Opinion ID: 1176043
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: The Contamination and the Remedial Action Order

Text: The underlying facts are well summarized in the Court of Appeal's opinion. From 1969 until May 1984, plaintiff Aydin Corporation (Aydin) operated a research and manufacturing complex in Palo Alto at which it fabricated, assembled, and repaired electrical transformers. These operations required the use of a variety of noxious chemicals, oils, solvents, and waste materials. Some of these fluids were stored in metal tanks buried underground; other liquids were kept aboveground in 55-gallon metal drums. The drums and material pumped out of the tanks were turned over to a disposal company. In 1980, Aydin discovered polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) ground soil contamination and attempted to correct it. In July 1981, Aydin discovered the PCB contamination had recurred, and on a much larger scale. PCB contamination was found in the area of the underground tanks. There was also solvent contamination of the groundwater beneath the site. The tanks, removed in 1986, contained numerous holes. Aydin notified the California Department of Health Services, which promulgated a remedial action order requiring Aydin to undertake an extensive program of studies, monitoring, and cleanup efforts.