Smiths’ property portfolio includes a number of old sites
and long-standing factories. Where we identify contamination
of land or groundwater, we fulfil our obligation for clean-up.
Spills and leakages of stored hazardous substances such as fuel
oil and chemicals are minimised through engineering controls
such as the use of secondary containment techniques and providing
awareness training for employees. Five spills, totalling an estimated
900 litres, were reported in 2003. Corrective action was instigated
in each case and no enforcement action followed.
Spills Outside Secondary Containment
| |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
Number
of spills > 5 litres outside
secondary containment |
17 |
6 |
5 |
| Total
volume of spills (litres) |
290 |
150 |
900 |
The environmental implications of acquisitions and divestments
are carefully considered and where appropriate, further due diligence
is undertaken in conjunction with environmental consultants and
our legal advisers. |
