Fine for a firm

US jet engine and automobile-part manufacturer, United Technologies Corp, has been fined $5.3 million for its carelessness in handling and discharging hazardous wastes in recent years. The wastes contained solvents, paint thinners and sludge, among other toxic chemicals.

Seven plants of the firm's Pratt & Whitney jet engine unit and several other company facilities in Connecticut were found to be violating pollution norms. US government agencies say the violations included storing hazardous wastes without a permit and discharging pollutants without a permit or above permitted levels.

Company chairperson Robert F Daniell said, "The attitudes and practices that led to these violations are unacceptable, and we have moved aggressively to change them." The company also agreed to extensive audits of its environmental practices through 1999.