform these inspections can lead to an increase in air pollution.” The law requires annual smoke tests for diesel fleets and, in conjunction with CARB’s roadside smoke inspection program, ensures that all vehicles are properly maintained, tamper-free and free from excessive smoke emissions.
Robertson’s Ready Mix is required to:
Robertson’s Ready Mix will pay $65,700 in penalties: $49,275 will go to the California Air Pollution Control Fund for funding projects and research to improve California’s air quality; the Peralta Community College District will receive $8,212.50 to fund emissions education classes conducted by participating California community colleges; and the remaining $8,212.50 will go to the California Pollution Control Financing Authority, which guarantees loans to offroad vehicle fleets that need to buy exhaust retrofits to comply with state regulations.
