ALOR SETAR: The Environment Department (DOE) has issued a stop-work order against a rubber glove factory after it was found to be releasing untreated effluents into public drains.
Kedah DOE director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said at about 5pm on Thursday, her team observed blue-coloured effluents flowing through the public drainage system in the Mergong area.
“Our investigator identified the source – a factory releasing blue-coloured effluents directly into public drains, contaminating a 70m stretch.
“We gathered samples and sent them for analysis.
“Subsequent investigation confirmed that the blue effluent was from the use of blue pigments in the manufacturing process and was being discharged untreated,” she said in a statement to Bernama yesterday.
She added that the factory was served with a stop-work order.
Sharifah Zakiah said follow-up inspections would be conducted to confirm the effectiveness of the corrective measures before the factory can resume operations.
“For complaints, the public can contact the toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727 or visit http://eaduan.gov.my,” she said.
