Cavan workshops face penalties over paint compliance
Vehicle refinishers must hold valid certification or risk fines and imprisonment under regulations governing their trade. Operators must obtain an approved assessor’s report before applying to the county council, while suppliers of non-compliant products also face enforcement.
Vehicle refinishing operators in Cavan must hold a valid certificate of compliance where required, with uncertified work potentially leading to a fine of €5,000, up to six months’ imprisonment, or both.
Refinishing activities and paints are governed by the European Union (Paints, Varnishes, Vehicle Refinishing Products and Activities) Regulations 2012, S.I. No. 564 of 2012. Local authorities issue compliance certificates for periods of up to three years.
To obtain a certificate, an operator must first arrange for an approved assessor to review the operation and provide a compliant report. The report must then be submitted to Cavan County Council with a completed application form and the relevant fee for assessment.
A new application costs €70, while renewal costs €50. If a certificate is not renewed before it expires, the operator must apply for a new one. Operators carrying out activities that require certification without a valid certificate should arrange an inspection immediately.
Authorised persons may seize prohibited refinishing products, and the person from whom they are seized is liable for disposal costs. Suppliers who provide non-compliant paint are also committing an offence. The Environmental Protection Agency and Cavan County Council will continue enforcement activities.
For further information, contact the council’s Environment Section on 049 437 8486 or at [email protected].