BUSINESSES could face a heavy fine if they do not use properly authorised forms or people to dispose of their waste, the Environment Agency has warned.

"Failure to take all reasonable steps to ensure that it is being disposed of correctly is an offence which can lead to a substantial fine," said environmental protection officer Michael Morris.

The warning follows a court case in which a man admitted failing to make sure his company's waste was discharged properly.

Adam Cale of Secure Fabrications, Spring Lane Industrial Estate in Malvern, was fined £3,000 and ordered to pay £1,000 expenses by magistrates at Droitwich .

Between 750 and 900 part-used tins of car paint were found illegally deposited in four drums on Offerton Lane in Warndon, Worcester. Paint was on the ground around the drums and in the water of a roadside ditch, the court was told.

"Substances, including car paint, can cause considerable harm to the environment and human health if they are not disposed of properly," said Mr Morris, speaking after the case.

The solvents in the paint could have run into watercourses if it had rained, Mr Morris said.

More information about businesses' obligation in waste disposal is available from Hereford Chamber of Commerce on 0800 104010 or at the Environmental Agency website on www.netregs.environment-agency.gov.uk