The Fairborn Production Paint Stripping (PPS) facility is in the early stages of a many months long upgrade project, beginning with removing outdated chemicals, disposing of hazardous waste, and recycling reusable materials to create a safer and more streamlined work environment.
“The facility had accumulated a variety of chemicals that were no longer in use. Our goal is to properly dispose of these materials while maximizing recycling opportunities,” said Environmental Project Manager Sam Troutman, who is leading the waste disposal efforts.
The cleanup effort is focused on eliminating chemicals that are no longer applicable to Fairborn’s operations. “We are working to remove any accidental exposure risks, leaks, spills, and contamination issues,” said District Manager Bo Doeg. “This effort will also support compliance with permitting and insurance requirements, leading to long-term cost savings.”
A key aspect of the initiative is the recycling of materials such as bulk containers (IBCs and totes). Many of these can be sent to permitted recyclers at no cost, provided they contain minimal residual material. Hazardous waste is also being packaged for safe transport, with careful labeling and profiling to meet regulatory standards. Additionally, the project emphasizes thorough inventory management, ensuring that only necessary chemicals remain on-site while outdated materials are safely disposed of.
“Basically we’re trying to clear house of any clutter in advance of a major capital investment we’re making into Fairborn,” said General Manager Kyle Jackson. “So, we’re clearing up old leftover stuff, and making sure we have the standards in place to move forward. That’s all step one on the path towards a major overhaul of the plant.”
Fairborn’s new plant manager, David Weaver, supports the initiative, noting that past process changes left behind a collection of unused chemicals. “We ended up with a number of chemicals we don’t need and won’t use in the future. This project is about clearing those out and making better use of our space,” Weaver said. The project team is working with transporters to schedule waste pickups and ensure everything is labeled and packaged correctly.
This cleanup marks a significant early step forward for the Fairborn PPS facility, improving compliance, safety, and efficiency. “We’re making great progress,” Troutman said. “This effort is about more than just getting rid of waste—it’s about setting the facility up for long-term success.” By removing these outdated materials, the facility can operate more efficiently while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. Employees will also benefit from a cleaner and more organized workspace, reducing potential workplace hazards.
With continued coordination and teamwork, Fairborn PPS is on track to complete this initiative efficiently, paving the way for a safer and more compliant operation. The leadership team is committed to maintaining these standards and preventing future waste buildup through proactive monitoring and improved chemical management practices. Ultimately, this project represents a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility and workplace safety, setting an example for similar facilities within the industry.